How do I book ferry tickets from Athens to Paros?

Open the main Ferry tickets page on Discover Cyclades, set Paros as the destination, and choose Piraeus (or Rafina if that sailing fits your flight). Compare operators such as Blue Star, SeaJets, and Golden Star, then complete checkout, you'll receive an e-ticket. For Athens port choice and overland timing, read the blog posts Athens to the Cyclades, How to book ferry tickets in the Cyclades, and the Cyclades ferry guide. The site also has route overviews for Piraeus to Paros and Rafina to Paros with typical durations and price bands.

Piraeus or Rafina, which is better for ferries to Paros?

Piraeus has the broadest range of Paros departures and suits most people staying in central Athens. Rafina is closer to Athens International Airport for some inbound flights and can be faster from kerb to pier when the schedule works. There's no universal winner: compare the same travel date on both Piraeus–Paros and Rafina–Paros, then pick the sailing that matches your hotel and flight times.

How long is the ferry from Athens to Paros, and what does it cost?

Piraeus to Paros usually takes roughly three and a half to four and a half hours on conventional ferries, less on some high-speed services, depending on the ship. Rafina to Paros is often a bit shorter at sea but varies by operator. Fares change by season, seat class, and advance purchase, economy is typically a few dozen euros, with July and August and high-speed legs at the high end. Use live search on the Ferry tickets hub for the exact day you need.

How do I get ferry tickets from Naxos or Mykonos to Paros?

The Naxos–Paros leg is a short, frequent inter-island hop; search Naxos to Paros in the ticket finder. From Mykonos, use the Mykonos to Paros route. Book a few days ahead in high season. If you're still choosing a base, the Paros vs Naxos article explains trade-offs, and the main Cyclades ferry guide covers multi-leg island hopping.

Can I take a car on the ferry to Paros, or book for a family?

Most large conventional ferries take cars on the vehicle deck, you must add a vehicle at booking and arrive earlier at the gate. Many high-speed catamarans are passenger-only: check the vessel type. The Cyclades ferry guide explains vehicle rules in more detail. Summer vehicle space sells out, so book early. After you land in Parikia, a Paros car rental is the usual way to reach Naoussa and the beaches on your own schedule. Passenger counts in one booking are handled like any other group ticket.

Which port does the ferry to Paros use, and how do I get to my hotel?

Mainline ferries use Parikia, Paros' principal port. Buses, taxis, and pre-arranged rental pick-ups meet arrivals there. Many visitors stay in Naoussa or at beaches: allow 10–20 minutes by road. The where to stay in Paros guide breaks down areas. The small Antiparos shuttle from Pounda is separate from the big-ferry port, see Antiparos vs Paros if you're planning that side trip.

What if my ferry to Paros is cancelled because of wind or delay?

Operators usually rebook passengers onto the next available sailing or refund when they cancel, especially in Meltemi weather. Check email and texts from the line, arrive at the port with buffer time, and search the same day on the Ferry tickets hub for alternative departures. If you connect from a flight, leave a spare day in Athens or on the previous island. The main Cyclades ferry guide has more on seasons and plan-B thinking.

Which ferry company is most reliable for Athens to Paros?

Blue Star and other large conventional ferries are often the most weather-robust on longer legs. SeaJets and other high-speed services save time but can be more sensitive to wind. The best choice is the ship that matches your date, budget, and comfort: compare the same day on the booking hub, then read the Cyclades ferry guide and the dedicated booking guide (How to book Greek ferries) for the trade-offs.

How much does a ferry to Santorini cost from Athens?

Ferry tickets from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini start at €46.50 for economy class on Blue Star Ferries. High-speed ferries like SeaJets cost €80-95. Prices vary by season, with July-August being most expensive.

How long is the ferry from Athens to Santorini?

The Athens to Santorini ferry takes 4h 50m to 8h depending on the vessel. High-speed ferries (SeaJets, Hellenic Seaways) take 4h 50m - 5h 30m. Conventional ferries (Blue Star, Fast Ferries) take 7-8 hours but are cheaper.

How early should I book ferry tickets?

For peak season (July-August), book 2-4 weeks in advance. Vehicle tickets sell out fastest. Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) is more flexible with 1 week advance booking usually sufficient. Winter has daily availability.

Can I take a car on the ferry?

