
The ferry from Heraklion to Santorini is a popular route for travelers, and for good reason - it's a stunning journey that offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
The ferry ride typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the type of ferry and the route taken.
You can catch the ferry from Heraklion's port, which is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to get to from most hotels and tourist areas.
Ferries from Heraklion to Santorini usually operate from April to October, with the most frequent departures during the peak summer months.
Tickets and Pricing
The prices of ferry tickets from Heraklion to Santorini can range between $173 and $690, depending on the operator, season, and whether you're traveling with a vehicle.
The average price of a foot passenger is $347, while the average price with a car is $610.
Prices can vary depending on the season and operator, so it's always a good idea to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deal.
Here's a rough idea of what you can expect to pay for a ferry ticket from Heraklion to Santorini:
Infants and children up to four years old can usually travel for free, making this a great option for families.
Tickets & Pricing
Tickets and pricing can be a bit confusing, but let's break it down. The prices of ferry tickets vary greatly depending on the operator, season, and whether you're traveling with a vehicle.
You can expect to pay between $173 and $690 for a one-way ticket from Heraklion to Santorini, depending on the operator and season. The average price for a foot passenger is $347, while car prices can range from $282 to $1,023.
One-way ticket prices from Crete (Heraklion) cost between €79 and €95.70, depending on the vessel and seat type. This is a more straightforward pricing structure, but still has some variation.
Infants and children up to four years old can usually travel for free, which is a nice perk. However, this only applies to certain ferry options.
Here's a rough breakdown of the prices you can expect to pay:
- Foot passenger: $173-$632
- Car: $282-$1,023
- Average price for foot passenger: $347
- Average price with car: $610
High-Speed Connectivity

High-Speed Connectivity is a game-changer for travelers in Greece. You can travel with a fast ferry from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini, which is a great option for those short on time.
The Crete - Santorini ferry route is mainly operated by high-speed ferries. This type of ferry is designed to get you to your destination quickly and efficiently.
The journey typically lasts about 1 hour and 50 minutes. This is a significant time savings compared to slower ferries.
Traveling by high-speed ferry is a convenient and relatively quick way to get to Santorini from Crete.
Ticket Pickup Locations
You can pick up ferry tickets at the port on the day of your departure, but it's a good idea to collect your paper tickets at least one hour in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
If you've booked tickets in advance online on Ferryhopper.com, you can either get an e-ticket or a paper ticket that you'll need to collect at the port.

Your confirmation email will have more complete information about whether you need to pick up a ticket and where to do so.
You can collect your paper tickets at the port, and it's a good idea to check your confirmation email for specific details about the pickup location and time.
Ferry Schedule and Route
The ferry schedule from Heraklion to Santorini is quite flexible, with multiple options available throughout the year.
During the summer months, there are up to 3 ferries per day from the port of Heraklion to Santorini. In contrast, during the winter, there are usually 2 weekly ferries from Crete to Santorini.
You can get a ferry from Heraklion to Santorini all year round, but the frequency of departures does change depending on the season.
There are 29 ferries departing each week from Heraklion to Santorini, with different ferry companies offering varying numbers of sailings per week. Golden Star Ferries provide up to 7 weekly sailings, while SeaJets offer up to 2 weekly sailings.
Here's a breakdown of the ferry companies and their weekly sailings:
The ferry time from Heraklion, Crete to Santorini (Thera) is between 1h 50m - 3h 10m depending on the ferry company and the type of vessel you travel with.
Ferry Details
You can travel in first class from Crete to Santorini on ferries from Heraklion to Santorini with Anek Lines, Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries, Minoan Lines and SeaJets.
The ferry time from Heraklion, Crete to Santorini (Thera) is between 1h 50m and 3h 10m, depending on the ferry company and the type of vessel you travel with.
Booking tickets on Ferryscanner will let you know which route is the fastest, so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Availability of Cabins Between Thira
Yes, you can book cabins on the ferry between Heraklion and Thira (Santorini), providing a comfortable and private space for passengers during their journey.
The ferry route between Heraklion and Thira (Santorini) offers cabins on board, giving you a chance to relax and unwind during your trip.
You can expect the ferry journey to take between 1h 50m - 3h 10m, depending on the ferry company and the type of vessel you travel with.
The distance between Heraklion, Crete and Santorini (Thera) is approximately 103.27 kilometers (64.17 miles).
Are Pets Allowed?
If you're planning a trip to Santorini with your furry friend, you'll be happy to know that pets are welcome on the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini.
To ensure a smooth journey, make sure your pet has had the necessary vaccinations before traveling and have proof of such with a medical certificate.
SeaJets and Anek Lines are two ferry operators that allow pets on board, so be sure to check with them for specific pet policies and any additional requirements.
