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Ferries from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete run year-round from Piraeus ports, 7 days a week. The first ferry from the Piraeus port departs at 21:00, and the last at 21:00 from Piraeus. From June to September, there are approximately 21 crossings per week. In quieter periods, the route is served by around 13 crossings per week. The fastest ferry departing from Piraeus, takes 7h 50min, while on average the ferry trip lasts about 9h 2min. Ticket prices range from €33.00 to €89.70. Book your tickets online to Heraklion, Crete with Ferryscanner for an easy booking experience and the best price guarantee.
Ferries traveling from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete may stop at other destinations along the way, for example: Piraeus - Syros - Tinos - Mykonos - Paros - Naxos - Santorini - Heraklion, Crete.
Ferry companies from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete
The Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete route is served by Minoan Lines, Hellenic Seaways, ANEK Lines, Seajets, Super Fast Ferries, Blue Star Ferries. The ferry companies running this route next week, grouped by departure port and sorted by average ticket price.
Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete ferry schedule
Ferry times from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete depend on the operator, season, and departure port. Key info to help you plan:
Can I travel by ferry from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete?
Yes, ferries connect Athens (All Ports) and Heraklion, Crete, with Minoan Lines, Hellenic Seaways, ANEK Lines, Seajets, Super Fast Ferries, Blue Star Ferries companies operating the route. The ferry trip lasts 9h 2min on average. Ferries depart from the Piraeus ports and are available weekly.
How long does the ferry take from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete?
The ferry ride from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete typically takes 9h 2min, with the fastest ferry getting there in just 7h 50min from Piraeus port. For the remaining ports, the average travel time is: . Travel times vary based on the departure port, ferry operator, weather conditions on the day, and whether you go for a high-speed or conventional ferry. You may find that on some routes, only one ferry company is available.
The distance between Athens (All Ports) and Heraklion, Crete is about 319.33km or 172.31nm. The longest ferry ride takes 9h 30min and departs from Piraeus.
When you book your ferry tickets for the Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete route with Ferryscanner, you’ll see the Recommended option, which is calculated using an algorithm that considers factors like direct routes, speed, e-ticket availability, and arrival times to make sure you find the best choice for your trip.
Shortest ferry ride from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete
, operated by Seajets, is the fastest ferry from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete. It departs from Piraeus and takes 7h 50min.
Is it possible to take a day trip from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete?
No, a day trip from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete isn’t practical as the shortest travel time is 7h 50min from all available ports, and there’s no return ferry on the same day. We’d recommend you take at least two days to truly visit Heraklion, Crete. Use our ferry search and booking system to explore return options and visit the Heraklion, Crete to Athens (All Ports) ferry route for more details and schedules to help plan your trip.
Do overnight ferries run from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete?
Yes, night ferries operate on the Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete route, departing from Piraeus. They offer a convenient way to travel while enjoying a restful trip.
This summary for the Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete route is based on recent data and is updated regularly. Schedules may change due to seasons, ferry operators, or availability. For the latest timetable, including routes, stops, and prices, check our ferry search and booking system.
Ferry ticket prices, offers and discounts from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete
Ferry ticket prices from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete vary depending on the type of ticket, ferry operator, and the port of departure. Prices range from €33.00 to €89.70 for foot passengers and average €81.00 for vehicles, with cabins or premium seating options available for an additional fee. When sailing from:
- Piraeus, ferry tickets start at €33.00 for foot passengers and from €16.00 for vehicles.
Book your tickets to Heraklion, Crete as early as possible so as to make sure you get the best price. Fares tend to increase closer to your departure date. Some ferries may have specific restrictions, such as only accepting foot passengers or requiring vehicles for boarding.
Ferry Offers
Depending on the season and the ferry company, you may come across special offers for the Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete route, including early booking discounts or limited-time promotions. To stay informed, follow the Ferryscanner blog, connect with us on social media, or subscribe to our newsletter. Any valid offers are automatically applied during the booking process, ensuring you always get the best price for your trip to Heraklion, Crete.