Yes, most conventional ferries and some high-speed ferries accept vehicles. Car tickets cost €95-130 for Athens-Santorini. Motorcycles cost €32-50. Book vehicle tickets early as they sell out quickly, especially in summer.

What if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?

If your ferry is cancelled due to strong winds (common in July-August Meltemi season), you receive a full refund or free rebooking on the next available departure. The ferry company will notify you via email/SMS.

High-speed vs conventional ferry - which should I choose?

High-speed ferries are 40-50% faster but cost more and have less outdoor space. Conventional ferries are cheaper, have open decks, restaurants, and cabins for overnight trips. Choose high-speed for short trips, conventional for comfort and budget.

How do I check in for my ferry?

Most Greek ferries accept e-tickets on your phone. Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure (90 minutes with a vehicle). Show your e-ticket at the boarding gate. No paper ticket collection needed.

Which Greek ferry companies serve the Cyclades?

Major operators include Blue Star Ferries (conventional), SeaJets (high-speed), Golden Star Ferries (high-speed), Hellenic Seaways (both), Fast Ferries (conventional), ANEK Lines, Aegean Sea Lines, and Zante Ferries.

What is the cheapest ferry to the Greek islands?

The cheapest Cyclades ferry route is Ios to Santorini from just €6.50 (20-minute trip). Athens to nearby Kea costs €15 from Lavrio port. Conventional ferries like Blue Star offer the best value for longer routes.

Can I bring luggage on Greek ferries?

Yes, ferries have generous luggage allowances. Blue Star allows 50kg per passenger. SeaJets allows 50kg single luggage. Most ferries have no strict limits. Store luggage in designated areas on the car deck or passenger lounges.

Can I travel with pets on Greek ferries?

Yes, most Greek ferries allow pets free of charge when included in your booking. Pets must stay in designated outdoor areas or pet-friendly zones. Some companies require pets in carriers for high-speed vessels.

What are the main ferry ports in Athens?

Athens has 3 ferry ports: Piraeus (main port, 15km from center), Rafina (30min from airport, serves Andros/Tinos/Mykonos), and Lavrio (serves Kea/Kythnos). Piraeus has the most connections to all Cyclades islands.

Is there WiFi on Greek ferries?

Yes, most modern ferries offer WiFi, though speeds vary. Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets have WiFi hotspots. Signal can be weak mid-journey. Download entertainment before boarding for longer trips.

Are there cabins on ferries to the Greek islands?

Conventional ferries like Blue Star offer cabins for overnight routes. Options include 2-bed, 4-bed, and shared dormitory cabins. Cabin prices start at €93 for Athens-Santorini. High-speed ferries do not have cabins due to shorter trip times.

What happens if I miss my ferry?

If you miss your ferry, your ticket is typically void. Some companies offer rebooking for a fee. Travel insurance may cover missed connections. Always arrive early and factor in Athens traffic, especially for Piraeus port.

Can I island hop between Cyclades islands?

Yes! The Cyclades have excellent inter-island connections. Popular hops include Mykonos-Santorini (2h, €82), Paros-Naxos (30min, €8), Santorini-Ios (20min, €6.50). Book a multi-stop itinerary for the best island hopping experience.

When is the best time to take ferries in Greece?

May-June and September-October offer ideal conditions: calm seas, good weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds. July-August has the most frequent services but also Meltemi winds that can cause cancellations. Winter has limited schedules.

How do I get from Athens Airport to Piraeus port?

Take the X96 express bus (€6, 60-90min, runs 24/7) directly from the airport to Piraeus. Alternatively, take the Metro Line 3 to Monastiraki, then Line 1 to Piraeus (€10, 60min). Taxis cost €50-70.

Cyclades ferry hub · 252 routes · 3 Athens ports

Ferry Tickets to the Cyclades.

Compare prices and book ferry tickets to Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros and all Greek islands

No booking fees
Instant e-tickets
All ferry operators

Folegandros Kythnos Amorgos Koufonisia Anafi Kimolos Donousa Andros Rafina Mykonos Tinos Paros Naxos Santorini Syros Lavrio Kea Milos Sifnos Serifos Ios

Gold dots: Athens ports. Bright arcs: the busiest crossing from each port on the sample day.Coastlines © OpenStreetMap contributors, Natural Earth

Direct routes: 252
Islands: 24
Athens ports: 3
Operators: 16
Routes with sampled times: 119
Timetable sample: 2026-08-12 to 2026-08-15

Source: Discover Cyclades route catalogue and a one-day Ferryhopper timetable sample per route (not live). · sampled 2026-08-12 to 2026-08-15

01Athens ports

Pick your port.

