Ferry from Heraklion to Athens (Piraeus)

When traveling from Heraklion to Athens (Piraeus) by ferry, you can take advantage of lower-cost ferry tickets, thanks to the available discounts. The ferry companies offer discounts of up to 50% to the following indicative passenger categories:

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

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

You can find a variety of services on board conventional ferries from Heraklion to Athens (Pireus), including air-conditioned lounges, restaurant and snack bars, spacious outdoor decks, cabins, car decks, and desgnated areas for pets. Wi-Fi packages are also available on some vessels.

Cabins and accommodation

Most vessels traveling to Piraeus from Heraklion offer different types of cabins. You will usually be able to choose from 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-bed private cabins, as well as a bed in a shared cabin. Prices usually start at around €60, but vary depending on the season and company.

You can also choose between a standard seat or a business/VIP seat, depending on the company.

Tip: We recommend that you book a cabin well in advance to enjoy the crossing in privacy and comfort.

Luggage

Ferry companies like Minoan Lines, Seajets and Blue Star Ferries, are usually quite flexible when it comes to luggage size and weight. You can keep your luggage next to you or store your bags and suitcases in the designated luggage area on the ferry to Piraeus.

Good to know: bear in mind that there is no check-in procedure for luggage items.

Tip: each ferry company has its own baggage allowance policy. We recommend that you don’t carry more than 50 kg of luggage to avoid delays due to restricted space in the luggage area.

Traveling with pets

You can easily travel with your pet on the ferry from Heraklion to Athens (Piraeus), depending on the company and type of vessel you've chosen for your trip. Make sure to carry along the necessary certificates, tickets and any pet supplies you may need for a pleasant ferry trip with your companion.

Here are some travel tips for your trip from Heraklion to Athens (Piraeus): 

• The port of Heraklion can get crowded during summer. We recommend arriving at the port at least 1 hour in advance of your departure.
• Add our Heraklion travel guide to your reading list to find out what to see and do during your stay in Crete!
• From the port of Piraeus, you can travel to more Greek islands. On our Map of Ferries, you can check all ferry connections from Piraeus and plan your trip step-by-step.
• Check out more information about the port of Piraeus and learn how to best get there depending on your preferred mean of transport.
• If you want more ideas about what to do in Athens, add our dedicated guide to your reading list!
• Remember to also book your return tickets from Athens to Crete in advance!
• On our page about ferry schedules to/from Piraeus, in Athens, you can find all available routes, up-to-date timetables, ticket prices and ongoing offers!

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

The port of Heraklion is one of the main ports of Crete and is located next to the city center. Just a few meters away, there are amenities such as ATMs, gas stations, supermarkets, and pharmacies. 

Heraklion has public transport and the bus station is 10 min away from the port. The airport of Heraklion is about 5 km from the center and it is accessible either by bus (lines 1 and 78) or by taxi. 

Where does the ferry arrive in Athens?

Ferries from Heraklion, in Crete, arrive in Piraeus, the main port of Athens and the largest in Greece. The port is located approximately 15 km south of Athens and 45 km from Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos." You can easily reach downtown Athens and the airport by car or taxi, as well as by public transportation, including the metro, train, bus, and suburban railway.