Ferries Rethymno

Most ferry companies with routes to and from Rethymno offer regular discounts of up to 50% for specific passenger categories. The discounts differ from one company to another, but typically you can expect reduced ferry tickets for:

• Children aged 5-10/12 years old (depending on the company)
• Students (Greek universities and ISIC cardholders)
• Travelers with disabilities (including their companion and vehicle)

Additional discounts may also be available for members of loyalty clubs and permanent island residents with a Unique Islander Number (MAN).

Note: Infants and toddlers up to 4 years old usually travel free of charge on Rethymno ferries.

When booking your ticket on Ferryhopper, simply select the route that suits you, choose the discount you are eligible for, and it will be applied to your final ticket price.

In the summer, it is highly recommended to book ferry tickets to Rethymno at least 1-2 months ahead of your departure date, especially if you plan to travel with your vehicle. Due to high seasonal demand, cabins often sell out on ferries to the Cretan port, so book as early as possible for the greatest range of options.

For trips during spring or autumn, you can usually afford to book your ferry tickets more just a few days before your departure date. Keep in mind, though, that the ferries can get busy around major celebrations and festivals, so early booking is recommended.

During the off-season, from November to March, you can book your tickets even closer to your departure date. However, as there are fewer routes during these months, make sure you check availability in advance and book your ferry tickets online.

Rethymno, on the northern shores of Crete, is a city known for its stunning Venetian architecture and impressive Fortezza Castle that welcomes visitors arriving by sea. Once you disembark, take a leisurely stroll through the old town, with its beautiful monuments and charming, winding alleys.

Should you work up an appetite, don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies like staka (creamy spread from sheep or goat milk), antikristo (traditionally roasted lamb), or gardoumia (lamb/goat offal), and pair your wine or raki with cheeses such as anthotiro or xynomizithra. 

In the afternoon, relax with a swim at Rethymno’s main beach, or head to Spilies or Episkopi. As evening falls, enjoy a drink at one of the cozy bars tucked away in the narrow streets, or visit a meze restaurant to savor a delicious meal accompanied by traditional Cretan music.

 Check out these 4 useful tips to help you organize your trip by ferry to Rethymno:

• It is recommended that you arrive at the port at least 1 hour before the ship's departure. Rethymno is a very popular destination, especially during the summer high season, so it is important to arrive early for a smooth boarding experience.
• If you are traveling with your family, you can book a cabin for greater comfort. The ferry trip to Rethymno can take a few hours, so extra space and privacy can make for a more relaxed journey.
• There is a bus service in Rethymno, however you will can access more areas by car. We therefore recommend that you bring your own vehicle or rent one for the duration of your stay.
• Rethymno is a great base for exploring the Cyclades and you can easily plan a day trip to islands such as Milos and Santorini. The indicative travel time is as follows:
  • Rethymno - Milos: 2 hours and 45 minutes.
  • Rethymno - Santorini: 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The ferries traveling to Rethymno are fully equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable journey across the Aegean. On board, you will find comfortable seating in the air-conditioned lounges, bars where you can enjoy snacks and drinks, as well as special areas for pets and amenities for travelers with disabilities. Most ferries also have car decks for the transportation of vehicles, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected during the journey.

On the high-speed catamarans traveling to Rethymno, you usually have the option of standard airplane-style seating, as well as booking a seat in the business or VIP lounges.

The port of Rethymno is within walking distance of the city center. In the area around the port you will find many travel amenities, including restaurants, car rental agencies, supermarkets, bands, ATMs pharmacies, parking, and a tourist information office. 

From Rethymno, you catch a ferry to the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands, as well as other destinations in Crete.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Rethymno, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.