Athens has three ferry ports serving the Greek islands. Piraeus is the main port located 15km from Athens center, offering the most connections to all Cyclades islands including Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros. Rafina is 30 minutes from Athens Airport and serves Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos with faster connections. Lavrio serves Kea and Kythnos, ideal for quick weekend escapes.

Port code PIR

Piraeus

Athens' main ferry port: the most daily sailings and the largest ships, to every corner of the Cyclades.

Getting there: Direct metro line from central Athens.

Destinations: 21
Operators: 5

Fastest sampled crossings from Piraeus
To	Fastest	From
Piraeus to Kythnos	1 h 35 min	€49.70
Piraeus to Serifos	2 h	€37
Piraeus to Syros	2 h	€46.50
Piraeus to Tinos	2 h 25 min	€50
Piraeus to Milos	2 h 30 min	€41
Piraeus to Sifnos	2 h 30 min	€40.50

All 21 routes from Piraeus

Port code RAF

Rafina

The east-coast port, often the quicker mainland port for Andros, Tinos, Mykonos and Paros.

Getting there: About 30 to 40 minutes by road from Athens Airport.

Destinations: 7
Operators: 3

Fastest sampled crossings from Rafina
To	Fastest	From
Rafina to Andros	50 min	€24.50
Rafina to Tinos	1 h 30 min	€28.70
Rafina to Mykonos	1 h 40 min	€38
Rafina to Paros	3 h 15 min	€43
Rafina to Naxos	3 h 40 min	€43
Rafina to Santorini	5 h 20 min	€82

All 7 routes from Rafina Rafina ferry hub

Port code LAV
Lavrio
A smaller port on the south-east coast of Attica, the closest mainland port to Kea and Kythnos.
Getting there: South-east Attica, reached by road from Athens.
Destinations
8
Operators
5
Fastest sampled crossings from Lavrio
To Fastest From
Lavrio to Kea 1 h €15
Lavrio to Kythnos 1 h 10 min €20
All 8 routes from Lavrio Lavrio ferry hub

Fastest sampled crossings from Lavrio
To	Fastest	From
Lavrio to Kea	1 h	€15
Lavrio to Kythnos	1 h 10 min	€20

Getting to Piraeus from Athens Airport:

X96 Express Bus: €6, runs 24/7, takes 60-90 minutes
Metro: €10, change at Monastiraki, takes 60 minutes
Taxi: €50-70, takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic

Rafina or Piraeus?

If you land at Athens Airport and head for Mykonos, Tinos or Andros, compare the same date from Rafina and Piraeus before you book. Our port guide walks through the trade-offs.

Rafina or Piraeus: our port guide

02Busiest crossings

Popular crossings.

The 16 routes with the most sailings on their sample day. Sort by time, fare or sailings, open a route for its timetable, or check live fares on Ferryhopper.

All 252 routes

Busiest Cyclades ferry crossings: fastest crossing (hours, minutes), lowest adult fare (EUR) and sailings on the sample day
				Operators
Mykonos to Tinos	15 min	€10	14	Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries, Seajets, Blue Star Ferries
Naxos to Paros	25 min	€15.50	11	Seajets, Blue Star Ferries, Golden Star Ferries
Rafina to Mykonos	1 h 40 min	€38	11	Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries, Seajets
Rafina to Tinos	1 h 30 min	€28.70	11	Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries
Tinos to Mykonos	15 min	€10	11	Golden Star Ferries, Seajets, Fast Ferries
Mykonos to Naxos	35 min	€36	9	Golden Star Ferries, Seajets
Paros to Mykonos	35 min	€36	9	Golden Star Ferries, Seajets, Fast Ferries
Paros to Naxos	25 min	€15.50	9	Seajets, Blue Star Ferries, Fast Ferries
Andros to Mykonos	1 h 10 min	€21	8	Seajets, Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries
Andros to Tinos	40 min	€19	8	Seajets, Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries
Mykonos to Paros	35 min	€36	8	Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries
Naxos to Santorini	1 h 5 min	€31.50	8	Blue Star Ferries, Seajets
Paros to Santorini	1 h 30 min	€33	8	Seajets, Golden Star Ferries, Blue Star Ferries
Rafina to Andros	50 min	€24.50	8	Fast Ferries, Seajets, Golden Star Ferries
Santorini to Paros	1 h 45 min	€33	8	Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Golden Star Ferries
Tinos to Andros	40 min	€19	8	Fast Ferries, Seajets, Golden Star Ferries

