Santorini (Thira) – Athens (Piraeus)

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Santorini (Thira) – Athens (Piraeus)

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Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) Ferry

What is the best way to get from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)?

Getting a ferry is a great way to get from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus). Ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) are available all year round. This ferry route is operated by 3 ferry companies; Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets. There are currently around 3 daily and 21 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Athens (Piraeus) today.

Santorini to Athens ferry timetable

Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) first ferry: departs Santorini (Thira) at 03:00. 
Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) last ferry: departs Santorini (Thira) at around 22:00. 

Bear in mind that Santorini to Athens (Piraeus) ferry times can vary by season. We recommend checking the latest Santorini to Athens ferry timetable before you book. 

How long is the ferry from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)?

The Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry duration depends on whether you’re travelling on an Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) fast ferry or a conventional ferry. The Santorini to Athens (Piraeus) ferry time is usually around 5 hours 45 minutes on average. 
 
Average Santorini to Athens ferry time: 5 hours 45 minutes  
Fastest ferry crossing to Athens (Piraeus): 5 hours 5 minutes   
Longest ferry crossing to Athens (Piraeus): 11 hours 30 minutes

What is the fastest ferry to Athens (Piraeus) from Santorini?

The Santorini to Athens fast ferry takes 5 hours 5 minutes. Bear in mind, the Santorini to Athens (Piraeus) ferry duration can vary.

Santorini Athens Ferry Schedule

Ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) are provided by 3 ferry companies; Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets. There are a combined total of 3 daily and 21 weekly sailings. Bear in mind, the Santorini Athens ferry timetable can change throughout the seasons, with more options available in the summer months. 

Ferry frequency: the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry runs all year round  

Blue Star Ferries: 2 daily sailings and 11 weekly sailings 

Cyclades Fast Ferries: 1 daily sailing and 3 weekly sailings 

SeaJets: 3 daily sailings and 16 weekly sailings 

Can you do a day trip from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?

With ferries from Santorini to Athens taking around 5 hours 45 minutes, it's not possible to do a Santorini to Athens day trip.

How much is the ferry from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)?

The Santorini to Athens ferry price can vary depending on the ferry company you're travelling with and the season you're travelling in. 

Average Santorini to Athens (Piraeus) ferry cost: £154.99

How far is Santorini (Thira) from Athens (Piraeus)?

Santorini to Athens (Piraeus) distance: approximately 157.8 miles (254.0km) or 137 nautical miles.

Can you take your car on the ferry to Athens (Piraeus) from Santorini (Thira)?

Yes, you can get the ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) with a car.

Car operators: Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets  
Average car price: £353.17  

Can I travel as a foot passenger to Athens (Piraeus) from Santorini (Thira)?

Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry.

Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) foot passenger ferries: Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets  
Average foot passenger price: £116.64  

Can I take my camper on the Santorini (Thira) Athens (Piraeus) ferry?

Yes, you can take your camper on the ferry to Athens (Piraeus) from Santorini (Thira).

Average camper price: £601.20

Are cabins available on the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry?

Yes, cabins are available on the ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus).

Cabin operators: Blue Star Ferries 
SeaJets 

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?  

Pets are allowed on Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferries. However, you must let the ferry company know you are travelling with a pet at the time of your booking.

Pet-friendly operators:  
Blue Star Ferries 
SeaJets 

What will I need when travelling with my pet?  

You will need the following things with you when travelling with your pet on board the Santorini Athens (Piraeus) ferry.

  • Health documents showing your pet’s vaccinations
  • Everything your pet needs for a safe and comfortable journey such as water, food and a lead

Where will my pet stay during the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry crossing?  

Seajets:

  • All vessels have pet-designated areas on board
  • On conventional ships, you’ll find special PET cabins where you can stay with your pet
  • Pets weighing up to 10kg can stay with you if they are in a carrier
  • Price: free 
     

Blue Star Ferries:

  • Pets either travel in pet cabins or in the kennels on the ship’s deck
  • They are not allowed in normal cabins, bars, restaurants and indoor public areas
  • Dogs must wear a muzzle, be on a leash and accompanied by a guardian when on the open deck
  • Special areas for your pet's daily hygiene are available on board
  • Price: free

Travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs on the ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)

You can travel with guide dogs and assistance dogs on the ferry to Athens (Piraeus) from Santorini (Thira) with Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets. However, you must let the ferry company know at the time of booking. You may also have to present any necessary certificates if asked to do so on board.

