Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Crete

Take advantage of the available discounts and travel by ferry from Athens to Crete with lower-cost ferry tickets. The ferry companies offer discounts up to 50% to the following passenger categories:

• Children from 5 to 10 years old
• Permanent residents of islands (holders of Unique Islander Number)
• Students of Greek Public Universities
• ISIC card holders
• People with disabilities and their accompanying persons
• Senior travelers

Note: infants and children up to 4 years travel for free. However, keep in mind that available discounts may vary depending on the company you’re traveling with.

The Athens to Crete ferry routes are mainly served by conventional vessels, while there are also some high-speed ferries operating on the Piraeus - Heraklion and Piraeus - Rethymno connections.

On board the ferries, you can find modern amenities, including air-conditioned lounges, restaurant and snack bars, spacious decks, cabins, car decks, and desgnated areas for pets.

On Minoan Lines, Seajets, and Hellenic Seawas ferries, there are also Wi-Fi packages available.

Cabins and accommodation

Most conventional ferries running from Athens (Piraeus) to Crete have cabins. Note that there are 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bed cabin options, while you can also book a bed in a shared cabin. Cabin prices normally start at around €60.

Alternatively, you can opt for an airplane-type standard seat to travel more comfortbly. On Seajets and Hellenic Seaways ferries, there are also business and VIP seating options, respectively.

Luggage

You can normally carry up to 50 kg of luggage on the Athens to Crete ferry.

However, note that Greek ferry companies are usually quite flexible regarding luggage size and weight, and that there is normally no check-in procedure for luggage items.

Traveling with pets

You can travel with your pet on all ferries to Crete from Athens. Remember to include your pet in the reservation as you complete your booking.

Make sure to carry along the necessary certificates, tickets and any pet supplies you may need for your trip.

Here are some useful tips for your ferry trip from Athens (Piraeus) to Crete:

• The port of Piraeus can get quite busy in the summer, so we recommend that you arrive at least 1 hr prior to departure.
• Summer ferry rides can be bumpy. There is nothing to worry about, but if you feel seasick you can ask the ferry crew for some aspirin or carry with you anti-nausea pills. 
• The port of Heraklion, which is the largest in Crete, as well as more ports on the island, are great starting points for island hopping in the Aegean Sea! You can travel by ferry to Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and more islands in Greece. Check our Map of ferries to discover island-hopping options and plan your itinerary on Ferryhopper. 

Where to take the ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Crete

You can catch the ferry to Crete from the port of Piraeus in Athens. The port of Piraeus is located approximately 15 km south of the city center of Athens and 45 km from Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos. 

You can get to the port of Piraeus by car, taxi, as well as public transport, including bus, metro and suburban railway.

Ferries from Athens to Crete normally depart from Piraeus Gates E2 and E3. We suggest that you always check your ticket for more information on departure gates, as they can change.