Source: Ferryhopper timetable sample, one day per route. Fares and times change by date: check the live search. · sampled 2026-08-12 to 2026-08-15

All 252 routes

03Island ferry hubs

Where do you want to go?

Every island has its own ferry page: Athens ports, island hops, fastest crossing and lowest fare from the sample.

Every island ferry hub

04Island hopping

Island to island, at a glance.

180 direct inter-island routes in our catalogue. Read across from your island to see the fastest sampled crossing to the next one.

Fastest sampled crossing between the 12 best-connected islands (row: from, column: to)
From ↓ / To →	Amorgos	Folegandros	Ios	Koufonisia	Milos	Mykonos	Naxos	Paros	Santorini	Sifnos	Syros	Tinos
Amorgos	—	Amorgos to Folegandros ferry: view	Amorgos to Ios ferry: view	Amorgos to Koufonisia ferry: 25 min	No direct route	Amorgos to Mykonos ferry: 2 h 50 min	Amorgos to Naxos ferry: 1 h 10 min	Amorgos to Paros ferry: view	Amorgos to Santorini ferry: 1 h 15 min	No direct route	Amorgos to Syros ferry: view	No direct route
Folegandros	Folegandros to Amorgos ferry: view	—	Folegandros to Ios ferry: 30 min	No direct route	Folegandros to Milos ferry: 1 h	No direct route	Folegandros to Naxos ferry: 3 h 20 min	Folegandros to Paros ferry: view	Folegandros to Santorini ferry: 1 h 20 min	Folegandros to Sifnos ferry: view	No direct route	No direct route
Ios	Ios to Amorgos ferry: view	Ios to Folegandros ferry: 1 h 20 min	—	No direct route	Ios to Milos ferry: 2 h 50 min	Ios to Mykonos ferry: 1 h 30 min	Ios to Naxos ferry: 45 min	Ios to Paros ferry: 55 min	Ios to Santorini ferry: 35 min	No direct route	Ios to Syros ferry: view	No direct route
Koufonisia	Koufonisia to Amorgos ferry: 25 min	No direct route	No direct route	—	Koufonisia to Milos ferry: view	Koufonisia to Mykonos ferry: view	Koufonisia to Naxos ferry: view	Koufonisia to Paros ferry: view	Koufonisia to Santorini ferry: view	No direct route	No direct route	No direct route
Milos	No direct route	Milos to Folegandros ferry: 1 h	Milos to Ios ferry: 1 h 40 min	Milos to Koufonisia ferry: view	—	Milos to Mykonos ferry: view	Milos to Naxos ferry: 4 h	Milos to Paros ferry: 1 h 45 min	Milos to Santorini ferry: 2 h 30 min	Milos to Sifnos ferry: 40 min	Milos to Syros ferry: 9 h 55 min	No direct route
Mykonos	Mykonos to Amorgos ferry: 2 h 5 min	No direct route	Mykonos to Ios ferry: 1 h 25 min	Mykonos to Koufonisia ferry: 1 h 30 min	Mykonos to Milos ferry: 2 h 45 min	—	Mykonos to Naxos ferry: 35 min	Mykonos to Paros ferry: 35 min	Mykonos to Santorini ferry: 2 h 10 min	No direct route	Mykonos to Syros ferry: 40 min	Mykonos to Tinos ferry: 15 min
Naxos	Naxos to Amorgos ferry: 1 h 10 min	Naxos to Folegandros ferry: view	Naxos to Ios ferry: 40 min	Naxos to Koufonisia ferry: 35 min	Naxos to Milos ferry: 4 h 35 min	Naxos to Mykonos ferry: 35 min	—	Naxos to Paros ferry: 25 min	Naxos to Santorini ferry: 1 h 5 min	Naxos to Sifnos ferry: 3 h 45 min	Naxos to Syros ferry: view	No direct route
Paros	Paros to Amorgos ferry: 1 h 45 min	Paros to Folegandros ferry: view	Paros to Ios ferry: 1 h	Paros to Koufonisia ferry: 1 h 10 min	Paros to Milos ferry: 1 h 45 min	Paros to Mykonos ferry: 35 min	Paros to Naxos ferry: 25 min	—	Paros to Santorini ferry: 1 h 30 min	Paros to Sifnos ferry: 55 min	Paros to Syros ferry: 45 min	Paros to Tinos ferry: 1 h 5 min
Santorini	Santorini to Amorgos ferry: 1 h 15 min	Santorini to Folegandros ferry: 45 min	Santorini to Ios ferry: 35 min	Santorini to Koufonisia ferry: 1 h 50 min	Santorini to Milos ferry: 1 h 55 min	Santorini to Mykonos ferry: 1 h 50 min	Santorini to Naxos ferry: 1 h 10 min	Santorini to Paros ferry: 1 h 45 min	—	Santorini to Sifnos ferry: view	Santorini to Syros ferry: 3 h 15 min	Santorini to Tinos ferry: view
Sifnos	No direct route	Sifnos to Folegandros ferry: 3 h 40 min	No direct route	No direct route	Sifnos to Milos ferry: 40 min	No direct route	Sifnos to Naxos ferry: view	Sifnos to Paros ferry: 55 min	Sifnos to Santorini ferry: 6 h 5 min	—	Sifnos to Syros ferry: view	No direct route
Syros	Syros to Amorgos ferry: view	No direct route	Syros to Ios ferry: view	No direct route	Syros to Milos ferry: view	Syros to Mykonos ferry: 25 min	Syros to Naxos ferry: 1 h 10 min	Syros to Paros ferry: 1 h 20 min	Syros to Santorini ferry: 2 h 45 min	Syros to Sifnos ferry: view	—	Syros to Tinos ferry: 15 min
Tinos	No direct route	No direct route	No direct route	No direct route	No direct route	Tinos to Mykonos ferry: 15 min	No direct route	Tinos to Paros ferry: 1 h 5 min	Tinos to Santorini ferry: view	No direct route	Tinos to Syros ferry: 15 min	—