Choose your ferry from the Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete timetable
How to get from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete
Traveling from Athens to Heraklion, Crete is best done by ferry, with the main departure port being Piraeus. Located about 10 kilometers from the city center, reaching Piraeus is straightforward. You can take the metro from central Athens, which runs frequently and takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, taxis or buses are available from Athens International Airport, offering direct routes that typically take about an hour. Be sure to check the schedules in advance, as ferry departures can vary, especially during peak seasons.
At Piraeus, ferries to Heraklion generally leave from specific terminals that can differ by company. Most ferries operate from the main passenger terminals, making them easier to navigate. Look for clear signage directing you to the correct dock or gate upon arrival. As schedules can change, it's important to confirm your ticket details and check for any updates via email. Arriving early helps ensure you can find your way without rushing and allows time for any unexpected changes.
Heading from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete without or with a vehicle
Foot passengers can take ferries from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete, and most sailings are accessible for wheelchair users. If you want to double-check what's available, feel free to reach out to our support team. It's best to be at the boarding gate at least 60 minutes before the ferry leaves. You can also choose extras like Flexi Cancellation and SMS Notifications when booking, to make your trip a bit more carefree.
Can you bring a car on the ferry from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete?
Cars are allowed on certain ferries from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete, and we provide a simple and convenient way to book your ticket. Ferries that accommodate cars:
- FESTOS PALACE- Minoan Lines, departing from Piraeus
- CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1- Seajets, departing from Piraeus
- NISSOS RODOS- Hellenic Seaways, departing from Piraeus
- KNOSSOS PALACE- Minoan Lines, departing from Piraeus
- BLUE STAR CHIOS- Blue Star Ferries, departing from Piraeus
- CHAMPION JET 3W- Seajets, departing from Piraeus
- ASTERION II- ANEK Lines, departing from Piraeus
- SUPERRUNNER JET- Seajets, departing from Piraeus
- CHAMPION JET 1- Seajets, departing from Piraeus
Vehicle transport to Heraklion, Crete is priced based on the type of vehicle, the ferry company, the departure port, and the season. Prices start from €16.00. For unaccompanied vehicles, you can contact our support team for help.
Take your motorcycle to Heraklion, Crete
You can take a motorcycle on FESTOS PALACE, CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1, NISSOS RODOS, KNOSSOS PALACE, BLUE STAR CHIOS, CHAMPION JET 3W, ASTERION II, SUPERRUNNER JET, CHAMPION JET 1 ferries from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete. Booking is easy, with rates tailored for motorbikes.
Take your bicycle to Heraklion, Crete
Bicycles are typically accepted on ferries from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete, and they're often free of charge. If there's a cost involved, you'll see it during checkout. Ferries that accept bicycles on this route: FESTOS PALACE, CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 1, NISSOS RODOS, KNOSSOS PALACE, BLUE STAR CHIOS, CHAMPION JET 3W, ASTERION II, SUPERRUNNER JET, CHAMPION JET 1.
Bring luggage with you on the ferry to Heraklion, Crete
You can generally bring your luggage for free when traveling from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete.
Luggage Allowance: Most ferry companies permit 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 50 kg per person. However, this can vary by company or ferry vessel. Per ferry:
- BLUE STAR CHIOS: Up to 50kg per passenger.
You are advised to label your luggage clearly and make sure to place it in designated storage areas when boarding. For any oversized or additional luggage, extra fees may apply, depending on the ferry company.
For precise details or unique restrictions, please get in touch with our support team.
Cabins on board
Some ferries from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete offer cabins, allowing you to sleep on the ship during longer trips. Cabins may include private or shared options, and pet-friendly cabins are available on some ships.
Is cabin booking available from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete?
Yes, you can book a cabin on the ASTERION II, BLUE STAR CHIOS, F/B ARIADNE, FESTOS PALACE, KNOSSOS PALACE, NISSOS RODOS ferries, offering you the chance to get a comfortable night’s sleep on board while traveling to Heraklion, Crete. Options may include private and shared cabins. Book early to secure your preferred spot.
