Heraklion to Santorini ferry: times, companies and fares
Combining Crete and Santorini is one of Greece's most popular trips. The Heraklion–Santorini route is short but runs mainly in season. Here is what to know.
- A high-speed boat from Heraklion to Santorini takes about 1 hour 50 minutes; a conventional ferry 3–6 hours.
- The route runs roughly late March to mid-October; there is no regular direct winter service.
- Fares: roughly €16–130 one way depending on vessel (Ferries in Greece).
If you combine both islands in summer, you can skip a flight via Athens. In winter the usual way is a flight or a ferry via Piraeus.
How long is the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini?
According to Ferries in Greece, a high-speed boat takes about 1 hour 50 minutes; a conventional ferry takes 3–6 hours depending on the vessel and stops.
| High-speed | Conventional | |
|---|---|---|
| Crossing | about 1h50 | 3–6 hours |
| Companies | Minoan Lines (Santorini Palace), SeaJets | Blue Star Ferries (weekly, overnight) |
| Approximate one-way fare | from about €79 | from about €16 |
The overall range shown is about €16 to about €130 one way, depending on vessel, class and date.
Which months does the Crete–Santorini ferry run?
The route runs roughly from late March to mid-October. In high season there are at least three morning departures, roughly 07:00–10:00, so you can reach Santorini before noon. Outside the season, check whether there is any sailing at all; if not, go via Piraeus or fly. See Athens to Santorini ferry and Athens to Crete ferry.
Where do you depart and arrive?
In Heraklion, Santorini boats usually leave from the port's first piers (I–II), close to the city centre. In Santorini you arrive at Athinios port, about 10 km from Fira, with buses, taxis or pre-booked transfers. The road up from the port winds, and it gets congested when several boats arrive together.
Travel tips
- Weather: the sea between Crete and Santorini is open water; on windy days high-speed boats may be cancelled or rough. If you get seasick, take something beforehand.
- Booking: in summer book days to weeks ahead, especially at weekends.
- Strikes: check strike updates before travel.
- Onward: continuing from Santorini? See Santorini, Mykonos and Ios ferries.
High-speed or conventional?
High-speed saves time but costs more and is rougher in wind; conventional ferries are cheaper and steadier but less frequent. Most rental firms do not allow taking a car between islands, and renting a new car on Santorini is easy.
FAQ
Is there a ferry from Chania to Santorini? The regular, common route leaves from Heraklion. From Chania you usually travel to Heraklion first, about two hours by road.
Can you do a day trip from Crete to Santorini? In summer, yes: agencies sell day trips on the high-speed boat. It is a long day with only a few hours on the island.
Is there a Heraklion–Santorini ferry in winter? Usually not on a regular basis; the route runs roughly late March to mid-October.
How much is the ferry from Crete to Santorini? According to Ferries in Greece, about €16 to €130 one way; high-speed fares start from about €79.
