Andros - Rafina: Ferry tickets and routes

Andros - Rafina Ferry Tickets and Schedules

The Andros - Rafina ferry route is one of the fastest and most practical ways to return from the Cyclades to Attica. Ferries depart from the port of Andros, Gavrio, and arrive at the port of Rafina, which is located close to Athens and Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”.

The ferry connection is mainly operated by Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries and Seajets, with conventional ferries and high-speed vessels depending on the season and availability. Passenger ticket prices start from approximately €24.50, while the car ticket price is around €49, depending on the ferry company, vessel, seat category and travel date.

Through booktickets.gr, travellers can search for Andros - Rafina ferry tickets, compare departure times, trip duration, ferry companies, available seats and prices, and choose the ferry route that best suits their travel plans.

Departure port in Andros

The departure port for the Andros - Rafina ferry route is Gavrio, the main passenger port of Andros. It is located on the northwestern side of the island and is the main ferry connection point between Andros, Rafina, Tinos and Mykonos.

Gavrio is organized for passenger and vehicle boarding and offers easy access to cafés, ticket agencies, waiting areas, taxis and buses. Since Andros is a large island with several distances between its main areas, travellers should calculate enough time to reach the port from Chora, Batsi, Korthi or other locations.

Access to the departure port

Access to Gavrio is possible by car, taxi or bus. The local bus service of Andros operates routes from Gavrio to Chora, Batsi and Korthi, as well as the reverse routes, usually in connection with ferry departures.

1. From Chora of Andros to Gavrio, the drive usually takes about 45 - 55 minutes, depending on traffic and season.
2. From Batsi to Gavrio, the distance is shorter and the trip takes approximately 10 - 15 minutes by car.
3. From Korthi to Gavrio, travellers should allow more time, as the journey starts from the southeastern side of the island.
4. If you travel without a vehicle, it is recommended to confirm bus schedules or taxi availability in advance, especially during peak hours.

Arrival port in Rafina

The arrival port is Rafina, one of the most important ports in Attica for ferry travel to and from the Cyclades. It is located in eastern Attica and serves passengers travelling daily to Andros, Tinos, Mykonos and other islands, depending on the season.

Rafina is particularly convenient for travellers who need quick access to northern, eastern or central Athens, as well as to the airport. For many passengers returning from Andros, Rafina is a more practical option compared to other ports in Attica, especially when there is a flight connection or onward travel to the eastern suburbs.

Access from the arrival port

From Rafina port, travellers can continue to Athens, the airport or other areas of Attica by bus, taxi or private vehicle. Rafina is connected to central Athens and the airport by regional buses and public transport, while the distance from the airport is relatively short.

1. To the airport: there are regional bus connections from and to Rafina, while the journey by taxi or car is short compared to other ports in Attica.
2. To Athens: access is possible by regional bus to central points of Athens or by combining bus and metro.
3. By car: the port offers direct access to Marathonos Avenue, Mesogeion Avenue and Attiki Odos, depending on the final destination.
4. By taxi: this is a practical option for families, passengers with luggage or travellers with limited connection time.

Ferry trip duration

The duration of the Andros - Rafina ferry trip depends on the vessel, ferry company, weather conditions and daily schedule. The journey usually takes from about 50 minutes to 2 hours. High-speed ferries can complete the route in approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour, while conventional ferries usually take around 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours.

The difference in duration can also affect the ticket price. High-speed ferries may have higher fares in some seat categories, while conventional ferries are often a more stable choice for travellers with cars, families and more luggage.

The fastest ferry route

The fastest Andros - Rafina ferry route can take about 50 minutes, mainly when operated by a high-speed vessel. This makes it an ideal choice for travellers who want to reach Attica quickly, catch a flight, attend a business appointment or continue their journey to Athens.

Before booking, it is worth checking:

1. The actual duration of the specific ferry.
2. Whether the ferry carries vehicles.
3. The arrival time in Rafina.
4. Whether web check-in is available.
5. The available seat categories.

Departure times and ferry frequency

Andros - Rafina ferries operate throughout the year, with more options during the summer months. During periods of high demand, such as June, July, August and early September, departures are more frequent and there may be several sailings available on the same day.

