- Must visit
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of Greece’s most important archaeological museums, especially for Minoan art and finds from Knossos and across Crete.
Cheapest price
$41
Average price
$74
Fastest journey
7 h 50 m
Average duration
9 h 9 m
Ferries per day
4
Distance
320 km
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.
Of the 4 ferries that leave Athens for Crete (Island) on Sun, May 31, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct ferries cover the 320 km distance in an average of 9 h 9 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 7 h 50 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest ferries will take 9 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
ASTERION II
FESTOS PALACE
KISSAMOS
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1
KISSAMOS
FESTOS PALACE
ASTERION IIOmio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Athens to Crete (Island) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the ferry is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $28, and a flight costs an average of $58.
Distance: 172 nautical miles (320 km)
Most popular Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $108 Average price |
9h 53m Average total duration 8h 53m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular ferry company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Athens to Crete (Island):
A ferry is $64 (€52) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Athens to Crete (Island) costing on average $108 (€87).
Other travel options to Crete (Island) take longer:
Ferry takes on average 8h 53m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 10h40 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 13h25 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 10h15 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 9h25 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 9h50 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 7h50 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 15h25 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Everyday |
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Crete (Island) ferries for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
KNOSSOS PALACE | 9:00 PM Port of Piraeus | 9h30 | 6:30 AM Heraklion Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
ARIADNE | 9:00 PM Port of Piraeus | 9h50 | 6:50 AM Heraklion Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
ELYROS | 10:00 PM Port of Piraeus | 9h25 | 7:25 AM Port of Souda | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare ferry and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.


Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island) run on average 5 times per day, taking around 8h 53m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $28 (€22) if you book in advance.
There are 5 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:20, the last at 23:45. The fastest ferry covers the 172 nautical miles (320 km) distance in 7h 55m. There are 33 sailings per week. Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island) are available to foot passengers.






Distance 172 nautical miles (320 km) |
Average sailing duration 8h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€22) |
Ferries per day 5 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 33 |
Fastest ferry 7h 55m |
First ferry 12:20 AM |
Last ferry 11:45 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Crete — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Crete trip today.
One of Greece’s most important archaeological museums, especially for Minoan art and finds from Knossos and across Crete.
Well-curated museum on Cretan history from early Christian times to the modern era, with notable El Greco works and wartime exhibits.
Modern museum presenting finds from the ancient city of Eleutherna, offering strong context for one of Crete’s key archaeological sites.
Atmospheric historic quarter with Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek layers, ideal for wandering lanes, harbor views, and photography.
Famous panoramic viewpoint over Balos, one of Crete’s most shared social media landscapes.
Protected coastal area known for shallow turquoise water and pale pink sand, extremely popular for scenic visits.
Traditional Cretan barley rusk topped with grated tomato, mizithra or feta, olive oil, and oregano. A signature island meze highlighting local olive oil and simple farm ingredients.
Small Cretan pastries filled with local cheese or wild greens, served baked or fried. They are a beloved snack and festive treat across the island.
A celebratory Cretan rice dish cooked in rich meat broth, traditionally served at weddings. It is creamy, comforting, and deeply tied to local customs.
Well-known Heraklion restaurant focused on traditional Cretan cuisine, local ingredients, and a refined rustic atmosphere. Good choice for dakos, slow-cooked meats, and classic island dishes.
Established restaurant in Rethymno Old Town with an elegant courtyard setting and a creative approach to Cretan and Greek cooking. Suitable for a more upscale meal.
Popular Chania Old Town venue in a historic building, known for Greek and Cretan dishes in a warm, atmospheric setting. A reliable option for traditional specialties.
Moderate overall. Tavernas and buses are good value, while beach resorts and peak-season hotels cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is appreciated. Leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff EUR 1-2 if helpful.
Official public transport app
Heraklion Port, Heraklion -> Heraklion Central Bus Station, Heraklion
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Crete (Island) by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Crete (Island), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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