Ferry Route
Duration
3h 40m
From
€43.00
Frequency
Every day
passengers
From
€86
2 × €43
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0h
Fastest crossing
0x
Daily departures
0+
Ferry operators
The Athens (Rafina) to Naxos ferry is one of the Cyclades' most popular connections, operating every day with journey times from 3h 40m to 6h 36m and tickets from €43.00. The route is served by Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries, with vehicle transport available on conventional ferries. Ferries operate Apr - Oct.
Naxos is celebrated for its long sandy beaches, the ancient Portara gateway, lush mountainous interior with traditional villages, and outstanding local cuisine. Whether you're drawn by the beaches, the local cuisine, or the authentic Cycladic atmosphere, Naxos rewards visitors who make the crossing.
Insider Tip: For the best experience sailing to Naxos, book a morning departure — you'll arrive with the whole day ahead of you. Shoulder season (May or late September) offers the sweet spot: fewer crowds, lower prices, and gorgeous warm weather. If you're traveling July–August, book tickets at least 4–6 weeks ahead.
Ferry Companies
High-speed ferry
From
€43.00
Duration
3h 40m
High-speed ferry
From
€43.00
Duration
3h 40m
Conventional ferry
From
€43.00
Duration
3h 40m
Schedule
Availability
| Month | Frequency | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7 days per week | 6h 36m | €43 |
| February | 7 days per week | 6h 36m | €43 |
| March | 7 days per week | 6h 36m | €43 |
| April | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €49 |
| May | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €49 |
| June | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €56 |
| July | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €56 |
| August | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €56 |
| September | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €56 |
| October | 7 days per week | 3h 40m | €49 |
| November | 7 days per week | 6h 36m | €43 |
| December | 7 days per week | 6h 36m | €43 |
Pricing
| Passengers | Rafina → Naxos | Naxos → Rafina |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Adult | €43.00 | €43.00 |
| 2 Adults | €86 | €86 |
| 2 Adults + Car | €215 | €215 |
| Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) | €129 | €129 |
Operators
The Rafina to Naxos route is served by Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. Here's a detailed breakdown of each operator's offering:
Seajets is Greece's leading high-speed ferry operator, known for the fastest crossings across the Cyclades. Their fleet of modern catamarans and high-speed monohulls dramatically reduces travel times compared to conventional ferries, making them the top choice for travelers prioritizing speed.
Fleet: High-speed catamarans and monohulls (Worldchampion Jet, Champion Jet 3, Supercat Jet, Olympic Champion Jet) — carrying 250–900 passengers, some with limited vehicle capacity
Golden Star Ferries operates modern high-speed vessels, particularly strong on the Rafina–Mykonos–Tinos–Andros corridor and seasonal Santorini routes. Known for good value and reliable service.
Fleet: High-speed ferries (Superrunner, Tera Jet) — carrying 400–700 passengers with vehicle capacity on select vessels
Fast Ferries operates both high-speed and conventional vessels on key Cyclades routes, offering a reliable middle-ground option between the speed of Seajets and the comfort of Blue Star. Particularly strong on northern Cyclades routes from Rafina.
Fleet: Conventional ferries and high-speed vessels (Fast Ferries Andros, Theologos P) — serving both Piraeus and Rafina ports
| Operator | Ferry Type | Duration | Price From | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seajets | High-Speed | 3h 40m – 6h 36m | €43.00 | ⚡ Limited |
| Golden Star Ferries | High-Speed | 3h 40m – 6h 36m | €43.00 | ⚡ Limited |
| Fast Ferries | Conventional | 3h 40m – 6h 36m | €43.00 | ✅ Yes |
Our recommendation: For the fastest crossing, choose a high-speed service. For more comfort, space, and the option to take your vehicle, go conventional. Both options are reliable — the right choice depends on your priorities.
More routes
On Board
Ferries on the Rafina to Naxos route offer comfortable travel with a full range of onboard amenities. Here's what to expect from each operator:
Seajets is Greece's leading high-speed ferry operator, known for the fastest crossings across the Cyclades. Their fleet of modern catamarans and high-speed monohulls dramatically reduces travel times compared to conventional ferries, making them the top choice for travelers prioritizing speed.