Departure times change depending on the season, ferry company schedule and availability. For this reason, searching on booktickets.gr helps travellers see in real time which ferry departures are available for their preferred travel date.

Weekly ferry schedules

The number of weekly ferry routes increases significantly during the summer season. Based on available booking data and ferry schedules, the Andros - Rafina route is served daily, while during peak periods there may be multiple departures per day.

For better prices and availability, especially if you travel with a car, early booking is recommended.

Intermediate stops

The trip from Gavrio, Andros to Rafina is usually direct for this specific part of the journey. Many ferries may have started from Tinos or Mykonos before reaching Andros, but once they depart from Gavrio towards Rafina, there is usually no other stop before arrival in Attica.

Travellers should always check the schedule of the specific ferry, as there may be changes in the order of ports during special periods or schedule modifications.

Passenger ferry ticket prices

Prices for Andros - Rafina ferry tickets depend on the ferry company, vessel type, seat category, season and availability. In most cases, the standard passenger ticket starts from approximately €24.50. In upgraded seat categories, such as numbered seats, business class or premium seats, the price may be higher.

The main passenger ticket categories may include:

1. Economy class or standard deck seat.
2. Numbered aircraft-type seat.
3. Business or distinguished class.
4. Premium or upgraded seat on selected high-speed ferries.
5. Special passenger categories with possible discounts, such as children, students, large families or people with disabilities, provided that the discount is supported by the ferry company and the necessary documents are available.

The final ticket price appears during the search and booking process, as it may vary depending on date and ferry.

The cheapest ferry tickets

The cheapest Andros - Rafina ferry tickets usually refer to economy class on conventional ferries or basic seat categories. To find a lower fare:

1. Book as early as possible, especially if you travel on a Friday, Sunday or during peak season.
2. Compare different departure times on the same day.
3. Check whether there is a price difference between conventional ferries and high-speed ferries.
4. Choose a standard seat if you do not need an upgraded category.
5. Search using the correct passenger category if you are entitled to a discount.

Vehicle ferry ticket prices

Most ferries serving the Andros - Rafina route have garages for vehicles, but availability depends on the vessel and travel date. Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries and Seajets are among the main operators of the route and carry passengers with cars, motorcycles and other vehicle categories, depending on the ferry.

For vehicles, early booking is very important because garage spaces are limited. This is even more important on weekends, public holidays, in August and on busy return days from the island.

Travelling with a car

If you travel by car from Andros to Rafina, you should arrive at the port well before departure. Vehicle boarding requires more time than boarding as a foot passenger, especially when there is heavy traffic at Gavrio port.

Before booking, check:

1. Whether the specific ferry carries vehicles.
2. Whether there is available garage space for your vehicle size.
3. Whether your vehicle is a private car, motorcycle, van, camper or another special vehicle.
4. Whether separate declaration is required for a roof box, trailer or extra length.

Car ferry ticket price

The indicative price for a private car on the Andros - Rafina route is approximately from €49 - €50. The final price depends on the ferry company, the vehicle length and the category selected during booking. Price lists for Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries and Seajets usually show car fares for Andros around €50.

Motorcycle ferry ticket price

The ferry ticket price for a motorcycle is lower than for a car. Indicatively, prices for a two-wheel motorcycle start from around €22, while for three-wheel or four-wheel motorcycles the price may be around €30, depending on the ferry company and vehicle category.

Camper ferry ticket price

For campers or motorhomes, the price is usually calculated based on vehicle length or the special category applied by each ferry company. In relevant price lists for routes from Rafina to the Cyclades, campers may be charged per metre, with indicative prices such as around €22 per metre for Andros in specific categories.

Because campers have different dimensions, travellers must declare the correct length and height during booking.

Van ferry ticket price

For vans, minibuses or commercial vehicles, the fare is not always the same as a standard private car and may be calculated according to length, height or vehicle category. Indicative price lists may include categories such as minibus per metre or small truck under 5 metres, with different pricing from a standard car.

For a correct booking, travellers must select the actual vehicle category and not simply “car”, otherwise there may be an issue during boarding.

Passenger cabins and prices

On the Andros - Rafina ferry route, cabins are not usually a basic option because the journey is short and the departures are mainly daytime routes. For this reason, most passengers choose economy class, numbered seats or upgraded seats where available.