"view": route in our catalogue without a timetable sample. "·": no direct route; connect through Paros, Naxos or Santorini.

Source: Ferryhopper timetable sample, one day per route. Fares and times change by date: check the live search. · sampled 2026-08-12 to 2026-08-15

Island Hopping Itineraries

The Cyclades offer excellent inter-island connections. Popular island hopping routes:

Classic Route:: Athens → Mykonos → Santorini → Athens
Beach Lover:: Athens → Paros → Naxos → Koufonisia → Santorini
Off-the-beaten:: Athens → Sifnos → Milos → Folegandros → Santorini
Party Route:: Athens → Mykonos → Ios → Santorini

05Operators

Ferry Companies.

Compare and book tickets from all major Greek ferry operators. Each company offers unique routes and vessel types to match your travel needs.

Seajets
High-speed
187 catalogue routes
Most served Paros · Piraeus · Santorini · Milos
SeaJets (High-Speed)
Fastest ferries in Greece with catamarans reaching 35+ knots. Athens to Santorini in under 5 hours. Business class available. Best for time-conscious travelers.
Blue Star Ferries
Conventional
118 catalogue routes
Most served Piraeus · Paros · Naxos · Santorini
Blue Star Ferries (Conventional)
Greece's largest ferry company. Modern vessels with cabins, restaurants, open decks. Best for overnight trips and vehicle transport. Piraeus to Santorini from €46.50.
Fast Ferries
Conventional
66 catalogue routes
Most served Piraeus · Santorini · Rafina · Folegandros
Golden Star Ferries
High-speed
43 catalogue routes
Most served Mykonos · Rafina · Paros · Tinos
Golden Star Ferries (High-Speed)
Modern high-speed catamarans from Piraeus and Rafina. Excellent service quality. Popular for Mykonos, Paros, Naxos routes.
Small Cyclades Lines
Conventional
21 catalogue routes
Most served Amorgos · Koufonisia · Naxos · Donousa
Aegean Sea Lines
Conventional
8 catalogue routes
Most served Piraeus · Milos · Kimolos · Kythnos
Magic Sea Ferries
Conventional
7 catalogue routes
Most served Serifos · Sifnos · Kythnos · Kimolos
Hellenic Seaways
High-speed
4 catalogue routes
Most served Koufonisia · Naxos · Folegandros · Milos
Maistros Santorini
High-speed
3 catalogue routes
Most served Santorini · Anafi · Sikinos
Anek Lines
Conventional
2 catalogue routes
Most served Piraeus · Milos · Serifos
Goutos Lines
Conventional
2 catalogue routes
Most served Lavrio · Kea · Kythnos
Karystia Travel
Conventional
2 catalogue routes
Most served Lavrio · Kea · Kythnos
Zante Ferries
Conventional
2 catalogue routes
Most served Piraeus · Folegandros · Sikinos
Hoper
Air transfer
1 catalogue routes
Most served Anafi · Santorini
Minoan Lines
Conventional
1 catalogue routes
Most served Milos · Piraeus
Triton Ferries
Conventional
1 catalogue routes
Most served Kea · Lavrio

