Ferry from Kefalonia to Zakynthos

Tickets, Prices & Schedules

There are 2 ferry routes between the Greek islands of Kefalonia and Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea, operating for several months of the year. The first route connects the port of Sami in Kefalonia with Zante's main port and is operated by Lefkada Palace. The second route connects the port of Pessada in Kefalonia with the port of Agios Nikolaos in Zakynthos and is operated by Ionian Sea Ferries.

The trip duration from Kefalonia to Zakynthos varies from 1.5 to 3 hours and ticket prices start from €11. Compare prices and companies, and book cheap ferry tickets from Kefalonia to Zakynthos on Ferryhopper without hidden fees!

Discounts

Ferry companies operating routes between Kefalonia and Zakynthos offer a 50% discount to the following passengers:

  • Children aged 5 and over
  • Greek university students
  • Large families (Greek citizens)
  • People with disabilities

Children aged 4 and under usually travel for free and discounts are often available for permanent island residents.

Note that discounts may vary slightly between companies and routes.

On-board services and amenities

The ferries that travel between Kefalonia and Zakynthos are smaller vessels with comfortable indoor seating areas, restrooms and outdoor decks where you can enjoy beautiful sea views. Some ferries have car decks, while others are for foot passengers only.

Cabins and accommodation

As the journey from Kefalonia to Zante (Zakynthos) is quite short, cabins are not available on board the Ionian Sea Ferries or the Lefkada Palace vessels. However, your ticket includes a seat.

Luggage

Greek ferry companies are usually quite flexible regarding 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 Zante.

Tip: we recommend that you don't carry more than 50 kg of luggage to avoid delays due to limited space in the luggage area.

Traveling with pets

On board Kefalonia - Zakynthos ferries, you can bring along your pet free of charge. Remember to include your pet in your booking when making a reservation on Ferryhopper.

    Pets are usually allowed on the outdoor decks as long as they are on a leash and wear a muzzle. 

Make sure to carry all necessary pet health certificates and any supplies you may need for your trip. 

Useful tips for your ferry trip to Zante from Kefalonia

Here are some travel tips for your ferry trip from Kefalonia to Zante:

  • In the summer months, the ports of Kefalonia can be quite busy. Therefore, it’s best to arrive at the departure port at least 45 min before the trip, especially if you are bringing along your vehicle.
  • The island of Zante (or Zakynthos) stands out for its impressive beaches, natural beauty and entertainment options. Find more ideas and tips about holidays in Zante and discover what to see and do there.
  • For the mainland, you can easily reach Kefalonia and Zante by ferry all year round. Take a look at ferry routes to the Ionian islands from the port of Kyllini: Kyllini - Kefalonia and Kyllini - Zante.
  • Zante is a great starting point for island hopping in the Ionian Islands. Check out our Map of ferries to find all available ferry connections between Zante and Ithaca, Lefkada, Corfu, and Paxi.
  • Make sure to also book your return tickets from Zante to Kefalonia ahead of time for a hassle-free trip!
  • To discover all ferry routes, timetables, ticket prices, port info and ongoing offers check out our guide on ferry schedules to Zante!

Where to take the ferry from Kefalonia to Zante

Ferries to Zante depart from 2 ports in Kefalonia: from Sami on the eastern side of the island, and from Pessada on its southern part. The first one is about 26 km (37 min by car) from Argostoli, while the latter is about 12.5 km (20 min by car) from the capital of Kefalonia island.

Apart from the car, you can also reach the 2 ports by bus from Argostoli and other areas on the island, while there are also taxi services that you can opt for.

Where does the ferry arrive in Zante (Zakynthos)?

Ferries from Kefalonia reach 2 ports in Zante: the main port of the island (southeast) and Agios Nikolaos (north).

Kefalonia - Zakynthos ferry companies

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FAQs

Yes, you can bring along your vehicle on the ferry serving the Pessada - Agios Nikolaos route, but on the Sami - Zante ferry. Car tickets normally cost €35, and motorcycle tickets are at €14.

Tip: as vehicle spaces usually sell out fast, we recommend booking your vehicle tickets a few weeks in advance.

No, the vessels operating on the 2 routes between Kefalonia and Zante are normally conventional ferries.

The distance between the port of Sami and the main port of Zante is around 30 nautical miles (about 56 km), while the port of Pessada is about 14 nautical miles (27 km) away from the port of Agios Nikolaos in Zante.

When booking your Italy to Corsica trip on Ferryhopper, you can easily check in online, get your tickets on your phone, and board the ferry directly with your e-ticket without collecting any paper tickets at the port. This applies to most routes between the two countries.

Find detailed answers to all your questions about ferry ticket changes, cancellations and refunds.

Remember that you can also use Ferryhopper's online booking modification service, available with certain ferry companies.