Santorini to Paros is the crossing most people take when they want to swap the caldera crowds for an island that feels lived in. It is one of the steadiest links in the central Cyclades: boats run every day of the year, and on our 12 August 2026 sample you could choose between a 06:15 Blue Star, five Seajets fast boats and an afternoon Golden Star sailing.
The two ends could hardly be more different. You leave from Athinios, the ferry port on Santorini's south-west side, about 8 km south of Fira and 9 km from the airport. You arrive in Parikia, the capital of Paros, where the ferry ties up right beside town, so the old lanes, cafés and tavernas are a short walk from the gangway. Naoussa, the fishing harbour turned summer hotspot, is about 10 km away.
In a trip plan, Paros works as the hub after Santorini. From Parikia you can reach Naxos, Mykonos, Ios and Antiparos in short hops, so many travellers do Santorini first, then settle in Paros for a few nights and branch out from there. Ferryhopper notes that many sailings call at Naxos or Ios along the way, which helps explain why some take twice as long as others.
Before you book, decide what matters more: speed or price. The fast boats cost roughly twice a Blue Star deck ticket (€33 against €52.50 to €68.70 on our 12 August 2026 sample). Athinios gets very busy in July and August, so book your taxi or transfer ahead and leave yourself a margin.
