
The ferry from Athens to Chania, Greece is a popular route that offers a unique and scenic journey. The journey takes around 9-10 hours, depending on the type of ferry and the weather conditions.
You can choose from various ferry operators, such as Superjet Ferries and Hellenic Seaways, which offer different classes of service and amenities. Some ferries have restaurants, bars, and shops on board, while others have more basic facilities.
Before booking your ferry ticket, make sure to check the departure and arrival times, as well as the duration of the journey. You can also check the weather forecast to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip.
Ferry Information
The ferry from Athens to Chania is a popular route, and you can take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania all year round.
There is 1 daily crossing, so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Anek Lines is the ferry company that currently operates on this connection, so you can book your ticket with them.
Tickets and Schedules
You can book ferry tickets from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania on Ferryhopper without hidden fees.
Ferry tickets can be booked in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Ferry routes from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania are available on Ferryhopper's Map of ferries, allowing you to compare companies, routes, and prices.
There are around 7 weekly sailings from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania.
Blue Star Ferries provide 1 sailing daily, 7 sailings weekly.
Ferries from Athens to Chania are normally overnight, departing from Piraeus at 21:00 in the off-season and at 22:00 in the high season.
Here's a summary of the ferry schedule:
- Departure time: 21:00 (off-season), 22:00 (high season)
- Arrival time: around 06:30 in the morning
Ride Details
The ferry ride from Athens to Chania is a significant part of your journey, and it's essential to know what to expect.
The Piraeus - Chania ferry trip usually takes 8 hours and 30 minutes, so pack your snacks and entertainment for the ride.
The ferry time from Athens (All Ports) to Chania, Crete can vary depending on the ferry company and the type of vessel you're traveling with, but it's usually between 5 and 9 hours.
You'll have the option to take an overnight ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania, which can be a great way to save time and get some rest. The overnight ferry leaves the port of Piraeus at 21:00 and arrives in Chania at 06:15.
Travel Options
You can transport your vehicle from Athens to Chania on Anek Lines vessels. This is a convenient option for those traveling with a car, motorcycle, or motorhome.
Car-deck spaces sell out fast for this route, so be sure to book your spot well in advance. The prices for vehicle tickets vary depending on the type of vehicle: a car ticket starts at around €85, a motorcycle ticket at around €28, and a motorhome ticket at around €157.
If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, you can travel in first class on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania with Blue Star Ferries.
Can I Travel with a Car?
If you're planning to travel from Athens to Chania with a car, you're in luck because both Anek Lines and Blue Star Ferries allow car transportation on their vessels.
Anek Lines, in particular, offers a convenient way to transport your vehicle, with car tickets starting at around €85. You can also bring your motorcycle on board, with prices starting at around €28.
Motorhome owners can also travel with their vehicles, with tickets starting at around €157. However, be aware that car-deck spaces often sell out quickly, so it's a good idea to book your spot well in advance.
You can choose to travel with Blue Star Ferries as well, which also allows car transportation on their Athens to Chania route.
Here's a quick breakdown of the vehicle ticket prices:
Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of year and availability, so it's always a good idea to check with the ferry operator for the most up-to-date information.
Can I Travel as a Foot Passenger on Ferries?
Traveling as a foot passenger on ferries can be a convenient and cost-effective option for those who don't need to transport vehicles. Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Athens (Piraeus) Chania ferry with Blue Star Ferries.
Some ferry operators offer foot passenger services, but it's essential to check with the specific ferry company for their policies and availability. You can travel as a foot passenger on the Athens (Piraeus) Chania ferry with Blue Star Ferries.
It's always a good idea to confirm with the ferry operator before booking your ticket to ensure they allow foot passengers.
Travel Comfort
Traveling by ferry from Athens to Chania, Greece can be a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The ferry ride typically takes around 6-8 hours, depending on the route and type of ferry.
You can choose from a range of ferry types, including conventional ferries and high-speed ferries. The conventional ferries are larger and can accommodate more passengers and vehicles, while the high-speed ferries are smaller and more agile, but can only carry a limited number of passengers and vehicles.
