- Must visit
Acropolis Museum
World-class museum for Acropolis finds, with superb archaic sculptures and Parthenon marbles displayed in a striking modern building.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Crete (Island) to Athens
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- $53
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- $80
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 7 h 50 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 8 h 40 m
- Ferries on Nov 02
- 2
- Distance
- 320 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Crete (Island) to Athens is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Crete (Island) to Athens will cost around $80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast ferries
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 2 ferries from Crete (Island) to Athens, including 2 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct ferries cover the 320 km distance in an average of 8 h 40 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 7 h 50 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest ferries will take 9 h 30 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.
KYDON PALACE9:00 PM 9h30 Heraklion Port 6:30 AM Port of Piraeus $53 1 One-way 0 transfers
EUROCHAMPION JET8:00 AM 7h50 Heraklion Port 3:50 PM Port of Piraeus $107 1 One-way 0 transfers
- EUROCHAMPION JET
8:00 AM 7h50 Heraklion Port 3:50 PM Port of Piraeus $107 1 One-way 0 transfers - KYDON PALACE
9:00 PM 9h30 Heraklion Port 6:30 AM Port of Piraeus $53 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Crete (Island) to Athens
GreeceGreece
Ferries from Crete (Island) to Athens run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 24m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $27 (€23) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by flight.
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 6h 30m. There are 17 sailings per week. Ferries from Crete (Island) to Athens are available to foot passengers.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $24 (€20)
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 172 nautical miles (320 km) |
Average sailing duration 9h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€23) |
Ferries per day 5 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 17 |
Fastest ferry 6h 30m |
First ferry 12:20 AM |
Last ferry 11:45 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $24 (€20)
Frequently asked questions about your Crete (Island) to Athens trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Crete (Island) to Athens.
Cheap ferry tickets from Crete (Island) to Athens can start from as little as $27 (€23) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Crete (Island) to Athens is $64 (€54) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest ferry from Crete (Island) to Athens leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Crete (Island) to Athens leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct ferries a day from Crete (Island) to Athens with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Crete (Island) to Athens Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 9h15 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 7h50 | Sailing Days Mon, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 14h30 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 9h55 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 8h45 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 9h15 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 11h00 | Sailing Days Thu |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Crete (Island) to Athens ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Crete (Island) to Athens ferries for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 BLUE STAR CHIOS | 6:40 PM Sitia | 14h30 | 9:10 AM Port of Piraeus | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FESTOS PALACE | 9:00 PM Heraklion Port | 9h30 | 6:30 AM Port of Piraeus | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, November 2 | |||||
| EUROCHAMPION JET | 8:00 AM Heraklion Port | 7h50 | 3:50 PM Port of Piraeus | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Crete (Island) to Athens ferries with Omio?
Blue Star Ferries as well as Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets offer ferries services from Crete (Island) to Athens.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Crete (Island) to Athens.
Why book with Omio vs Blue Star Ferries?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Blue Star Ferries, but also compare tickets for the likes of Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets to find the best option for your trip from Crete (Island) to Athens.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Blue Star Ferries with all available travel options, which are ferry and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Crete (Island) to Athens.
Why book with Omio over Ferryhopper, Directferries or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets to find the best option for your trip from Crete (Island) to Athens.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including ferry and flight to find the ideal travel option from Crete (Island) to Athens.
Offers and deals from Crete (Island) to Athens
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Crete (Island) to Athens and choose the solutions that best suit your needs. Below, you will find a selection of the most popular offers
Up to 30% off
30% off with Seajets
SeaJets helps you explore Greek islands including:
Sporades archipelago: 20% off your 2024 return tickets on superfast ferries from mainland Greece to Alonissos, Skopelos and Skiathos - as well as on many inter-island crossings. Book by 15th of June 2024.
Discover Crete: Foot passengers can get 30% off on their 2024 return tickets between Athens (Piraeus) and Chania. Valid until further notice.
Ferry operators: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) from Crete (Island) to AthensYou can travel by ferry between Crete (Island) to Athens with Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) for as low as $24 (€20). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Blue Star Ferries
About
Blue Star Ferries is a Greek ferry company that operates a fleet of ferries that provide transportation services for passengers and vehicles across the Aegean Sea and the Adriatic Sea. The company was founded in 1965 and is based in Piraeus, Greece. Blue Star Ferries operates ferry services between the Greek mainland and the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands, as well as between the Greek mainland and Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Blue Star Ferries Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Blue Star Ferries Price
$37 (€31)
Blue Star Ferries frequency
3 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure with varying refund rates
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafes, and bars available serving meals and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas and facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in designated areas. Must be in carriers or leashed. Not allowed in restaurants.
Cabin reservation
Economy cabins to luxury suites available. Must be booked in advance
Car on board
Seajets
About
Seajets is a Greek ferry company that operates a fleet of high-speed catamaran ferries that provide transportation services for passengers and vehicles across the Aegean Sea. The company was founded in 2000 and is based in Piraeus, Greece. Seajets operates ferry services between the Greek mainland and the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands. They offer frequent daily departures and a wide range of routes, making it a convenient and efficient way to travel between the islands.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Seajets Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest Seajets Price
$27 (€23)
Seajets frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Extra luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours before departure with fees
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria and bar available with snacks and beverages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled
Cabin reservation
Basic cabins available on longer routes
Car on board
Minoan Lines (Greece domestic)
About
Minoan Lines, established in 1972 in Greece, is a prominent ferry operator known for connecting various Greek islands and mainland destinations. Their fleet comprises modern vessels, including the HSC Santorini Palace and the Cruise Europa, offering different classes such as Economy, Business, and VIP. Onboard amenities include restaurants, bars, shops, and comfortable lounges, ensuring a pleasant journey. Passengers can choose from various ticket types, including standard seats, private cabins, and vehicle transport options. Minoan Lines' top routes include Heraklion to Piraeus, Santorini to Heraklion, and Piraeus to Chania, making it a preferred choice for travelers exploring Greece's picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) Price
$37 (€31)
Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 14 days before departure for full refund, 7-13 days 75% refund, 4-6 days 50% refund, less than 4 days no refund
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafeterias, and bars available
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled. Not allowed in restaurants or indoor accommodation areas.
