Crete - Karpathos: Ferry tickets and routes

Crete - Karpathos ferry tickets and schedules

Travel from Crete to Karpathos by ferry and discover one of the most authentic islands of the Dodecanese. Ferry services mainly depart from Sitia and Heraklion, arriving at the main port of Karpathos in Pigadia.

Through booktickets, you can search for available Crete - Karpathos ferry crossings, compare departure times, ticket prices and seat availability, and complete your booking online. Your electronic ticket is delivered to your mobile phone, allowing you to travel without unnecessary procedures.

Crete - Karpathos ferry connections

Ferry crossings from Crete to Karpathos are normally available throughout the year, although services may become more frequent during the summer season. The main route options are:

• Sitia - Karpathos
• Heraklion - Karpathos
• Sitia - Diafani
• Heraklion - Diafani, when included in the vessel’s itinerary

Sitia is normally the fastest departure option because of its location in eastern Crete. The crossing from Heraklion takes longer, but it is particularly convenient for travellers staying in central or western Crete.

Schedules and departure times may change depending on the season, the day of travel and the ferry operator’s timetable.

How long is the ferry from Crete to Karpathos?

The journey time mainly depends on the departure port and the number of intermediate stops.

• The fastest Sitia to Karpathos ferry takes approximately 3 hours and 20-30 minutes.
• The Heraklion to Karpathos crossing usually takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes to 7 hours.
• Journeys to Diafani may take longer, depending on the vessel’s port sequence.
• Services with additional intermediate stops may require more travel time.

Sitia offers the shortest crossing, while Heraklion provides easier access for many visitors staying in other parts of Crete.

Crete - Karpathos ferry ticket prices

Ticket prices depend on the departure port, itinerary, seat category, ferry operator and travel period.

The lowest passenger fares from Sitia to Karpathos may start at approximately €13.50. The exact fare for your chosen date will be displayed during the booking process.

The total price may be higher when booking:

• A numbered aircraft-style seat
• A cabin
• A car or motorcycle
• A ticket to Diafani
• A crossing from a different departure port
• Travel during a period of increased demand

To view the exact cost, enter your travel date, number of passengers and vehicle category in the booktickets booking system.

Ferry companies operating between Crete and Karpathos

The main ferry connection between Crete and Karpathos is primarily operated by Blue Star Ferries. Local services or additional options may appear during certain periods, depending on the approved seasonal timetable.

The conventional ferries serving the route carry both passengers and vehicles. Depending on the vessel, facilities may include:

• Economy deck accommodation
• Numbered seats
• Indoor and outdoor lounges
• Cabins
• Cafés or restaurants
• Designated pet areas
• Garages for cars and motorcycles

Available facilities should be checked during booking, as they may vary between vessels.

Travelling with a car from Crete to Karpathos

Most conventional ferries operating on this route can carry cars, motorcycles and other vehicles. Taking your own vehicle is particularly useful in Karpathos, as it allows you to reach beaches, villages and attractions located away from Pigadia.

When making your reservation, you will usually need to provide:

• The vehicle category
• Make and model
• Registration number
• Vehicle dimensions, when travelling with a larger vehicle
• Details of any trailer or external rack

Garage spaces are limited, especially during July and August. It is therefore advisable to reserve your return crossing at the same time as your outbound ticket.

Discounts on Crete - Karpathos ferry tickets

Ferry operators offer discounts to certain passenger categories, according to their commercial policies and eligibility requirements.

Discounted fares may be available for:

• Infants and children
• Students of Greek universities
• ISIC international student card holders, where accepted
• Large families and families with three children
• Passengers with disabilities and their companions
• Permanent island residents using the Transport Equivalent scheme
• Military personnel
• NAT pensioners

To receive a discounted fare, select the correct passenger category during booking and carry the required supporting document when boarding.

Which port in Crete should I depart from?

The most suitable port depends on where you are staying in Crete and the available schedule for your travel date.

Departing from Sitia

Sitia is generally the best option when:

• You are staying in eastern Crete
• You want the shortest possible sea journey
• You are based in Sitia, Ierapetra or Agios Nikolaos
• You are travelling by car and can easily reach the port

Departing from Heraklion

Heraklion may be more convenient when:

• You are arriving in Crete by air
• You are staying in Heraklion, Rethymno or western Crete
• You need easier access by public transport or taxi
• You do not want to drive to Sitia

Before booking, compare both the ferry journey and the total time required to reach the departure port.

Ports in Karpathos

Karpathos has two main passenger ports.

Pigadia port

Pigadia is the capital and main port of Karpathos. It is the most convenient choice for most visitors, as the surrounding area offers:

• Hotels and holiday accommodation
• Restaurants and cafés
• Car rental offices
• Taxis and local buses
• Easy access to the central and southern parts of the island

Diafani port

Diafani is located in northern Karpathos and mainly serves travellers heading to Olympos and the northern villages.

Choosing Diafani can considerably reduce road travel when your accommodation is near Olympos. However, not every ferry service calls at both ports, so check your arrival point carefully before purchasing your ticket.

Useful information before departure

For a comfortable journey from Crete to Karpathos:

• Arrive at the port at least 60 minutes before departure.
• Passengers travelling with a vehicle should arrive approximately 90 minutes early.
• Carry a valid identity card or passport.
• Save your electronic ticket on your mobile phone.
• Check both the departure and arrival ports carefully.
• Confirm the sailing a few hours before departure.
• Look out for possible changes caused by weather conditions.
• Keep medication and essential personal items in your hand luggage.
• Do not leave valuables inside your vehicle.

Travelling with a pet

Pets can travel according to the ferry company’s regulations. Your pet must be included in the reservation, and you should carry an updated health booklet or pet passport.

Depending on the vessel, kennels, designated outdoor areas or pet-friendly cabins may be available. Pets must not remain inside vehicles during the crossing.

Booking Crete - Karpathos ferry tickets

Through booktickets, you can compare available crossings from Sitia and Heraklion to Pigadia or Diafani and select the option that best suits your travel plans.

To complete your reservation:

1. Select Crete or your specific departure port.
2. Choose Karpathos, Pigadia or Diafani as your destination.
3. Enter your outbound and return travel dates.
4. Add all passengers and your vehicle.
5. Compare departure times, journey duration and availability.
6. Complete the payment and receive your ticket on your mobile phone.

Book your Crete - Karpathos ferry tickets early, especially when travelling during summer, taking a car or reserving a cabin.