Athens (Piraeus)
Heraklion
Ferry to Crete
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Open tickets are valid for up to 12 months from booking date (see ticket conditions).

Open Ticket?

Open tickets are valid for up to 12 months from booking date (see ticket conditions).

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Athens to Crete Ferry

The Athens to Heraklion ferry route is provided by 4 operators and runs all year round. The ferry crossing from Athens to Crete is approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes on ferries servicing this route. The duration for the Athens to Crete ferry can range between 8 hours 40 minutes and 17 hours 30 minutes depending on the operator you choose to book with.

Athens to Crete Ferry Schedules

There are 25 weekly sailings from Piraeus to Heraklion. Anek Superfast provide 7 weekly sailings, Minoan Lines provide 14 weekly sailings, Cyclades Fast Ferries provide 3 weekly sailings and Anek Lines provide 1 weekly sailing. Please note that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.

Athens to Crete Ferry Time

The first ferry departs around 09:00 and the last ferry departs at around 21:00. Ferry schedules can vary by operator and season.

Fast Ferry Athens to Crete

The fastest ferry from Athens to Heraklion is with Minoan Lines in 8 hours and 40 minutes.

How much is a fast ferry from Athens to Crete?

The fastest ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Heraklion usually cost around £242.

Can I get an overnight ferry from Athens to Crete

Yes, passengers are able to travel on an overnight ferry from Athens to Crete. Take the ferry at 21:00 from Athens and arrive in Heraklion at 06:30. This service is available every day with Minoan Lines.

Can I reserve a cabin on the Athens Crete ferry?

You can book cabins on ferries from Athens to Crete with Anek Lines, Anek Superfast and Blue Star Ferries.

Are pets allowed on the Athens to Crete ferry?

Yes, pets are welcome on the ferry from Athens to Heraklion with Anek Lines. Those travelling with Anek Lines must know that dogs and cats have dedicated lodgings onboard if necessary. Meanwhile, smaller animals like birds, rabbits and hamsters should be in kept carriers throughout the journey. However, please note that animals are not permitted in any public areas of the ship including lounges.

How much luggage can you take on the ferry from Athens to Crete?

Those travelling with Minoan Lines can take up to 2 pieces of luggage plus a carry-on bag for no additional cost. While Cyclades Fast Ferries do not have a fixed baggage policy in place. However, we suggest that you don't exceed 50kg to avoid any potential charges.

Athens to Crete Ferry Price

The price of a ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion can range between £75 and £492 depending on the operator, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle. The average price of a foot passenger is £148, prices can range between £75 and £315. The average price with a car is £364. Car prices can range between £151 and £659. Prices may vary for other vehicle types. All ferry prices can vary from season to season.

Prices subject to change, pricing representative of searches over last 30 days.

Cheap Ferry Athens to Crete

Find cheap ferry tickets using our deal finder. It is recommended to book in advance for the best possible prices and availability. Please visit our special offers page to keep updated with all the latest discounts on ferries from Athens.

How to get from Athens to Crete

With up to 4 sailings departing per day, you are bound to find an ideal ferry crossing to suit your journey. However, there are 2 alternative ferries to Crete if you require additional flexibility including the Athens to Chania ferry and the Athens to Sitia ferry.

Can I travel in first class from Athens to Crete?

First class is available on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Heraklion with Anek Lines, Anek Superfast, Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries and Minoan Lines.

Can I take a day trip from Athens to Crete?

As the sailing duration is quite long, you can't take a day trip from Athens to Heraklion by ferry. We suggest that you stay at least overnight to make your trip worthwhile.

Athens (Piraeus) to Heraklion Ferry Alternatives

For more information, please visit our Ferries from Athens to Crete page.
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Most popular questions

  • How long is the ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion?

    The ferry crossing time from Piraeus to Heraklion is approximately 10h 40m. Sailing durations may vary from season to season and by operator so we’d advise doing a live check.
  • How much is the ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion?

    Piraeus to Heraklion ferry price can differ depending on the season. The average price of a ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion is £163. Price exclusive of booking fees.
  • Which ferry companies operate between Piraeus to Heraklion?

    There are 5 popular ferry operators for Piraeus to Heraklion. These are
    • Minoan Lines
    • Anek Superfast
    • Anek Lines
    • Anek Superfast
    • Cyclades Fast Ferries
  • How can I book ferry tickets from Piraeus to Heraklion?

    Book ferries from Piraeus to Heraklion through our deal finder and check our offers page to view the latest ferry offers.
  • How far is Heraklion from Piraeus?

    The distance between Piraeus to Heraklion is approximately 168 nautical Miles.

Athens (Piraeus) Heraklion Ferry reviews

  • "Excellent ferry "

    We rented a cabin, everything was clean and worth every cent. There is plenty of restaurants and areas to keep kids occupied. I would definitely come with Minoan in the future.

    'Knossos Palace' travelled on Knossos Palace

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  • "ATHENS TO Heraklion "

    Very relaxing crossing. Comfy cabin and well priced food and beer.

    'Festos Palace' travelled on Festos Palace

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  • "Excellent trip"

    Professional, friendly, good food and service, clean well run ship

    'Festos Palace' travelled on Festos Palace

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  • "Great trip"

    Night time passage. Cabin was excellent, restaurant served good food at a reasonable cost. All very clean and bright

    'Festos Palace' travelled on Festos Palace

    Read More Read Less

Athens to Crete Ferry Guide

Piraeus Port Guide

Piraeus is Greece's main port and the largest in Europe and the third largest in the world. Having recently undergone a refurbishment, facilities at the port have improved and include ATM's, bureau de change, restaurants, cafes, bars and a number of travel agencies selling ferry tickets.

How to get to the port of Piraeus

You can get a ferry from Piraeus port, which is located 12km southwest of Athens city centre. This is easily accessible via car and public transport. The 040-bus departing from Syntagma Square in Athens city centre drops you within walking distance of the passenger terminals. Alternatively, follow Line 1 (Green Line) on the metro for 30 minutes until you reach Monastiraki station.

How to get from Athens to Crete

The most convenient way of travelling from Athens to Crete is by taking the ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion. There are lots of high-speed car ferries available so you can avoid the additional hassle of public transport once you arrive in Crete. Alternatively, you can get a ferry to Chania or Sitia if that's more suitable for your travel plans.


Piraeus to Heraklion Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 25/03/2024 and 31/03/2024


Operator Departure Time Arrival Time Duration Sailing Days
Blue Star Ferries 21:00 06:15 9 hours 15 minutes Everyday
Minoan Lines 21:00 06:30 9 hours 30 minutes Everyday
Blue Star Ferries 21:01 08:15 11 hours 14 minutes Sat
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Visit our customer service page to find useful information on travelling by ferry, our FAQs, and how to contact us for help with your booking