Bringing your pet on the ferry
Pets are welcome on ferries between Athens (All Ports) and Heraklion, Crete, but rules differ by company. General guidelines:
- Pets over 10 kg go in onboard kennels, while smaller ones (under 10 kg) can travel in a pet carrier.
- Service dogs are not subject to kennel rules.
- Bring all needed documents and pet supplies.
- On Greek domestic routes, pets typically travel free.
For detailed ferry policies, check the company’s page on our site or reach out to our support team.
Smart travel tips from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete
Make your journey from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete enjoyable with these simple tips for a safe, cozy, and fun adventure!
Safety: Ferries on this route follow modern safety regulations, giving you peace of mind as you travel across the Aegean Sea.
Parking: There's ample parking available at Piraeus, making it easy to leave your car before you board.
Scenic Views: Keep your camera ready for stunning views of the islands and sea—it's a feast for your eyes!
Ticket Tips: Book your tickets early to secure the best prices and seating options. Use the Ferryscanner app for easy booking and real-time updates.
Onboard Dining: The ferries have dining options, but it’s a good idea to pack snacks and water for the trip.
Weather Ready: The sun can be strong, so don’t forget sunscreen if you’re traveling in summer. A light jacket is helpful for the indoor areas as they can be cooler.
Outdoor Decks: Be aware that the outdoor decks can be windy, so hold on tight while enjoying the fresh air!
- Local Flavors: Don’t miss tasting Heraklion’s famous cheeses and olive oil, perfect for souvenirs!
- Cultural Treasures: Explore the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, showcasing rich Minoan history!
Check out our blog for more tips and inspiration to help you enjoy your trip to Heraklion, Crete even more.
Getting to the ferry ports in Athens (All Ports)
To reach the Piraeus ports, you can find the main ferry terminal located approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Athens city center and around 40 kilometers from Athens International Airport. For transportation, taxis and rideshares are convenient options, taking about 30 minutes from the airport or city center, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can use public transport: the metro Line 1 connects the city center (Omonoia or Monastiraki stations) directly to Piraeus, with trains running every 20 minutes and the journey taking around 20-25 minutes. Buses also operate between the city center and Piraeus, providing a budget-friendly option.
In Heraklion, Crete, the ferry terminal is centrally located near the city's main attractions, such as the Archaeological Museum and the vibrant waterfront. It’s easily accessible on foot or via local buses, which connect to various parts of the island.
For the most accurate and current information regarding transportation schedules and services, it's always a good idea to double-check before you travel. If you encounter any discrepancies, please let our support team know so we can assist you further.
Make the most of your time in Heraklion, Crete
Heraklion, Crete is a super fun place to visit! It has the famous Palace of Knossos, where you can learn about the ancient Minoan civilization. Don't forget to check out the Heraklion Archaeological Museum too, where you can see cool old treasures. When you need a break, head to the beautiful beaches like Amoudara for sun and swimming.
You can also stroll through the charming streets of the old town, where there are lots of shops and tasty local food. Try a delicious gyro or some fresh seafood—Yum! For nature lovers, a hike in the nearby mountains gives you amazing views.
One hidden gem is the little village of Archanes, where you can taste local wines and feel the real Cretan atmosphere. Heraklion is perfect for a short visit, but it’s also a great spot to start your adventure to other islands like Santorini or Naxos. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have an exciting time in Heraklion!
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Learn more about ferry options and other ways to get from Athens (All Ports) to Heraklion, Crete.
BLUE STAR CHIOS Blue Star Ferries
FESTOS PALACE Minoan Lines
CHAMPION JET 1 Seajets
SUPERRUNNER JET Seajets
ASTERION II ANEK Lines
NISSOS RODOS Hellenic Seaways
F/B ARIADNE Super Fast Ferries
KNOSSOS PALACE Minoan Lines
CHAMPION JET 3W Seajets