Naxos is one of the best-connected islands in the Aegean, and the ferry to Piraeus is its main line to the mainland. It is the route most visitors take at the end of a stay, and because Naxos is a year-round island rather than only a summer resort, the line keeps running through the winter.
You leave from the port of Naxos at the edge of Chora, the island's capital, next to the old town and the waterfront. You arrive at Piraeus, the main port of Athens, with the metro, buses and taxis waiting to take you into Athens or out to the airport.
This crossing fits almost any Cyclades itinerary. Naxos is a natural base for the Small Cyclades and Amorgos, and if you want to add Paros on the way home, you can book Naxos to Paros and then Paros to Piraeus as two legs. If you are heading home, the ferry drops you close to central Athens, which suits an evening or a night in the city before your flight.
Before booking, weigh time against comfort. The Seajets catamarans are faster but cost more and offer only lounge seating. Blue Star's large ships are slower but roomier, with decks, restaurants and cabins, and they carry vehicles easily. If you are travelling with a car or on a night sailing, Blue Star is the natural choice, and cabins go quickly in summer.
