Piraeus Port → Santorini (Thira) PortFerry Schedule 2026 — Current Departure Times and Prices

About the Piraeus - Santorini Ferry

Piraeus is Athens' bustling port and Greece's largest maritime hub. Ferries departing from here provide transportation to the enchanting islands of the Aegean Sea, especially to Santorini (Thira), famous for its postcard-perfect views. Santorini, with its volcanic formation, whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and world-renowned sunsets, welcomes millions of visitors every year. The Piraeus - Santorini ferry route is one of the busiest and most popular routes for those traveling to the Cycladic Islands.

Both high-speed catamarans and more traditional, slower ferries operate on this route. Travel time can vary significantly depending on the ferry type and operator chosen. The average distance is approximately 234 kilometers (145 miles).

Operators and Vessels

Three main operators serve the Piraeus - Santorini ferry route. Each operator has different vessel types, sailing frequencies, and pricing policies. It is important to consider these differences when planning your trip.

Blue Star Ferries is known for its comfortable and spacious conventional ferries. It operates daily services year-round, ensuring continuous inter-island transportation. Although these ferries are slower, they are generally more affordable and offer passengers the opportunity to spend time on deck.

Seajets stands out with its high-speed catamarans and jet ferries. It is ideal for those who want to reach Santorini faster by significantly reducing travel time. However, this speed often results in higher ticket prices and a more bumpy journey in windy weather. Its services are generally concentrated during the high season from April to November.

Fast Ferries offers an economical conventional service, providing a budget-friendly alternative. It is suitable for those who prefer longer journeys and wish to spend more time inside the ferry. It operates services year-round.

Sailing Duration and Frequency

The duration and frequency of ferry services from Piraeus to Santorini vary depending on your preferred ferry type and the season:

• High-Speed Ferries (Seajets): The fastest journeys take approximately 5 hours (300 minutes). These services are generally scheduled several times a day during the high season, from April to November.
• Conventional Ferries (Blue Star Ferries, Fast Ferries): With these slower ferries, the journey duration can range from 6 hours 10 minutes (Blue Star Ferries) to 11 hours (Fast Ferries). Blue Star Ferries offers daily services year-round, while Fast Ferries also provides an economical option year-round.

During the high season (June-September), the number of services increases, and various operators may offer multiple options throughout the day. In the low season, service frequency decreases, but operators like Blue Star Ferries continue to provide daily connections year-round.

Tickets and Prices

Piraeus - Santorini ferry ticket prices vary greatly depending on the operator, ferry type, travel class, and booking time you choose. Prices generally start from 46.5€ and can go up to levels starting from 90€ for high-speed ferries.

• Early Booking: It is recommended to book your tickets as early as possible, especially during high season and on weekends, to guarantee availability and potentially secure better prices.
• Season: Prices tend to rise during the summer months (June-August) due to increased demand. More affordable prices can be found in spring and autumn.
• Cabin / Seat Type: Air-type seats are more expensive than deck tickets. More luxurious cabins or VIP lounges are the highest-priced options.
• Vehicle Transport: If you are traveling with your vehicle, the vehicle ticket fee is calculated separately from the passenger ticket and varies by ferry type. As vehicle capacities are limited, early booking is crucial if you plan to travel with a vehicle.

Travel Comfort and Practical Information

Here is some practical information to make your Piraeus - Santorini ferry journey more enjoyable:

• Ferry Types: Conventional ferries are generally larger, more stable, and offer the opportunity to walk on open decks and enjoy the sea air. They feature restaurants, cafes, and shops onboard. They can be more comfortable for longer journeys. High-speed catamarans consist of enclosed lounges, are faster, but tend to be more susceptible to rocking in windy or stormy weather.
• Luggage: Generally, there is no specific luggage limit on ferries, but it is recommended to keep your belongings to a size that you can carry yourself and place near your cabin (or seat). Luggage areas are available at the ferry's entrance for larger suitcases.
• Food and Drink: Ferries usually have cafeterias or restaurants where you can purchase food and drinks. However, bringing your own snacks and beverages might be more suitable for both your budget and preferences.
• Piraeus Port: Piraeus port is quite large and has different gates (E1, E2, etc.). Make sure to check which gate your ferry will depart from in advance and arrive at the port early.

Arrival and Transportation in Santorini

The arrival port in Santorini is usually Athinios Port in Thira. This port is approximately 8-10 km from Fira, the island's main town. Buses, taxis, and transfer services are available from the port to Fira and other parts of the island. Especially during high season, buses can be very crowded, so arranging a transfer or booking a taxi in advance might be a more comfortable option.