Fleet on this route: High-speed catamarans and monohulls (Worldchampion Jet, Champion Jet 3, Supercat Jet, Olympic Champion Jet) — carrying 250–900 passengers, some with limited vehicle capacity
Seat & Cabin Classes: Economy Seats: Numbered airline-style seats (standard). Business Class: Premium seats in quieter forward cabin with extra legroom. First Class / VIP: Available on select vessels — premium lounge with dedicated service. No sleeping cabins on high-speed vessels.
Luggage Policy: Up to 50 kg per passenger, free of charge. On high-speed catamarans, luggage is stored in overhead bins or designated racks — no large oversize items. All luggage must fit in designated storage areas.
Pets: Pets accepted free when included in booking. Animals under 10 kg stay with owner in a carrier in the passenger cabin. Larger pets use kennels in the vehicle area. Health certificate required. Note: on rough sea days, pets in the vehicle area may experience more motion.
Vehicles: Selected Seajets vessels carry vehicles — check the specific sailing when booking. Car rates from €35–70. Motorcycles from €10–20. Many Seajets catamaran services are passenger-only — if vehicle transport is essential, verify before booking.
Golden Star Ferries operates modern high-speed vessels, particularly strong on the Rafina–Mykonos–Tinos–Andros corridor and seasonal Santorini routes. Known for good value and reliable service.
Fleet on this route: High-speed ferries (Superrunner, Tera Jet) — carrying 400–700 passengers with vehicle capacity on select vessels
Seat & Cabin Classes: Economy Seats: Numbered airplane-style seats. Business/VIP Lounge: Premium seating area on select vessels. Cabins on Superrunner for longer routes.
Luggage Policy: Up to 50 kg per passenger, free. No formal check-in required.
Pets: Pets accepted free with valid health documentation. Small pets with owner in cabin; larger pets in designated pet zones.
Vehicles: Vehicle transport available on select Golden Star vessels. Cars from €30–70. Motorcycles from €10–25.
Fast Ferries operates both high-speed and conventional vessels on key Cyclades routes, offering a reliable middle-ground option between the speed of Seajets and the comfort of Blue Star. Particularly strong on northern Cyclades routes from Rafina.
Fleet on this route: Conventional ferries and high-speed vessels (Fast Ferries Andros, Theologos P) — serving both Piraeus and Rafina ports
Seat & Cabin Classes: Economy Seats: Standard indoor seating. Deck: Open-air seating on conventional vessels. Cabins available on select conventional vessels.
Luggage Policy: Standard flexible policy — up to 50 kg recommended, no formal restrictions. Luggage stored in onboard racks.
Pets: Pets accepted with health certificates. Animals under 10 kg with owner in cabin area; larger pets in designated pet areas. Free when included in booking.
Vehicles: Conventional Fast Ferries vessels have full vehicle garages. Car transport from €20–60. Motorcycles from €8–20. Book vehicle space early for peak season.
All ferries on this route have clean restrooms, luggage storage areas, and food and beverage service. In peak season (July–August), we recommend reserving a specific seat or cabin class rather than traveling on an open deck ticket.
Travel Tips
Port of Rafina, located 33 km east of Athens city center and just 26 km from Athens International Airport, is the faster alternative to Piraeus for northern Cyclades routes. KTEL buses depart every 30–60 minutes from Pedion Areos park in central Athens (€3.50, ~1 hour). Taxis from the airport cost around €35. The port has one terminal with 13 standard docks and 2 high-speed docks — all within easy walking distance. Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure. Limited free parking; paid lots nearby.
Naxos port is steps from the town center — you can walk directly to shops, restaurants, and hotels from the dock. KTEL buses to Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka, Halki, and Apeiranthos depart from the station 100m from the port. Taxis to Plaka beach take 10 minutes (€10). Car rentals available immediately at the port. The Portara ruins are a 5-minute walk along the causeway — a perfect first stop after arrival. Naxos Town (Chora) has supermarkets and a lively market street.
Seajets prices are lowest when booked 3+ months ahead. In summer, the fastest sailings (Worldchampion Jet routes) sell out weeks in advance. For the cheapest fares, choose earlier morning departures. Seajets is the best choice for the Athens–Mykonos, Mykonos–Santorini, and Santorini–Ios routes.