Book Cheap Tickets
You can book your ferry tickets from Heraklion to Santorini online on Ferryhopper.
The cost of a one-way ticket from Crete (Heraklion) ranges from €79 to €95.70, depending on the vessel and seat type.
To book tickets in advance, visit Ferryhopper.com and follow the instructions.
Your confirmation email will have more complete information on collecting your tickets, if needed.
You can also check the Ferryhopper Map of ferries to see all the available ferry connections, compare ferry companies and prices, and book your ferry trip with confidence.
Travel Options and Tips
Traveling from Heraklion to Santorini can be a bit of a challenge, but don't worry, I've got some tips to make your journey smoother.
The port of Heraklion can get crowded during the summer, so it's a good idea to arrive at least 1 hour in advance of your departure to avoid queuing.
To minimize the risk of seasickness, consider asking the ferry crew for some aspirin or carrying anti-nausea pills with you.
If you're planning to stay in Santorini for longer, book your accommodation as early as possible – about 3-4 months in advance is a good rule of thumb.
Here are some key details to keep in mind when booking your ferry ride:
- Ferry crossing time: approximately 1 hour 55 minutes
- Ferry price: $166 on average (exclusive of booking fees)
- Popular ferry operators: 2 options available
- Travel options: foot passenger, car travel, and pets are permitted
Can I Travel?
You can travel in first class from Crete to Santorini on ferries from Heraklion to Santorini with Anek Lines, Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries, Minoan Lines, and SeaJets.
If you're planning to travel with a car, you're in luck - most ferries from Heraklion to Santorini allow vehicle transfer.
The cost of transferring your vehicle can range between €60 and €189, depending on the type of vehicle, the ferry company, and the season.
You can choose from conventional or high-speed ferries for your vehicle transfer.
Day Trip
You can do a day trip from Crete to Santorini and it's definitely worth it. The first ferry from Heraklion will get you to Santorini before 10:00, giving you a full day to explore the island.
Santorini's breathtaking views are a must-see, and you can walk through its blue-domed churches to experience the island's unique charm. Don't forget to get back to Heraklion by evening to catch the last ferry.
If you'd rather not plan your day trip on your own, you can opt for an organized holiday package that includes Crete, Santorini, and other destinations in the Cyclades.
Trip Tips
As you plan your trip to Santorini, it's essential to arrive at the port of Heraklion with plenty of time to spare. Arrive at least 1 hour in advance of your departure to avoid queuing.
You'll want to be prepared for the ferry ride itself. Ferry rides can be bumpy during the summer, so if you're prone to seasickness, be sure to ask the ferry crew for some aspirin or carry anti-nausea pills.
Once you arrive at the port of Santorini, you'll notice it's small and can get very crowded in high season. Be prepared for a bustling atmosphere and consider checking our helpful guide for the port of Santorini.
If you're planning to stay on the island for longer, book your accommodation as early as possible – about 3-4 months in advance. This will give you the best chance of securing a spot at a hotel or villa of your choice.
Most Popular Questions
The ferry crossing time from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) is approximately 1 hour 55 minutes.
The sailing duration may vary from season to season and by operator, so it's a good idea to do a live check using a deal finder to get the most up-to-date information.
The average price of a ferry from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) is $166, price exclusive of booking fees.
You can travel as a foot passenger from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) with one of the two popular ferry operators.
You can also travel on the ferry with a car from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) with one of these operators.
Pets are permitted onboard the ferry, but you may need a pet passport and should check the ferry operators' pet guidelines.
Here are the two popular ferry operators for the route:
- Operator 1
- Operator 2
The distance from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) is 59 nautical miles.
Ferry to Santorini
The ferry to Santorini is a great way to start your Greek adventure! Thira ferry port is a gateway to exploring the island's rich history and breathtaking views.
You can easily hop on a bus from the port to Fira, the island's buzzing capital, or rent a vehicle to traverse the scenic routes at your own pace. The port also offers connections to other Greek islands and mainland destinations, making island-hopping a breeze.
Cabin accommodations are available on the ferry between Heraklion and Thira (Santorini), providing a comfortable and private space for passengers during their journey.
The island's wineries offer a taste of the local culture, while the Archaeological Museum of Thira showcases artefacts that tell tales of a bygone era.
Thira, or Santorini, offers a mesmerising backdrop to the Aegean Sea's endless blue, with stunning volcanic landscapes and iconic whitewashed buildings.
Sources
- https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/ferry-routes/direct/heraklion-to-santorini
- https://www.directferries.com.au/heraklion_thira_ferry.htm
- https://www.greeka.com/cyclades/santorini/travel/heraklion-to-santorini/
- https://www.ferryscanner.com/en/ferry-routes/ferry-heraklion-crete-santorini-thera
- https://santorinidave.com/crete-to-santorini
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