The fastest ferry to Crete

Just a ferry hop, skip, and a jump away!

On this page, you can find all the information you need about the fastest way to get by ferry to Crete in 2021 and learn about popular ferry crossings and schedules to the island of Crete. Compare routes and ferry companies, plan your trip and buy your ferry ticket to Crete on Ferryhopper.

How long is the ferry ride from Athens to Crete?

When traveling with standard vessels, it usually takes 8.5 to 17 hours to reach the ports of Crete from Athens. But no worries if you're short on time! There is also a high-speed ferry from Athens to Crete that takes you to the beautiful island of Greece in no time!

Find out more details about the high-speed vessel connecting mainland Greece with Crete and see how to travel by ferry to Crete from mainland Greece and the islands.

Tip: Ferry trips to Crete from Athens can be long and they are usually overnight. We recommend that you book a bed cabin for a safer and more comfortable trip. 

The old port of Chania in Crete

The quaint old port of Chania in Crete

Kydon Palace: the fastest ferry to Crete

The high-speed ferry Kydon Palace is the fastest ferry to Crete. It travels once daily from the port of Piraeus (Athens) to Chania (Crete) during the summer months. The service operated by Minoan Lines is normally available from mid-June to the end of September.

Tickets start at €36 and it takes 6.5 hours for the high-speed ferry to Crete to reach the island. The final price depends on the type of ticket, vehicle and cabin selection, as well as Greek ferry ticket discounts.

The fast ferry to Crete (Chania) features WiFi, cabins, a car deck for car, van and motorcycle transfer, as well as restaurants and shops.

Tip: Minoan Lines offers a 20% discount to all Minoan Lines Bonus Club members for all ferry routes from Piraeus Port to Crete.

Book ferry tickets to Chania

Sunset in the Aegean Sea from a ferry to Crete

Watching the sunset on board the ferry to Crete

More popular ferry routes to Crete

If you have already planned your vacation in the Greek islands and you're thinking of going island hopping, you can also catch the ferry to Crete from Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and more Greek destinations.

Most islands are well-connected by ferry with the port of Heraklion, the main port and capital of Crete.

Have a look at some of the most popular ferry routes to Crete and consult our Map of ferries for more info!

  • Ferry from Santorini to Crete: There are at least 2 daily ferries from Santorini to Crete. The service connects the port of Athinios in Santorini with the port of Heraklion in Crete. It only takes 2 hours to reach Crete from Santorini with a high-speed vessel, while the trip duration with standard ferries is around 6 hours. Santorini - Crete ferry tickets start at €25.
  • Ferry from Naxos to Crete: Normally, you can catch a ferry from Naxos to Crete twice per day. Ferries depart from the port of Naxos and arrive at the port of Heraklion. The high-speed ferry to Crete makes the crossing in approximately 4 hours and tickets start at €65.
  • Ferry from Mykonos to Crete: The ferry to Crete from Mykonos is available 2-3 times per day during the summer of 2021. High-speed ferries to Crete (Heraklion) from Mykonos (Tourlos) make the crossing in around 4.5 hours, while standard vessels make it in 8 hours. Tickets for the Mykonos - Crete ferry route can range from €60 to €100.

The old port of Heraklion in Crete

The old harbor of Heraklion in Crete

Book your ferry tickets to Crete

On Ferryhopper you can find tickets for the fastest ferry to Crete, as well as all standard ferry routes. Compare ferry schedules, prices and ferry companies, and book ferry tickets online with just 4 clicks!

If you have any questions about booking or planning your trip, our Customer Support Team will be happy to help via phone, email or the Ferryhopper App!