Cabins are more common on long-distance or overnight ferry routes. For the Andros - Rafina connection, the most practical option is usually a comfortable seat, especially if you travel with children or want a quieter area during the trip. Available information indicates that there are usually no overnight sailings on the Andros - Rafina route, which reduces the need for cabins.

Indicative passenger and vehicle prices

The following prices are indicative and are based on common ticket categories for the Andros - Rafina ferry connection. The final price may change depending on ferry company, vessel, seat category, date and availability.

Price for one passenger and one car

For one passenger and one private car, the total cost may start from approximately:

1. Passenger: from €24.50.
2. Car: from around €49 - €50.
3. Total: from approximately €74.50 - €75.

Prices for two passengers and one car

For two passengers and one private car, the total cost may start from approximately:

1. Two passengers: from around €49 - €50.
2. Car: from around €49 - €50.
3. Total: from approximately €99 - €100.

Prices for a family of four passengers and one car

For a family of four passengers and one private car, the cost may be approximately:

1. Four passengers: from around €98 - €100, if all passengers travel with a standard ticket without discount.
2. Car: from around €49 - €50.
3. Total: from approximately €148 - €150.

If there are children or other discount categories, the final cost may be lower, provided that the discount is supported by the ferry company.

Discounts and offers

Discounts may be available on Andros - Rafina ferry tickets depending on the ferry company, season, passenger category and the terms of each offer. Discounts are not always the same across all companies and may not apply to all seat categories or vehicles.

Common discount categories may include:

1. Infants and young children.
2. University students.
3. Large families and families with three children.
4. People with disabilities and their companions, where applicable.
5. Permanent island residents using the Transport Equivalent scheme where supported.
6. Promotional offers by ferry companies on specific dates.
7. Return ticket discounts, when offered by the ferry company.

Before completing the booking, it is important to select the correct passenger category and have the necessary documents available during boarding.

Ferry companies

The Andros - Rafina ferry route is mainly served by Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries and Seajets. These companies offer different vessel types, different travel durations, different seat categories and different vehicle transport options.

Ferry company comparison

Fast Ferries

1. Duration: usually about 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the ferry and schedule.
2. Cabins: cabins are not a main option for this short trip, but seating areas and common passenger areas are available.
3. Vehicles: carries private cars, motorcycles and other vehicle categories, depending on garage availability.
4. Offers: seasonal offers or reward programmes may be available depending on the period.

Golden Star Ferries

1. Duration: depending on the vessel, the trip may range from about 1 hour to 2 hours.
2. Cabins: for the short Andros - Rafina trip, the focus is mainly on passenger seats, lounges and common areas.
3. Vehicles: operates ferries that carry cars and motorcycles. Indicatively, Andros Queen is reported to carry up to 1,250 passengers and 360 vehicles.
4. Offers: offers may be available depending on season and availability.

Seajets

1. Duration: on high-speed ferries, the trip may take around 50 minutes to 1 hour.
2. Cabins: the company mainly offers numbered and upgraded seats on high-speed vessels for this short route.
3. Vehicles: carries vehicles on ferries that have a garage, depending on vessel and date.
4. Offers: prices may vary depending on season, availability and seat category.

Which ferries operate the route?

The ferries that may appear on the Andros - Rafina route vary by season. Indicatively, routes to and from Andros may include ferries operated by Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries and Seajets, including conventional vessels with garages and high-speed ferries that significantly reduce travel time.

1. Theologos P by Fast Ferries.
2. Fast Ferries Andros by Fast Ferries.
3. Ekaterini P by Fast Ferries.
4. Superferry by Golden Star Ferries.
5. Andros Queen by Golden Star Ferries.
6. Andros King by Golden Star Ferries.
7. Seajets high-speed vessels, such as TERA JET 2 and SUPERRUNNER JET, depending on the season and schedule.

Because ferries may change from season to season, the safest option is to check the date you want to travel and see which ferry operates the route on that specific day.

Onboard facilities and services

Ferries travelling from Andros to Rafina offer basic and upgraded services for a comfortable short journey. Depending on the vessel, there may be different passenger areas, indoor lounges, outdoor decks and food service facilities.