Everything you need to know about Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?  

We’d recommend booking your ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) in advance to get it at the cheapest price. Prices vary depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re travelling from Athens to Santorini by boat in summer it’s always best to book in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts.  

Do you offer student discount on ferry tickets from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets all year round.  

Onboard the Santorini to Athens ferry 

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?

It depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

How much luggage can I take on the ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?  

The amount of luggage you can take on the Athens to Athens (Piraeus) ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

  • Seajets: up to 50kg 
  • Blue Star Ferries: up to 50kg  
  • Cyclades Fast Ferries: no specific limit 

What facilities are available on board ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on board differ depending on the ferry company. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin.

  • Seajets: The high-speed ferries do not have cabins on board. Instead there is airline-style seating available. You can choose from standard Economy seats or Business/VIP seats for extra comfort and additional amenities.
  • Blue Star Ferries: As well as Economy and airline-style seating, there are also both private and shared cabins available on board including 2, 3 and 4 berth cabins.
  • Cyclades Fast Ferries: There are a range of seats on board including Economy, Business and VIP seats. Inside and outside cabins are available too. 

Is there reduced mobility access on the Santorini to Athens ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on.

  • Seajets: People with reduced mobility can travel on all ferry routes. Just let them know when boarding the ship or at the time of booking.  
  • Blue Star Ferries: Special cabins, priority boarding and wheelchairs are available on board.
  • Cyclades Fast Ferries: Larger vessels may have wheelchair ramps and boarding assistance. However, the smaller vessels may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.

Taking the ferry from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)

How early do I need to arrive at Santorini (Thira) port?  

We recommend arriving at Santorini (Thira) port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my ferry tickets from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)?  

Your ferry ticket will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?

The latest check-in time for your booking should be in your confirmation email.  

  • Blue star ferries: from 48 to 2 hours before the scheduled departure time
  • Seajets: from 48 to 2 hours before the scheduled departure time
  • Cyclades Fast Ferries: up to 30 minutes before scheduled departure time

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Santorini (Thira) - Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Route Summary
OriginCyclades Islands
DestinationAthens
No. of Operators3
OperatorsBlue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets
Average Price£155
Average Daily Sailings3
Average Weekly Sailings21
Average Sailing Duration5 h 45 m
Fastest Sailing Duration5 h 5 m
First Ferry03:00
Last Ferry22:00
Distance137 Nautical Miles

* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 October 2025.

Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Most Popular Questions

Ferry reviews

Santorini Travel Guide

Boasting stunning whitewashed streets, breathtaking caldera views, incredible volcanic beaches and sunsets worthy of your Instagram feed, it's no surprise that Santorini is one of the most popular Cyclades Islands. A must on your Greek Island hopping adventure, this picture-perfect island certainly lives up to the hype. And thanks to regular ferries from destinations such as Athens, Mykonos and Naxos, it's super easy to get to.

Top things to do in Santorini

  • Watch the sunset in Oia: head here early evening and join the crowds in this whitewashed paradise for one of the most beautiful sunsets you'll ever see
  • Visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri: this important archeological site is a must-visit for history lovers
  • Relax at Red Beach: take a scenic stroll along this volcanic sand beach
  • Sail around the caldera: choose from one of Santorini's many boat tours and swim in the hot springs. Some tours also stop at the volcanic crater, giving you the option to hike up it
  • Go wine tasting: enjoy one of the many wine tours on the island and sample the local wines
  • Hike from Fira to Oia: take the scenic walk that connects Santorini's two main towns, stopping off on the way to soak up beautiful views

How to get around Santorini

In the villages, it's best to get around by foot. Local buses connect various destinations on the island including Fira, Oia, Kamari and the port and airport. Most visitors either rent a car, scooter or quad so they can explore the island freely.

About Santorini ferry port

Athinios port is the main ferry port in Santorini. It’s located on the southwest side of the island and serves ferries and high-speed catamarans. Gialos port, which is also known as the Old Port is used for cruise ships and small excursion boats.

