Crete (Heraklion) → Santorini
The return from Crete also runs twice daily in high season, seasonal only, with the same moderate wind risk centred on Santorini's harbour approach. Fast ferry 1h45m, conventional 4h. With just two sailings a day, missing one usually means waiting for the next one rather than an immediate alternative, so anyone connecting onward from Santorini, especially to a same-day flight, should take the earlier of the two departures.
Wind & disruption risk: Moderate · 117 km (63 nautical miles)
Ferry options
At the port
Boats leave Heraklion, 1km from central Crete, and arrive at Athinios, Santorini's port, 10km below Fira by a winding bus or taxi transfer. Arrive an hour ahead given the low frequency. Minoan Lines runs the conventional service and takes cars, the practical choice if arriving with a rental from Crete; SeaJets covers the fast crossing but rarely carries vehicles.
Who sails it
- SeaJets Official timetable
- Minoan Lines Official timetable
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Crete (Heraklion) to Santorini?
The quickest crossing takes 1h 45m. Conventional 4h 00m.
How far is Santorini from Crete (Heraklion)?
The crossing covers 117 km, or 63 nautical miles.
How many ferries a day run from Crete (Heraklion) to Santorini?
Around 2 departures a day in high season. Summer season only.
How much does the ferry from Crete (Heraklion) to Santorini cost?
Fares start near €38 on the cheapest boat and €65 on the quickest. Prices move with season and demand.
How do I get from Crete (Heraklion) to Santorini?
Boats leave Heraklion, 1km from central Crete, and arrive at Athinios, Santorini's port, 10km below Fira by a winding bus or taxi transfer. Arrive an hour ahead given the low frequency. Minoan Lines runs the conventional service and takes cars, the practical choice if arriving with a rental from Crete; SeaJets covers the fast crossing but rarely carries vehicles.
Same-day connection?
The return from Crete also runs twice daily in high season, seasonal only, with the same moderate wind risk centred on Santorini's harbour approach. Fast ferry 1h45m, conventional 4h. With just two sailings a day, missing one usually means waiting for the next one rather than an immediate alternative, so anyone connecting onward from Santorini, especially to a same-day flight, should take the earlier of the two departures.
Times, prices and frequencies are indicative and change by season and operator. Always confirm the live timetable before you book.