Common onboard facilities may include:

1. Economy seats.
2. Numbered seats.
3. Business or upgraded seats on selected ferries.
4. Air-conditioned indoor lounges.
5. Outdoor decks.
6. Snack bar or café-bar.
7. Passenger toilets.
8. Pet areas or special pet spaces, depending on the ferry.
9. Garage for private cars, motorcycles and other vehicles.
10. E-ticket or web check-in availability in many cases.

For this particular trip, choosing a numbered seat may be worthwhile if you travel during peak season or want more comfort.

Luggage on board

Luggage rules on ferry trips are usually more flexible than on flights, but each ferry company may apply its own policy. In many cases, passengers can carry luggage they can handle themselves, while some companies apply indicative weight limits or recommendations. For routes to Andros, ferry companies are often flexible, while Fast Ferries may apply a limit of approximately 50 kg.

Useful luggage recommendations:

1. Keep essential personal items with you, such as ID, ticket, mobile phone, medication and money.
2. Do not leave valuable items in shared luggage areas.
3. If you travel with family, split essential items into smaller bags for easier access.
4. If you carry bulky luggage, arrive at the port earlier.
5. If you travel with a vehicle, do not assume that you will have access to the garage during the trip.

Pets on board

Pets are allowed on board, but they must be declared during booking. A special pet ticket is usually required, even if it has zero cost, along with information such as health booklet or pet passport, microchip number, size and pet category.

For travelling with a pet:

1. Declare the pet during the booking process.
2. Carry the pet health booklet or pet passport.
3. Make sure the microchip number is correctly registered.
4. Bring a leash, muzzle where required, or a suitable pet carrier.
5. Check whether the ferry has special pet areas.
6. Do not leave the pet unattended.
7. Carry water and basic care items for the journey.

Alternative routes

The main and most practical option for returning from Andros to Attica is the Andros - Rafina ferry route. However, depending on your travel plan, there are also other options that may be useful.

1. Andros – Tinos: suitable for travellers who want to continue their trip to another Cycladic island.
2. Andros – Mykonos: a practical choice for island-hopping in the Cyclades.
3. Andros - Rafina with a different ferry company: if one company’s departure time is not convenient, you can check alternative ferries on the same day.
4. Return through another island: in special travel plans, a combination with Tinos or Mykonos may be possible, although it is usually not the fastest solution for reaching Attica.
5. Arrival in Rafina and onward travel to the airport: an ideal option for travellers combining ferry and flight.

Andros is not usually served by Piraeus, so Rafina remains the main option for returning to Attica.

Best time to travel

The best time to travel from Andros to Rafina depends on the purpose of the trip. If you want lower prices and easier boarding, weekdays and off-peak hours are usually better choices.

It is usually more convenient to travel:

1. On weekdays, when demand is lower compared to Sundays and public holidays.
2. In the morning or at midday, if you want to continue to Athens or the airport on the same day.
3. Outside August, if you prefer lower demand and greater availability.
4. With an early booking, especially if you travel with a car.
5. After comparing ferry companies, because duration and price may differ significantly.

What travellers can see in Rafina

Arriving in Rafina, travellers find themselves in a practical seaside area of eastern Attica, with easy access to Athens, the airport and nearby regions. Rafina is not only an arrival port, but also an area with a coastal character, restaurants, cafés and places for a short stop before continuing the journey.

Travellers can see or visit:

1. The coastal front of Rafina.
2. Restaurants and fish taverns near the port.
3. The area of Artemida.
4. Nea Makri and Marathon.
5. The centre of Athens, by road or public transport.
6. Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”, for domestic or international flight connections.

How to change your ferry ticket

Ticket changes depend on the ferry company, ticket type, time remaining before departure and availability on the new ferry route. In general, changes must be made before departure and not after the ferry has sailed. Cancellation and change policies differ by company, with indicative rules that may include different refund percentages or conversion to an open-date ticket depending on how early the request is made.

To change a ferry ticket:

1. Check the terms of the ferry company operating the trip.
2. Contact the point of issue or the platform where the booking was made.
3. Request a date change or conversion to open date, if supported.
4. Check whether there is a fare difference for the new travel date.
5. Do not wait until the last moment, because after departure changes are usually not allowed.