Route counts: catalogue routes each operator is listed on. Vessel type from our operator data; a company can run both kinds of ship.

Conventional Ferries

Best for comfort & budget

Larger vessels with more deck space
Lower prices, especially for vehicles
Restaurants, bars, and cabins available
Better stability in rough weather

High-Speed Ferries

Best for speed & efficiency

Up to 2x faster travel times
Modern catamarans & hydrofoils
Air-conditioned seating
Perfect for island hopping

06Before you book

How to Book Ferry Tickets.

Book your Greek ferry tickets in 3 simple steps. Our platform compares all operators to find you the best prices.

Search Your Route
Enter your departure port, destination, date and number of passengers. We search all available ferries.
Compare & Choose
View all available ferries with prices, schedules and journey times. Filter by speed or price.
Book & Receive Tickets
Complete your booking securely. Receive e-tickets instantly by email - show on your phone at the port.

Port-day checklist

E-tickets: Book through the search above and your e-tickets arrive by email. Most ferries scan them from your phone at the boarding gate.
Arrival: Be at the port 30 to 60 minutes before departure, or 90 minutes with a vehicle. Allow extra time for Athens traffic to Piraeus.
Luggage: Allowances are generous and most ferries set no strict limit. Leave big bags in the luggage area and keep valuables with you.
Vehicles: Most conventional ferries and some high-speed boats carry cars and motorbikes. Vehicle space sells out first in summer, so book it early.
Pets: Most ferries accept pets added to the booking. They travel in set areas on board, and some high-speed boats ask for a carrier.

Island Hopping Tips

Book high-speed ferries for longer routes
Conventional ferries are cheaper and have outdoor decks
Arrive at port 30-60 min before departure
Check weather forecasts - rough seas may cause delays
Download e-tickets to your phone offline
Consider overnight ferries to save on accommodation

Best Time for Ferry Travel in Greece

Best: May-June & Sept-Oct
Calm seas, pleasant weather, lower prices, fewer crowds. Best overall conditions for ferry travel.
Peak: July-August
Most frequent services but Meltemi winds can cause delays. Highest prices, book 2-4 weeks ahead.
Low: Nov-April
Limited schedules, fewer routes. Blue Star maintains year-round service to major islands.

Ferry Prices to the Cyclades 2026

Greek ferry prices vary by route, operator, and season. Here are current ticket prices from Athens (Piraeus) to popular Cyclades islands:

Indicative fares from Athens and popular hops (EUR, per adult)
Route	Economy From	High-Speed From	Duration
Athens → Santorini	€46.50	€89	4h 50m - 8h
Athens → Mykonos	€37	€65	2h 30m - 5h
Athens → Naxos	€35	€60	3h 45m - 6h
Athens → Paros	€35	€58	3h - 4h 30m
Athens → Milos	€42	€75	4h - 7h
Athens → Ios	€40	€70	4h - 7h
Mykonos → Santorini	€74	€89	1h 55m - 3h
Ios → Santorini	€6.50	€15	20m - 55m

Editorial fare guide, not a live quote. Fares change by date, class and operator: the search above shows the real price for your day.

07Live AIS

Track your ferry on the map.

See ships moving across the Aegean from real AIS positions, check today’s departures from Piraeus, or read the full ferry guide.

08The short guide

Complete Guide to Greek Island Ferries 2026.