Naxos is celebrated for its long sandy beaches, the ancient Portara gateway, lush mountainous interior with traditional villages, and outstanding local cuisine. Don't miss exploring the main town (Chora), the local beaches, and the traditional tavernas. For a full guide to Naxos's top attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems, visit our Naxos island guide.
Island Hopping
After arriving in Naxos, extend your Cycladic adventure with these popular onward ferry connections:
3-Island Express (4–5 days): Spend 1–2 days in Naxos, then ferry to Paros for 1 day, and continue to Ios for 1–2 days before returning to Athens. Total: a perfect Cyclades sampler that packs in three distinct island personalities.
Use our ferry search engine to find the best schedules and prices for your multi-island itinerary, or browse our island hopping guides for curated route inspiration.
Things to Do
Discover the top tours, excursions, and experiences waiting for you in Naxos.
Explore Naxos's most beautiful coastlines by boat or guided tour.
Discover the history, architecture, and local traditions of Naxos.
Taste the authentic flavours of Naxos with local food and wine experiences.
Where to Stay
From boutique hotels to traditional villas — find the perfect accommodation for your Naxos stay.
Island Guides
Discover the best beaches, hotels, restaurants, and activities on the islands of this route.
Beaches, hotels, restaurants & things to do
Beaches, hotels, restaurants & things to do
💡 Pro tip: Read our Naxos guide before your trip to discover hidden gems. Don't forget to organize your stay early by checking our curated Hotels in Naxos and securing your mobility through Naxos Car Rentals directly at the port or airport fees-free.
Route Map
FAQ
The ferry from Rafina to Naxos takes between 3h 40m and 6h 36m, depending on the vessel type and operator. High-speed catamarans offer the fastest crossing at approximately 3h 40m, while conventional ferries take up to 6h 36m but offer more spacious travel with outdoor decks, cafeterias, and cabin options. Journey times may be slightly longer in winter due to sea conditions.
Ferry tickets from Rafina to Naxos start from €43.00 for a standard economy seat in low season. Prices vary by operator, seat class, and time of year — peak season (July–August) fares are typically 25–35% higher. Business class seats and private cabins cost more. Families can save by booking a 4-berth cabin. Use Ferryhopper to compare all available fares in real time.
Ferries operate every day during the main season (Apr - Oct). In peak summer (July–August), there may be multiple daily sailings. Service can be reduced or suspended during winter months on some routes. The route is served by Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. Check the latest schedules on Ferryhopper for exact departure times.
Yes — conventional ferries on this route have vehicle garages and can carry cars, motorcycles, campervans, and even buses. Vehicle spaces are limited and sell out fast in summer, so book at least 4–6 weeks ahead if you're traveling July–August. High-speed catamarans on this route generally do not carry vehicles. Arrive at the port at least 60–90 minutes before departure when traveling with a vehicle.
The best time to visit Naxos is late May through early October. June and September offer the ideal balance: warm swimming weather, lower prices than peak season, fewer crowds, and the best ferry connections. July–August is peak season — the most lively but also the most crowded and expensive. May is an excellent shoulder month with pleasant weather and very few tourists. Naxos is known for its long sandy beaches, the ancient Portara gateway, lush mountainous interior with traditional villages, and outstanding local cuisine.
The route is served by Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries. For the fastest crossing, choose a high-speed service (typically Seajets or Golden Star). For most comfort or if you're traveling with a vehicle, choose a conventional ferry (Blue Star Ferries or similar). For the best price, compare all options on Ferryhopper — prices can vary significantly by departure time and booking lead time.
The easiest way to book is through Ferryhopper — the leading Greek ferry booking platform. Simply enter your departure port, destination, and travel date to see all available sailings, compare prices across operators, and book securely online. Tickets are delivered by email and can be used on your phone. You can also book directly on each operator's website, but Ferryhopper shows all options in one place for easy comparison.
Yes — with journey times up to 6h 36m, overnight or late-evening departures are available on conventional ferry services. Overnight ferries offer cabin options (2-bed, 4-bed, or deluxe cabins with private bathroom) so you can sleep during the crossing and wake up at your destination. This is a great way to save a night's accommodation. Book your cabin class specifically when purchasing — cabin berths sell out quickly, especially in summer.
