Taking the ferry from Crete to Athens is not just a mode of transport, it’s a chance to unwind, enjoy sea views and travel in comfort. With overnight and daytime sailings available, this popular route combines flexibility with stunning Aegean beauty.
Secure your ferry tickets quickly and easily through go-ferry.com, the most reliable and user-friendly ferry booking platform.
Just follow these simple steps to book:
Select your departure (Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno or Sitia) and arrival port (Piraeus, Athens) along with your desired travel date
Choose from the available ferry operators, vessels, and schedules
Add the number of passengers and choose your onboard accommodation
Pick the fare that suits your needs
Enter passenger details and complete your payment
Receive your booking confirmation instantly by email
Why book with goFerry
Easy comparison of ferry schedules, companies and fares
Real-time availability and instant ticket confirmation
Secure payment system
Multilingual customer support
Trusted by thousands of travelers
Tips for your journey
Best time to travel:
May to September: Warm, sunny weather and more ferry options
October to April: Fewer crowds and cheaper fares
For summer: Book cabins in advance during peak season
For winter: Choose larger vessels for better sea stability
What to expect onboard:
Comfortable airline-style seats
Private cabins (ideal for overnight trips)
Restaurants and cafes
Lounges with TVs and Wi-Fi (on select ships)
Outdoor decks for sea views
Pet-friendly areas
Luggage, pets & vehicles:
Luggage: Typically one carry-on and one checked bag per passenger
Pets: Allowed with documentation and must remain in pet areas or cabins
Vehicles: All major operators accommodate cars, motorcycles and campervans (book early)
Check-in & boarding tips:
Arrive 1-2 hours early for boarding
Carry your ID or passport (EU or Schengen zone ID is sufficient)
Digital or printed e-ticket is required
Customs checks are not required for domestic travel
How far is Crete from Athens by ferry?
The distance ranges from 145 to 170 nautical miles, depending on the port of departure in Crete.
How long is the ferry trip from Crete to Athens?
The journey takes between 8 and 12 hours. Overnight ferries are common and convenient.
How frequent are the ferries?
Daily departures are available year-round, with more options in the summer season.
Which ferry companies operate this route?
Transportation options in Crete & Athens
Heraklion: The busiest port on the island, offering daily connections with Athens
Chania (Souda Port): Located in western Crete, ideal if you’re staying in Chania or Rethymno
Rethymno: Located in middle-western Crete, provides weekly connections to Piraeus
Sitia: In eastern Crete, with fewer connections. Check our website for up-to-date schedules
Waiting lounges
Ticket booths and ferry company offices
Cafes, taxis and transport options
Bus: KTEL buses connect major towns to Heraklion, Chania and Sitia ports
Taxi: Available throughout Crete and ideal for early departures. You can also book online
Car: Free and paid parking available near the ports
Private transfers: Pre-booked options, also from Heraklion or Chania airports
Arrival port in Athens (Piraeus)
Piraeus Port is Athens’ main harbor, located about 12 km from the city center. It offers:
Metro station (Line 1) for fast city access
Bus and taxi stands
Port gates clearly marked for each ferry line
Baggage handling and customer service points
Metro: Line 1 (Green Line) connects Piraeus with central Athens (Monastiraki, Omonia)
Bus: Express buses to Syntagma, the airport and suburbs
Taxi: Available at the terminal exits
Private transfer: A more luxurious way of getting around
Car rental: Book online if you want to explore Athens at your own pace
What to see & do in Crete & Athens
Top attractions in Crete
Knossos Palace (Heraklion): Step into Minoan history
Chania Old Town: Venetian charm and harbor views
Elafonissi Beach: Pink sand and crystal waters
Cretan cuisine: Try dakos, lamb with stamnagathi and local wine
Markets: Buy handmade goods and local olive oil
What to explore in Athens
Acropolis & Parthenon: Unmissable ancient wonders
Plaka & Monastiraki: Walk through history with shops and cafes
National Archaeological Museum: Marvel at Greek heritage
Local food: Souvlaki, moussaka and traditional Greek sweets
Mount Lycabettus: Panoramic views of the city
FAQs for your journey
Can I travel overnight on the ferry from Crete to Athens?
Yes, overnight sailings are common and ideal for travelers who prefer to sleep during the journey.
Do I need to print my ticket?
Most companies accept digital tickets on smartphones, but printing is recommended for backup.
Are there cabins for families?
Yes, cabins with multiple beds are available—perfect for families or groups.
Can I take my pet onboard?
Yes, pets are welcome but must be booked in designated areas or cabins.
What if I’m traveling with a campervan?
You can bring campervans, but space is limited. Reserve early to ensure availability.