How to get to Santorini ferry port

Athinios ferry port is easily accessible from the rest of the island. You can reach the port by bus, taxi or private transfer. It's best to book taxis in advance if you're travelling during peak season.

From Fira:

  • By bus: there are regularly buses between Fira and the port. The journey usually takes around 25 minutes.
  • By car/taxi: the drive from Fira takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

From Oia:

  • By bus: there are no direct buses from Oia. If you wish to travel by bus, you have to change in Fira.
  • By car/taxi: the drive from Oia usually takes about 40 minutes.

Is there parking at Santorini ferry port?

Yes, free parking is available at Santorini ferry port. However, it can get very busy in the summer months.

Santorini ferry port amenities

Facilities are limited at Santorini ferry port, although you will find toilets, a waiting room and a shop.

Santorini port address

Port, Ormos Athinios 847 00, Greece


Piraeus Travel Guide

Located around 10km from Athens, Piraeus is home to Greece’s largest passenger port which serves as a gateway to the beautiful Greek Islands. Although many travellers simply pass through the city, stay a little longer and you’ll soon realise there’s more to Piraeus than just its busy transport hub. This vibrant city has a range of attractions, from museums to markets, shops, restaurants and bars. Just a stone’s throw from the ancient sites of Athens, it’s the perfect starting point to your Greek adventure.

Top things to do in Piraeus

  • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus: browse artefacts from the Mycenaean era to Roman times
  • Explore Kastella Hill: wander through this picturesque neighbourhood in Piraeus with its neoclassical houses and charming narrow streets
  • Check out the Hellenic Maritime Museum: visit Greece’s largest maritime museum and learn about the country’s naval history
  • Stroll around Zea Marina: explore this lively marina lined with shops, restaurants and bars

How to get around Piraeus

The centre of Piraeus is compact so you can easily explore the main streets and attractions by foot. There is also a public bus service connecting the centre with surrounding areas. Alternatively, taxis are available too.

About Piraeus port

Piraeus ferry port is located around 10km southwest of Athens. It’s the biggest port in Greece and also one of the largest in Europe. It’s a busy port, connecting mainland Greece with Greek Islands such as the Cyclades, Saronic and Dodecanese. Ferry companies operating out of the port include Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, Minoan Lines, Anek Lines and Seajets. There are 12 departure gates at the port, with shuttle buses connecting the main ferry gates.

How to get to Piraeus port

From Athens: 
You can get a metro, bus or taxi to Athens (Piraeus) port from Athens town centre. 

  • Metro: Take the M1 green line to Athens (Piraeus) port  
    Duration: 20-30 minutes  
  • Bus: Bus 040 from Syntagma or 049 from Omonoia  
    Duration: approximately 50 minutes
  • Taxi duration: approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic

Is there parking at Piraeus port?

No, parking inside the port is prohibited. However, you can find private parking lots nearby.

Piraeus port amenities

Amenities at Piraeus port include waiting areas, ATMs, currency exchange services, toilets, shops and cafes.

Piraeus port address

10 Akti Miaouli Street, 185 38, Piraeus, Greece

Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus)
Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 27/10/2025 and 02/11/2025

Operator Departure Time Arrival Time Duration Sailing Days
Blue Star Ferries 03:00 09:15 6 hours 15 minutes Thu
Blue Star Ferries 04:35 10:30 5 hours 55 minutes Tue
Blue Star Ferries 08:00 13:35 5 hours 35 minutes Sat
Cyclades Fast Ferries 09:00 19:00 10 hours Mon
Cyclades Fast Ferries 09:00 19:45 10 hours 45 minutes Wed
Cyclades Fast Ferries 09:00 20:25 11 hours 25 minutes Fri
SeaJets 10:00 16:05 6 hours 5 minutes Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat
SeaJets 13:30 19:05 5 hours 35 minutes Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
SeaJets 14:00 19:35 5 hours 35 minutes Sat
SeaJets 14:10 20:05 5 hours 55 minutes Mon, Sun
Blue Star Ferries 15:30 23:20 7 hours 50 minutes Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
Blue Star Ferries 15:45 23:20 7 hours 35 minutes Mon, Wed, Fri

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