How to get to Koufonisia: ferries from Piraeus, Rafina and Naxos
Little Koufonisia is one of the most sought-after spots in the Cyclades, but it has no airport. Here is how to get there from Athens or Naxos, and how long it takes.
- Koufonisia has no airport; you arrive only by ferry.
- From Piraeus: high-speed in about 4 hours, or a conventional ferry in up to about 9.5 hours. From Rafina, about 7.5 hours.
- Book early for August; summer has up to about 4 sailings a day.
The fastest route is a high-speed boat from Piraeus. If you fly, go to Naxos and take a short crossing from there. Leave a buffer for the return, since strong winds cancel sailings.
Does Koufonisia have an airport?
No. Koufonisia (two small islands: Upper Koufonisi, where most tourism is, and Lower Koufonisi) lies between Naxos and Amorgos and is reached only by sea. The nearest airport is on Naxos. Figures here are based on Dave's Travel Pages and previous seasons' timetables, so always check the current schedule on Ferryhopper.
How do you get to Koufonisia from Athens?
| Departure | Operator (previous seasons) | Approximate crossing |
|---|---|---|
| Piraeus | SeaJets (high-speed) | about 4 hours |
| Piraeus | Blue Star Ferries (conventional) | up to about 9.5 hours |
| Rafina | Ekaterini P. | about 7.5 hours |
In summer there are up to about 4 sailings a day across all ports, with fares from about €43 one way (Dave's Travel Pages). Frequency drops sharply in winter.
How do you get to Koufonisia from Naxos?
Naxos has short connections to Koufonisia, some via the Small Cyclades (Iraklia, Schinoussa). This is a good option if you fly to Naxos or are island-hopping. Getting to Naxos: Athens to Naxos ferry; combining neighbours: Mykonos, Paros and Naxos ferries.
When should you book a Koufonisia ferry?
In July and August, especially at weekends and mid-August, high-speed seats sell out early and accommodation on the island is limited. Book a few weeks ahead and match dates with your hotel. Shoulder season (June, September) is easier.
Tips before you go
- Wind: strong meltemi winds sometimes cancel high-speed boats. Do not book your flight home for the day you leave the island.
- On the island: Upper Koufonisi is small; get around on foot, by bike or by beach boat.
- Strikes: check today's strike updates before travel day.
- More in the area: our Cyclades guide.
Fly to Naxos or take a direct ferry?
A direct ferry from Piraeus is simplest; flying to Naxos shortens the trip but adds a transfer and two bookings. Many visitors combine Paros or Naxos first. Either way, keep a night in Athens or Naxos before your flight home.
FAQ
How long does it take to get to Koufonisia from Athens? About 4 hours by high-speed boat from Piraeus; a conventional ferry can take up to about 9.5 hours.
Can you fly to Koufonisia? Not directly. Fly to Naxos and continue by ferry.
How much is the ferry to Koufonisia? In previous seasons fares started from about €43 one way, varying by company, vessel and date.
Are there ferries to Koufonisia in winter? Yes, but far fewer. Check the current timetable before fixing dates.
