Piraeus to Milos is the main way into the western Cyclades from Athens. Milos has become one of the most sought-after islands in Greece, thanks to its volcanic coastline: the white moonscape of Sarakiniko, the sea caves of Kleftiko, colourful fishing hamlets like Klima and Firopotamos, and a coastline full of beaches. Its popularity means the ferry link is busy, well served and worth booking early.
Unlike many island routes, you have a genuine choice of operator here. Seajets runs the quick high-speed boats, and five conventional companies cover the rest, with crossings from about four hours to a little over seven. Fares, durations and comfort vary a lot, so it pays to compare departures rather than booking the first one you see.
You leave from Piraeus, Athens' main port at the end of metro Line 1, and step off in Adamas, the harbour village of Milos. The village starts almost at the foot of the ramp, so you can find a coffee, a meal or a room within minutes, which makes it an easy place to land and plan the rest of your stay.
Our advice: for July and August, book as soon as your dates are fixed, and treat car spaces, cabins and the quickest morning sailings as the first things to sell out. In spring and autumn you can usually leave it until a couple of weeks before. With a car, pick a conventional ship, since not every high-speed boat takes vehicles.