Cabin reservation
Cabins available in various categories (internal, external, luxury)
Car on board
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Crete (Island) and Athens
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Crete (Island) to Athens with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic)
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Crete (Island) to Athens is possible with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Crete (Island) to Athens is possible with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets. We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot, but please check specific times for each route. If you need to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Crete (Island) to Athens, you can count on Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets for the best way to get you to Athens. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Crete (Island) and Athens and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
Complete guide to Athens
Things to do in Athens
Discover the best of Athens — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Athens trip today.
- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Greece’s premier archaeology museum, spanning prehistory to late antiquity. Essential for masterpieces from across the country.
- Recommended
Museum of Cycladic Art
Outstanding museum of Cycladic art and ancient Greek culture. Known for elegant figurines and thoughtful contemporary presentation.
- Must visit
Plaka
Athens’ oldest neighborhood charms with neoclassical houses, lanes, and easy access to major ancient sites and traditional atmosphere.
- Must visit
Monastiraki Square
Busy square and market district known for street life, shopping, and strong transport links. Ideal for feeling the city’s energy.
- Must visit
Syntagma Square
Central ceremonial square before Parliament. A practical hub for visitors and a prime place to watch the guard-changing ritual.
Moussaka
Moussaka is a baked casserole of eggplant, minced meat, potato, and béchamel, iconic in Greek home cooking and tavern menus.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki is grilled skewered pork or chicken, a classic Athens street food, usually served with pita, onions, and tzatziki.
- Vegetarian
Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a flaky pie filled with spinach, herbs, and feta, a beloved everyday snack found in bakeries across Athens.
Spondi
Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined modern Greek cuisine and Acropolis views in an elegant setting.
Klimataria
Long-standing Psiri taverna serving classic Greek dishes, live music, and a warm traditional atmosphere.
Varvakios
Historic central market taverna known for grilled meats and traditional meze in a lively, old Athens setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Europe; hotels in peak season rise, but dining and transit stay fairly reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round taxi fares up, and leave small change at cafes.
OASA Telematics
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- €4.10
To the city center
Port of Piraeus -> Syntagma Square
- Distance
- 10 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Validate paper tickets before boarding. Contactless bank cards are not accepted directly on Athens buses, trams, or metro for fare payment.
- Use the OASA Telematics app for live arrivals and route planning across metro, bus, and tram.
Plan your visit to Athens
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Athens.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Athens, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist sites, and markets. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, keep valuables secure, and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Ferry from Crete (Island) to Athens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Crete (Island) to Athens 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 Athens, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Crete (Island) and Athens including taking a ferry and flight.
popular ferry ports
Popular ports from Crete (Island) to Athens
Most Crete (Island) to Athens ferries use the Heraklion Port to Port of Piraeus port pair. Use this guide to compare Crete (Island) and Athens ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Crete
Arrival ports in Athens
Which Crete (Island) port do ferries to Athens leave from?
Ferries from Crete (Island) to Athens leave from Heraklion Port. The port is 19 miles (32 km) from Crete (Island) city centre at Leof. Nearchou, Iraklio 713 07, Greece.
Heraklion PortLeof. Nearchou, Iraklio 713 07, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Heraklion Port from Crete city centre
Heraklion Port is 32 km from Crete city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 15, 31 · 10m · $2 · every ~10 min
Shuttle7m · $3
Heraklion Port port facilities and services
Heraklion Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Kouzina EPE (0.3km), Paralia Seaside Restaurant (0.5km), Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa (0.6km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Heraklion Port.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heraklion Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heraklion Port.
SitiaKazantzaki 3, Sitia 723 00, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Sitia from Crete city centre
Sitia is 1 km from Crete city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3h 0m · $21
Shuttle2h 50m
Sitia port facilities and services
Sitia has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Inodion (0.3km), Mitsakakis (0.4km), Ziafeti (0.5km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sitia.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sitia: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sitia.
KissamosΑγαμέμνωνος 41, Kissamos 734 00, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Kissamos from Crete city centre
Kissamos is 3 km from Crete city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4h 20m · every ~3 min
Shuttle3h 10m
Kissamos port facilities and services
Kissamos has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pixida (0.3km), The Cellar Tavern (0.4km), Aretousa (0.5km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kissamos.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kissamos: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kissamos.
Which Athens port do ferries from Crete (Island) arrive at?
Ferries from Crete (Island) to Athens arrive at Port of Piraeus. Port of Piraeus is from Athens city centre.
Port of Piraeus10, Akti Miaouli str, Pireas 185 38, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Piraeus from Athens city centre
Metro Line 1, Piraeus Station
Port of Piraeus port facilities and services
Port of Piraeus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant (0.3km), To Steki tou Ilia (0.5km), Rouan Thai (0.7km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in passenger terminals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Port of Piraeus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Piraeus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Port of Piraeus.
More options for your journey from Crete (Island) to Athens
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Athens and Crete (Island)
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