Santorini → Crete (Heraklion)
Santorini to Crete runs twice a day in high season, seasonal rather than year-round, so this connection needs more advance planning outside the main months. The SeaJets fast ferry takes 1h45m; the conventional Minoan Lines boat 4h. Wind risk is moderate, tied to Santorini's exposed harbour, and with only two daily departures a cancelled morning sailing can mean losing most of a day, so build in a spare afternoon before anything booked in Heraklion or Chania.
Wind & disruption risk: Moderate · 117 km (63 nautical miles)
Ferry options
At the port
Ferries leave Athinios, Santorini's port, 10km from Fira, and arrive at Heraklion, just 1km from central Crete, an easy walk or short taxi. Arrive an hour early given the limited daily sailings. The conventional Minoan Lines service takes cars, useful for continuing overland into Crete; the SeaJets fast catamaran generally does not on this route.
Who sails it
- SeaJets Official timetable
- Minoan Lines Official timetable
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Santorini to Crete (Heraklion)?
The quickest crossing takes 1h 45m. Conventional 4h 00m.
How far is Crete (Heraklion) from Santorini?
The crossing covers 117 km, or 63 nautical miles.
How many ferries a day run from Santorini to Crete (Heraklion)?
Around 2 departures a day in high season. Summer season only.
How much does the ferry from Santorini to Crete (Heraklion) 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 Santorini to Crete (Heraklion)?
Ferries leave Athinios, Santorini's port, 10km from Fira, and arrive at Heraklion, just 1km from central Crete, an easy walk or short taxi. Arrive an hour early given the limited daily sailings. The conventional Minoan Lines service takes cars, useful for continuing overland into Crete; the SeaJets fast catamaran generally does not on this route.
Same-day connection?
Santorini to Crete runs twice a day in high season, seasonal rather than year-round, so this connection needs more advance planning outside the main months. The SeaJets fast ferry takes 1h45m; the conventional Minoan Lines boat 4h. Wind risk is moderate, tied to Santorini's exposed harbour, and with only two daily departures a cancelled morning sailing can mean losing most of a day, so build in a spare afternoon before anything booked in Heraklion or Chania.
Times, prices and frequencies are indicative and change by season and operator. Always confirm the live timetable before you book.