Ferry Route
Duration
2h 30m
From
€20.00
Frequency
Seasonal service
passengers
From
€40
2 × €20
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0h
Fastest crossing
0x
Daily departures
0+
Ferry operators
The Tinos to Kea ferry is one of the Cyclades' most popular connections, operating seasonal service with journey times from 2h 30m to 4h 30m and tickets from €20.00. The route is served by Golden Star Ferries. Ferries operate Apr - Oct.
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 Tinos 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
High-speed ferry
From
€20.00
Duration
2h 30m
Schedule
Availability
| Month | Frequency | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Not available | 4h 30m | €20 |
| February | Not available | 4h 30m | €20 |
| March | Not available | 4h 30m | €20 |
| April | 3 days per week | 2h 30m | €23 |
| May | 3 days per week | 2h 30m | €23 |
| June | 5 days per week | 2h 30m | €26 |
| July | 5 days per week | 2h 30m | €26 |
| August | 5 days per week | 2h 30m | €26 |
| September | 5 days per week | 2h 30m | €26 |
| October | 3 days per week | 2h 30m | €23 |
| November | Not available | 4h 30m | €20 |
| December | Not available | 4h 30m | €20 |
Pricing
| Passengers | Tinos → Kea | Kea → Tinos |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Adult | €20.00 | €20.00 |
| 2 Adults | €40 | €40 |
| 2 Adults + Car | N/A | N/A |
| Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) | €60 | €60 |
Operators
The Tinos to Kea route is served by Golden Star Ferries. Here's a detailed breakdown of each operator's offering:
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
| Operator | Ferry Type | Duration | Price From | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Star Ferries | High-Speed | 2h 30m – 4h 30m | €20.00 | ⚡ Limited |
Our recommendation: Golden Star Ferries is a reliable choice for this route. Compare live prices and schedules on Ferryhopper.
More routes
On Board
Ferries on the Tinos to Kea route offer comfortable travel with a full range of onboard amenities. Here's what to expect from each operator:
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.
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 Tinos is in the island's main town, directly below the famous Church of Panagia Evangelistria — you can see the church's grand staircase from the dock. Ferries from Piraeus, Mykonos, Andros, and Syros all dock here. The port has ATMs, car rentals, and a bus station for the island's villages. Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure. During the August 15th religious festival (Assumption of Mary), the island receives 25,000+ pilgrims — book well in advance and arrive extra early.
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.
Golden Star is particularly competitive on Rafina–Mykonos, Tinos–Andros, and seasonal Mykonos–Santorini routes. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for peak summer sailings.
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 Tinos to Kea takes between 2h 30m and 4h 30m, depending on the vessel type and operator. High-speed catamarans offer the fastest crossing at approximately 2h 30m, while conventional ferries take up to 4h 30m 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 Tinos to Kea start from €20.00 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 seasonal service 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 Golden Star Ferries. Check the latest schedules on Ferryhopper for exact departure times.
Vehicle transport on this route is limited or unavailable. The route is primarily served by high-speed passenger vessels. If transporting a car is essential, check with operators directly for any conventional ferry options that may operate seasonally. For most travelers, renting a vehicle on arrival is the most practical solution.
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 Golden Star Ferries. Golden Star Ferries is a reliable operator for this route. Golden Star is particularly competitive on Rafina–Mykonos, Tinos–Andros, and seasonal Mykonos–Santorini routes. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for peak summer sailings.
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 4h 30m, 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.