Quick Facts: Cyclades Ferry Travel

Main departure port:: Piraeus (Athens)
Cheapest route:: Ios → Santorini from €6.50
Most popular route:: Athens → Santorini
Best booking time:: 2-4 weeks ahead (summer)
Major operators:: Blue Star, SeaJets, Golden Star
E-tickets accepted:: Yes, on all ferries

Greek Ferry Companies Comparison

Eight major ferry companies operate routes to the Cyclades. Each has different strengths:

For route-by-route schedules, pricing bands and booking windows, read our complete Cyclades ferry guide.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions.

Open the main Ferry tickets page on Discover Cyclades, set Paros as the destination, and choose Piraeus (or Rafina if that sailing fits your flight). Compare operators such as Blue Star, SeaJets, and Golden Star, then complete checkout, you'll receive an e-ticket. For Athens port choice and overland timing, read the blog posts Athens to the Cyclades, How to book ferry tickets in the Cyclades, and the Cyclades ferry guide. The site also has route overviews for Piraeus to Paros and Rafina to Paros with typical durations and price bands.
Piraeus has the broadest range of Paros departures and suits most people staying in central Athens. Rafina is closer to Athens International Airport for some inbound flights and can be faster from kerb to pier when the schedule works. There's no universal winner: compare the same travel date on both Piraeus–Paros and Rafina–Paros, then pick the sailing that matches your hotel and flight times.
Piraeus to Paros usually takes roughly three and a half to four and a half hours on conventional ferries, less on some high-speed services, depending on the ship. Rafina to Paros is often a bit shorter at sea but varies by operator. Fares change by season, seat class, and advance purchase, economy is typically a few dozen euros, with July and August and high-speed legs at the high end. Use live search on the Ferry tickets hub for the exact day you need.
The Naxos–Paros leg is a short, frequent inter-island hop; search Naxos to Paros in the ticket finder. From Mykonos, use the Mykonos to Paros route. Book a few days ahead in high season. If you're still choosing a base, the Paros vs Naxos article explains trade-offs, and the main Cyclades ferry guide covers multi-leg island hopping.
Most large conventional ferries take cars on the vehicle deck, you must add a vehicle at booking and arrive earlier at the gate. Many high-speed catamarans are passenger-only: check the vessel type. The Cyclades ferry guide explains vehicle rules in more detail. Summer vehicle space sells out, so book early. After you land in Parikia, a Paros car rental is the usual way to reach Naoussa and the beaches on your own schedule. Passenger counts in one booking are handled like any other group ticket.
Mainline ferries use Parikia, Paros' principal port. Buses, taxis, and pre-arranged rental pick-ups meet arrivals there. Many visitors stay in Naoussa or at beaches: allow 10–20 minutes by road. The where to stay in Paros guide breaks down areas. The small Antiparos shuttle from Pounda is separate from the big-ferry port, see Antiparos vs Paros if you're planning that side trip.
Operators usually rebook passengers onto the next available sailing or refund when they cancel, especially in Meltemi weather. Check email and texts from the line, arrive at the port with buffer time, and search the same day on the Ferry tickets hub for alternative departures. If you connect from a flight, leave a spare day in Athens or on the previous island. The main Cyclades ferry guide has more on seasons and plan-B thinking.
Blue Star and other large conventional ferries are often the most weather-robust on longer legs. SeaJets and other high-speed services save time but can be more sensitive to wind. The best choice is the ship that matches your date, budget, and comfort: compare the same day on the booking hub, then read the Cyclades ferry guide and the dedicated booking guide (How to book Greek ferries) for the trade-offs.
Ferry tickets from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini start at €46.50 for economy class on Blue Star Ferries. High-speed ferries like SeaJets cost €80-95. Prices vary by season, with July-August being most expensive.
The Athens to Santorini ferry takes 4h 50m to 8h depending on the vessel. High-speed ferries (SeaJets, Hellenic Seaways) take 4h 50m - 5h 30m. Conventional ferries (Blue Star, Fast Ferries) take 7-8 hours but are cheaper.
For peak season (July-August), book 2-4 weeks in advance. Vehicle tickets sell out fastest. Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) is more flexible with 1 week advance booking usually sufficient. Winter has daily availability.
Yes, most conventional ferries and some high-speed ferries accept vehicles. Car tickets cost €95-130 for Athens-Santorini. Motorcycles cost €32-50. Book vehicle tickets early as they sell out quickly, especially in summer.
If your ferry is cancelled due to strong winds (common in July-August Meltemi season), you receive a full refund or free rebooking on the next available departure. The ferry company will notify you via email/SMS.
High-speed ferries are 40-50% faster but cost more and have less outdoor space. Conventional ferries are cheaper, have open decks, restaurants, and cabins for overnight trips. Choose high-speed for short trips, conventional for comfort and budget.
Most Greek ferries accept e-tickets on your phone. Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure (90 minutes with a vehicle). Show your e-ticket at the boarding gate. No paper ticket collection needed.
Major operators include Blue Star Ferries (conventional), SeaJets (high-speed), Golden Star Ferries (high-speed), Hellenic Seaways (both), Fast Ferries (conventional), ANEK Lines, Aegean Sea Lines, and Zante Ferries.
The cheapest Cyclades ferry route is Ios to Santorini from just €6.50 (20-minute trip). Athens to nearby Kea costs €15 from Lavrio port. Conventional ferries like Blue Star offer the best value for longer routes.
Yes, ferries have generous luggage allowances. Blue Star allows 50kg per passenger. SeaJets allows 50kg single luggage. Most ferries have no strict limits. Store luggage in designated areas on the car deck or passenger lounges.
Yes, most Greek ferries allow pets free of charge when included in your booking. Pets must stay in designated outdoor areas or pet-friendly zones. Some companies require pets in carriers for high-speed vessels.
Athens has 3 ferry ports: Piraeus (main port, 15km from center), Rafina (30min from airport, serves Andros/Tinos/Mykonos), and Lavrio (serves Kea/Kythnos). Piraeus has the most connections to all Cyclades islands.
Yes, most modern ferries offer WiFi, though speeds vary. Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets have WiFi hotspots. Signal can be weak mid-journey. Download entertainment before boarding for longer trips.
Conventional ferries like Blue Star offer cabins for overnight routes. Options include 2-bed, 4-bed, and shared dormitory cabins. Cabin prices start at €93 for Athens-Santorini. High-speed ferries do not have cabins due to shorter trip times.
If you miss your ferry, your ticket is typically void. Some companies offer rebooking for a fee. Travel insurance may cover missed connections. Always arrive early and factor in Athens traffic, especially for Piraeus port.
Yes! The Cyclades have excellent inter-island connections. Popular hops include Mykonos-Santorini (2h, €82), Paros-Naxos (30min, €8), Santorini-Ios (20min, €6.50). Book a multi-stop itinerary for the best island hopping experience.
May-June and September-October offer ideal conditions: calm seas, good weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds. July-August has the most frequent services but also Meltemi winds that can cause cancellations. Winter has limited schedules.
Take the X96 express bus (€6, 60-90min, runs 24/7) directly from the airport to Piraeus. Alternatively, take the Metro Line 3 to Monastiraki, then Line 1 to Piraeus (€10, 60min). Taxis cost €50-70.

