Discover Cyclades
Discover Cyclades
The Santorini (Thira) to Heraklion (Crete) ferry takes about 2h, tickets from €20. Compare operators, schedules & port tips and book 2026 online with…
Ferry Route
Duration
2h
From
€20
Frequency
Seasonal service
passengers
From
€40
2 × €20
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0h
Fastest crossing
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Daily departures
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Ferry operators
The ferry from Santorini (Athinios) to Heraklion takes about 2h and fares start from €20. There are up to Seasonal service crossings a day in high season, run by Blue Star Ferries, Seajets. Book online to compare departure times and secure the lowest fare.
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The ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Heraklion (Crete) is a key Cyclades connection. The crossing takes about 2h on the fastest vessels, with tickets from €20. sailings run seasonally, thinning out in winter, operated by Blue Star Ferries and Seajets.
Compare live schedules and fares below, then book in seconds. Planning your trip to Heraklion? Line up your transfers, rent a car in Heraklion and island hopping in one place on Discover Cyclades. Travelling the other way? See the Heraklion to Santorini ferry.
Ferry Companies
Conventional ferry
From
€20
Duration
2h
High-speed ferry
From
€20
Duration
2h
Schedule
Availability
| Month | Frequency | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3-5 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| February | 3-5 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| March | 3-5 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| April | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| May | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| June | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| July | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| August | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| September | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| October | 6-7 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| November | 3-5 days/week | 2h | €20 |
| December | 3-5 days/week | 2h | €20 |
Pricing
| Passengers | Santorini (Athinios) → Heraklion | Heraklion → Santorini (Athinios) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy / Deck seat | €20 | €20 |
| Airline-style numbered seat | See live fares | See live fares |
| Business / VIP class | See live fares | See live fares |
| Car transport | See live fares | See live fares |
| Motorcycle | See live fares | See live fares |
| Children (5–10 yrs) | Up to 50% discount | Up to 50% discount |
| Infants (0–4 yrs) | Free | Free |
Operators
On Board
Ferries on the Santorini–Heraklion corridor mix conventional ships and high-speed craft. Expect air-conditioned lounges, cafes or snack bars, restrooms, and bilingual announcements. Conventional vessels usually offer more deck space and cabin options; catamarans prioritise speed with airline-style seating.
Travel Tips
Arrive at Santorini (Thira) port 60–90 minutes early in peak season. Confirm your gate on the ticket and keep boarding passes handy.
Island Hopping
From Heraklion (Crete), continue your Cyclades itinerary with same-day or next-day connections to nearby islands. Compare live schedules on Discover Cyclades before you lock multi-island dates.
Things to Do
Discover the top tours, excursions, and experiences waiting for you in Heraklion.
Explore Heraklion's most beautiful coastlines by boat or guided tour.
Discover the history, architecture, and local traditions of Heraklion.
Taste the authentic flavours of Heraklion with local food and wine experiences.
Where to Stay
From boutique hotels to traditional villas, find the perfect accommodation for your Heraklion 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 Heraklion guide before your trip to discover hidden gems. Don't forget to organize your stay early by checking our curated Hotels in Heraklion and securing your mobility through Heraklion Car Rentals directly at the port or airport fees-free.
Arrange a rental car · Heraklion
Compare local rental cars for Heraklion and arrange delivery before you arrive.
Route Map
FAQ
The Santorini to Heraklion ferry takes around 2h on the fastest vessels. Conventional ferries can take longer depending on intermediate stops and sea conditions. The Heraklion to Santorini ferry runs the same times in reverse.
Tickets start from €20 for a standard seat. Final fares depend on operator, season, seat class and whether you bring a vehicle. Book early for July–August sailings when prices and demand peak.
Departures are generally seasonal (more frequent Apr–Oct). Summer (June–September) has the most sailings, while winter schedules thin out, so always re-check live departures below before you travel.
Most conventional ferries carry cars and motorbikes when space is available; high-speed catamarans may have limited or no vehicle deck. Add your vehicle when booking, or simply rent a car in Heraklion on arrival.
Compare every operator and departure in the search box above, then book in seconds with instant e-ticket confirmation. Keep a digital ticket on your phone and arrive at the port 30–60 minutes before departure.
This route is served by Blue Star Ferries and Seajets. High-speed operators are quickest, while conventional lines are cheaper, roomier and carry vehicles. Pick by your priority — speed, price or comfort — using the comparison below.
Departure times shift by season and operator, with most sailings clustered in the morning and early afternoon in summer. Check the live timetable below for exact 2026 departure times on your travel date.
Take an early ferry, explore Heraklion, and return on a later sailing when schedules allow. Always confirm the last departure of the day before you set off so you are not stranded.
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Ferryhopper · live
Real-time sailings from Ferryhopper. Prices are per adult passenger.