If you booked through booktickets.gr, you can follow the instructions included in your booking confirmation and request support for the change, according to the terms of the ferry company.

Useful travel tips

1. Book early if you travel with a car, because garage spaces sell out faster than simple passenger seats.
2. Check the departure time the day before travel, especially if strong winds are expected.
3. Arrive at Gavrio earlier, particularly if you have a vehicle.
4. Complete web check-in where supported, so you can have your ticket on your mobile phone.
5. Carry your ID card or passport, as it may be requested during boarding.
6. If you travel with a pet, declare it during booking and carry the necessary documents.
7. If you have a flight from the airport, allow enough time between arrival in Rafina and your flight departure.
8. If you travel on a Sunday or after a public holiday, expect increased traffic both at the port and on the roads of Attica.
9. Compare price, duration and arrival time before choosing a ferry.
10. Keep your booking confirmation and e-ticket easily accessible on your mobile phone.

Frequently asked questions

How can I book the cheapest ferry ticket?

To find the cheapest Andros - Rafina ferry ticket, compare different departure times, ferry companies and seat categories. Standard economy seats usually have the lowest price. Early booking is especially helpful during periods of increased demand.

Is there an overnight ferry?

There are usually no overnight ferries from Andros to Rafina. The journey is short and is mainly operated during the day.

Which ferries operate this connection?

The route is served by ferries of Fast Ferries, Golden Star Ferries and Seajets, depending on the date and season. Available ferries may change from one season to another.

Are there direct ferry routes?

Yes, the section from Gavrio, Andros to Rafina is usually direct, with no other stop before arrival in Attica.

Is there parking at the departure and arrival ports?

There are parking areas near Gavrio port, although availability may be limited during peak periods. In Rafina, there are parking options near the port and private parking areas in the wider area. It is recommended to allow extra time, especially on days with many arrivals and departures.

What should I pay attention to during check-in?

You should have your ID card or passport, booking reference and ticket or boarding pass with you. If you travel with a vehicle, you should arrive earlier at the port, because garage boarding requires more time.

How do I complete web check-in?

Web check-in is completed through the ferry company’s system or through the link included in the booking confirmation. For Golden Star Ferries and Seajets, web check-in is usually available from 48 hours to 2 hours before departure, while Fast Ferries also offers an electronic check-in process and ticket delivery.

Web check-in Seajets

Web Check-in Fast Ferries

Web check-in Golden star ferries

What happens if I miss the ferry?

If you miss the ferry, the ticket usually cannot be used automatically on another ferry route. You should contact the ferry company or the point of issue immediately to check whether a change is possible. After departure, changes and cancellations are usually not allowed.

What types of tickets are available?

Available ticket types may include standard passenger tickets, numbered seats, upgraded seats, vehicle tickets, motorcycle tickets and special passenger categories with possible discounts. Availability depends on the ferry and ferry company.

Can I cancel my ferry ticket?

Cancellation depends on the terms of the ferry company and the time remaining before departure. Usually, the earlier the cancellation is requested, the better the refund terms. After departure, cancellation is usually not possible.

Can I change my ticket to another day?

Yes, a ticket can be changed to another day if the ferry company’s terms allow it and there is availability. If the new date has a higher fare, a fare difference may need to be paid.

Can I travel with a pet?

Yes, pets can be transported on board. The pet must be declared during booking and accompanied by the required documents, such as a health booklet or passport and microchip number.

Are there discounts for students, children and seniors?

Yes, discounts may be available for children, students, large families, people with disabilities and other passenger categories, depending on the ferry company and ticket terms. Discounts do not always apply to all seat categories or all vehicles.

Final conclusion

The Andros - Rafina ferry route is the most direct and practical option for returning from Andros to Attica. With travel time starting from approximately 50 minutes on the fastest ferries and with daily departures, the route serves both island visitors and permanent residents.

The option to travel with a car, the frequent presence of conventional ferries and the availability of high-speed routes make this connection flexible for every type of traveller.

For a better travel experience, compare prices, departure times, trip duration and available seats before booking. Through booktickets.gr, you can easily organize your Andros - Rafina trip and choose the ferry ticket that best matches your schedule and budget.