- Must visit
Acropolis Museum
Athens’ premier archaeological museum, displaying finds from the Acropolis with excellent modern galleries and views of the Parthenon. A top priority for first-time visitors.
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$61
Fastest journey
7 h 25 m
Average duration
8 h 53 m
Ferries per day
4
Distance
321 km
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Heraklion to Athens is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Heraklion to Athens will cost around $61 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Of the 4 ferries that leave Heraklion for Athens on Sat, Jun 20, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct ferries cover the 321 km distance in an average of 8 h 53 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 7 h 25 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 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.
NISSOS RODOS
KNOSSOS PALACE
ELYROS
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1
NISSOS RODOS
ELYROS
KNOSSOS PALACEOmio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Heraklion to Athens among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 54m. 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 $40, and a flight costs an average of $31.
Distance: 173 nautical miles (321 km)
Most popular Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price |
9h 44m Average total duration 8h 44m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration Fastest 54m 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 Heraklion to Athens:
A ferry is $45 (€37) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Heraklion to Athens costing on average $92 (€76).
Other travel options to Athens take longer:
Ferry takes on average 8h 44m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 7h25 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 16h55 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 9h55 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 9h40 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 13h15 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 9h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
The table below shows live departures for Heraklion to Athens ferries for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1 | 8:00 AM Heraklion Port | 7h25 | 3:25 PM Port of Piraeus | 0 transfersDirect | |
ELYROS | 9:00 PM Port of Souda | 9h20 | 6:20 AM Port of Piraeus | 0 transfersDirect | |
NISSOS RODOS | 9:00 PM Heraklion Port | 9h15 | 6:15 AM Port of Piraeus | 0 transfersDirect | |
KNOSSOS PALACE | 9:00 PM Heraklion Port | 9h30 | 6:30 AM Port of Piraeus | 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 Heraklion to Athens run on average 5 times per day, taking around 8h 44m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $40 (€33) but you can travel from only $31 (€26) by flight.
There are 5 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 01:00, the last at 23:45. The fastest ferry covers the 173 nautical miles (321 km) distance in 7h 50m. There are 31 sailings per week. Ferries from Heraklion to Athens are available to foot passengers.





Distance 173 nautical miles (321 km) |
Average sailing duration 8h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€33) |
Ferries per day 5 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 31 |
Fastest ferry 7h 50m |
First ferry 1:00 AM |
Last ferry 11:45 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 6 days |
Discover the best of Athens — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Athens trip today.
Athens’ premier archaeological museum, displaying finds from the Acropolis with excellent modern galleries and views of the Parthenon. A top priority for first-time visitors.
Greece’s largest archaeological museum, famous for Mycenaean gold, classical sculpture, and major masterpieces from across the country.
Highly regarded museum with elegant displays of Cycladic figurines and ancient Greek art, popular with both locals and visitors.
Athens’ historic old quarter with neoclassical lanes, small squares, and easy access to major sights. A classic area for walking and atmosphere.
Lively central square known for city energy, flea-market streets, and postcard views toward the Acropolis.
Top city viewpoint with sweeping panoramas, especially popular for sunset and skyline photos.
A classic baked dish of layered eggplant, potato, minced meat, and béchamel. It is one of the most iconic Greek comfort foods served in tavernas across Athens.
Grilled skewered meat, usually pork or chicken, often served with pita, onions, and tomatoes. It is a staple Athenian street food and a must-try for visitors.
A savory pie filled with spinach, herbs, and feta cheese in flaky phyllo pastry. It is a popular everyday snack and traditional bakery item in Athens.
A famous deli-restaurant in central Athens known for cured meats, cheeses, meze, and a lively modern taverna atmosphere blending tradition with contemporary style.
An established and highly regarded central Athens venue for Greek meze, regional products, and casual dining with strong local character.
A historic traditional taverna known for classic Greek dishes, house wine, and old Athens charm. It is especially popular for an authentic local dining experience.
Moderate for Europe. Budget eats are affordable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is often included or modest. Round up in cafes and taxis. In restaurants, leave 5-10% for good service; more only for excellent service.
Official public transport app
Port Of Piraeus, Athens -> Syntagma Square, Athens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heraklion 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.

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