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Frequently Asked Questions.

01How do I book ferry tickets from Athens to Paros?

02Piraeus or Rafina, which is better for ferries to Paros?

03How long is the ferry from Athens to Paros, and what does it cost?

04How do I get ferry tickets from Naxos or Mykonos to Paros?

05Can I take a car on the ferry to Paros, or book for a family?

06Which port does the ferry to Paros use, and how do I get to my hotel?

07What if my ferry to Paros is cancelled because of wind or delay?

08Which ferry company is most reliable for Athens to Paros?

09How much does a ferry to Santorini cost from Athens?

10How long is the ferry from Athens to Santorini?

11How early should I book ferry tickets?

12Can I take a car on the ferry?

13What if my ferry is cancelled due to weather?

14High-speed vs conventional ferry - which should I choose?

15How do I check in for my ferry?

16Which Greek ferry companies serve the Cyclades?

17What is the cheapest ferry to the Greek islands?

18Can I bring luggage on Greek ferries?

19Can I travel with pets on Greek ferries?

20What are the main ferry ports in Athens?

21Is there WiFi on Greek ferries?

22Are there cabins on ferries to the Greek islands?

23What happens if I miss my ferry?

24Can I island hop between Cyclades islands?

25When is the best time to take ferries in Greece?

26How do I get from Athens Airport to Piraeus port?

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