Ios → Santorini
Ios and Santorini are one of the shorter, more frequent Cyclades hops, with five sailings a day in high season, though the route is seasonal, not year-round. The SeaJets fast ferry covers it in 45 minutes; the conventional Blue Star Ferries boat in 1h15m. Wind risk is moderate, mostly tied to Santorini's exposed harbour, so a delayed Ios departure rarely cascades since the crossing itself is short. Half an hour of buffer before an onward connection is usually enough.
Wind & disruption risk: Moderate · 35 km (19 nautical miles)
Ferry options
At the port
Ferries leave Ormos, Ios's port, 2km from the main town, and arrive at Athinios, Santorini's port, 10km below Fira by bus or taxi. Arrive 30 minutes ahead for the fast SeaJets service. The conventional Blue Star Ferries boat is the one that takes cars, though most travellers doing this short hop go on foot. Athinios gets crowded when several boats arrive close together.
Who sails it
- SeaJets Official timetable
- Blue Star Ferries Official timetable
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Ios to Santorini?
The quickest crossing takes 45m. Conventional 1h 15m.
How far is Santorini from Ios?
The crossing covers 35 km, or 19 nautical miles.
How many ferries a day run from Ios to Santorini?
Around 5 departures a day in high season. Summer season only.
How much does the ferry from Ios to Santorini cost?
Fares start near €22 on the cheapest boat and €36 on the quickest. Prices move with season and demand.
How do I get from Ios to Santorini?
Ferries leave Ormos, Ios's port, 2km from the main town, and arrive at Athinios, Santorini's port, 10km below Fira by bus or taxi. Arrive 30 minutes ahead for the fast SeaJets service. The conventional Blue Star Ferries boat is the one that takes cars, though most travellers doing this short hop go on foot. Athinios gets crowded when several boats arrive close together.
Same-day connection?
Ios and Santorini are one of the shorter, more frequent Cyclades hops, with five sailings a day in high season, though the route is seasonal, not year-round. The SeaJets fast ferry covers it in 45 minutes; the conventional Blue Star Ferries boat in 1h15m. Wind risk is moderate, mostly tied to Santorini's exposed harbour, so a delayed Ios departure rarely cascades since the crossing itself is short. Half an hour of buffer before an onward connection is usually enough.
Times, prices and frequencies are indicative and change by season and operator. Always confirm the live timetable before you book.