Onboard amenities include restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as comfortable seating areas and outdoor decks where you can enjoy the sea views. Some ferries even have cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning for a more luxurious experience.
Can I Travel First Class?
Traveling first class can be a game-changer for a comfortable journey.
First class is available on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Chania with Blue Star Ferries, making it a great option for those who want to splurge.
If you're looking to travel in style, consider booking a first class ticket with Blue Star Ferries for a more luxurious experience.
Luggage Allowance

When traveling by ferry, it's essential to know the luggage allowance to avoid any extra fees.
Passengers traveling with Blue Star Ferries are allowed up to 50kg of luggage per person at no extra cost.
You can bring as much luggage as you want, but be aware that exceeding the 50kg limit may result in additional fees.
Travel Tips
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, consider taking a conventional ferry from Piraeus to Chania.
Booking your tickets in advance is crucial if you're traveling during the high season, which runs from May to mid-September.
You can get to many beaches in and around Chania Town using local public buses (KTEL), such as Agia Marina and Balos Lagoon.
Renting a car can give you more freedom to explore the gorgeous beaches of Chania, but you can also take the bus to stunning beaches like Elafonisi, which boasts pink sand.
Route and Distance
The distance between Athens (Piraeus) and Chania is relatively short, coming in at 150 nautical miles or around 277 km.
You can expect the ferry ride to take around 8.5 to 9 hours, which is a decent chunk of time but still manageable for a scenic journey.
The ferry route from Piraeus to Chania typically spans 150 nautical miles, which is equivalent to 173 miles or 278 kilometers.
Distance Between
The distance between Athens and Chania is quite significant, with the port of Piraeus in Athens being 277 kilometers away from Souda port in Chania.
The distance can also be measured in nautical miles, which is a unit of measurement commonly used for sea travel, and it's approximately 150 nautical miles.
You can expect to travel for around 8 to 9 hours if you're taking the ferry from Piraeus to Chania, with the duration varying depending on the route and the type of vessel you're on.
The ferry ride from Piraeus to Chania can take anywhere from 5 to 9 hours, depending on the ferry company and the type of vessel you're traveling with.
The fastest ferry route will always be clearly indicated when booking tickets, so be sure to check that when planning your trip.
The Piraeus - Chania ferry trip usually takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes, which is a significant amount of time to spend on a ferry, but the scenic views of the Greek islands make it well worth it.
Popular Routes

Chania is easily accessible by ferry, with routes available all year round. You can approach Chania by ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens.
Direct routes from other islands of the Aegean Sea to Chania are not available. Ferry schedules may vary each year, but the itineraries for the summer season are announced by the companies in March.
The Blue Star ferry operates from Piraeus to Chania, with two departures per week. You can choose from Economy Lounge/Deck, Air Seats (economy), or Business Lounge.
Here are the ferry schedules from Piraeus to Chania:
- 10:00 Blue Star (8h)
- 22:00 Blue Star (8h30min)
Vehicle transportation is also available, with prices ranging from 15.00€ to 74.00€, depending on the type of vehicle.
Popular and Cheap Options
If you're looking for a cheap ferry from Athens to Chania, you're in luck. Booking in advance is highly recommended to ensure the best possible prices and availability on the Chania ferry.
You can find cheap ferry tickets using a deal finder, which can make the process much easier. It's a great way to compare prices and find the best option for your budget.
Booking early is key, as it will give you the best chance of securing a spot on the Chania ferry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to fly or take a ferry from Athens to Crete?
For a more leisurely and scenic experience, consider taking a ferry from Athens to Crete. However, if you're short on time, flying is a faster option with direct routes to 3 major cities.
Sources
- https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/ferry-routes/direct/athens-to-chania
- https://www.directferries.com/piraeus_chania_ferry.htm
- https://www.ferryscanner.com/en/ferry-routes/ferry-athens-all-ports-chania-crete
- https://www.ferriesingreece.com/routes/athens-to-crete-chania/
- https://www.greeka.com/crete/chania/ferries/
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