Ferry Route
Duration
40m
From
€8.00
Frequency
3-5 times per week
passengers
From
€16
2 × €8
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Fastest crossing
0x
Daily departures
0+
Ferry operators
The Kythnos to Kea ferry is one of the Cyclades' most popular connections, operating 3-5 times per week with journey times from 40m to 1h 12m and tickets from €8.00. The route is served by Fast Ferries, with vehicle transport available on conventional ferries. Service runs year-round.
Kea is celebrated for its ancient Lion of Kea sculpture, oak forests unique in the Cyclades, proximity to Athens for weekend escapes, and unspoiled character. Whether you're drawn by the beaches, the local cuisine, or the authentic Cycladic atmosphere, Kea rewards visitors who make the crossing.
Insider Tip: The Kythnos to Kea crossing is one of the Aegean's most scenic routes. Grab a seat on the outdoor deck for unbeatable sea views. Traveling mid-week usually means emptier ferries and a more relaxed arrival. In peak season, book at least 2–3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred departure time.
Ferry Companies
Conventional ferry
From
€8.00
Duration
40m
Schedule
Availability
| Month | Frequency | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3 days per week | 1h 12m | €8 |
| February | 3 days per week | 1h 12m | €8 |
| March | 3 days per week | 1h 12m | €8 |
| April | 4 days per week | 40m | €9 |
| May | 4 days per week | 40m | €9 |
| June | 5 days per week | 40m | €10 |
| July | 5 days per week | 40m | €10 |
| August | 5 days per week | 40m | €10 |
| September | 5 days per week | 40m | €10 |
| October | 4 days per week | 40m | €9 |
| November | 3 days per week | 1h 12m | €8 |
| December | 3 days per week | 1h 12m | €8 |
Pricing
| Passengers | Kythnos → Kea | Kea → Kythnos |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Adult | €8.00 | €8.00 |
| 2 Adults | €16 | €16 |
| 2 Adults + Car | €40 | €40 |
| Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) | €24 | €24 |
Operators
The Kythnos to Kea route is served by Fast Ferries. Here's a detailed breakdown of each operator's offering:
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fast Ferries | Conventional | 40m – 1h 12m | €8.00 | ✅ Yes |
Our recommendation: Fast Ferries is a reliable choice for this route. Compare live prices and schedules on Ferryhopper.
More routes
On Board
Ferries on the Kythnos to Kea route offer comfortable travel with a full range of onboard amenities. Here's what to expect from each operator:
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 Merichas is Kythnos's main port, on the northwest coast. Served by both Lavrio and Piraeus ferries. The port village has a sandy beach (Episkopi) and basic amenities. Buses to Dryopida and Loutra run in summer. Taxis to Chora/Kythnos Town cost €10. Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Kythnos is beloved by Greek families for its authentic character and thermal springs — reserve accommodation well ahead for August.
Arriving in Kea, you enter one of the most unspoiled Cyclades islands — no airport, limited tourism, and a landscape of oak forests and ancient terraces unique in the archipelago. The capital Ioulida (Chora) is a Cycladic gem perched on a hilltop, with the famous Lion of Kea — a 6th-century BC stone sculpture — carved into a cliff 10 minutes from town. Kea's numerous coves and beaches are best explored by car or scooter rental from the port.
Fast Ferries offers competitive prices on Rafina–Mykonos, Rafina–Andros, and Piraeus–Milos routes. Book via Ferryhopper for real-time price comparison. Good value for families traveling with vehicles.
Kea is celebrated for its ancient Lion of Kea sculpture, oak forests unique in the Cyclades, proximity to Athens for weekend escapes, and unspoiled character. Don't miss exploring the main town (Chora), the local beaches, and the traditional tavernas. For a full guide to Kea's top attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems, visit our Kea island guide.
Island Hopping
After arriving in Kea, extend your Cycladic adventure with these popular onward ferry connections:
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 Kea.
Explore Kea's most beautiful coastlines by boat or guided tour.
Discover the history, architecture, and local traditions of Kea.
Taste the authentic flavours of Kea with local food and wine experiences.
Where to Stay
From boutique hotels to traditional villas — find the perfect accommodation for your Kea 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 Kea guide before your trip to discover hidden gems. Don't forget to organize your stay early by checking our curated Hotels in Kea and securing your mobility through Kea Car Rentals directly at the port or airport fees-free.
Route Map
FAQ
The ferry from Kythnos to Kea takes between 40m and 1h 12m, depending on the vessel type and operator. High-speed catamarans offer the fastest crossing at approximately 40m, while conventional ferries take up to 1h 12m 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 Kythnos to Kea start from €8.00 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 3-5 times per week during the main season (Jan - Dec). 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 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 Kea 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. Kea is known for its ancient Lion of Kea sculpture, oak forests unique in the Cyclades, proximity to Athens for weekend escapes, and unspoiled character.
The route is served by Fast Ferries. Fast Ferries is a reliable operator for this route. Fast Ferries offers competitive prices on Rafina–Mykonos, Rafina–Andros, and Piraeus–Milos routes. Book via Ferryhopper for real-time price comparison. Good value for families traveling with vehicles.
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.
