Crete - Rhodes: Ferry tickets and routes

Crete - Rhodes ferry tickets and ferry schedules

Travel from Crete to Rhodes by ferry and easily arrange your journey from Greece’s largest island to the Dodecanese. Ferry services mainly depart from Heraklion or Sitia, depending on the season and the available sailing schedule.

Through booktickets.gr, you can search for available Crete - Rhodes ferry crossings, compare departure times, journey duration, seating categories and vehicle transportation options. Once you have selected the most convenient sailing, you can complete your booking online and receive your tickets electronically.

Passenger fares without a vehicle usually start at approximately €24-€26.50, while car transportation may start at around €96. The final price depends on the departure port, vessel, seating category, cabin, vehicle, available discounts and travel period.

Ferry schedules from Crete to Rhodes

Ferries from Crete to Rhodes normally depart from Heraklion and Sitia. Not all services leave from the same port, so passengers should carefully check their exact boarding point before completing their booking.

The Heraklion - Rhodes connection operates throughout the year, although the number of weekly departures varies by season. There are normally around two weekly sailings, while additional departures may be available during certain periods.

The Sitia - Rhodes route can be a faster and more convenient choice for passengers staying in eastern Crete. Sailings are not necessarily available every day, so it is important to search using your preferred travel date.

Before booking, check:

• The exact departure port in Crete
• The scheduled departure and arrival times
• The total journey duration
• Any intermediate port calls
• The availability of reserved seats or cabins
• The conditions for transporting a car or motorcycle

How long is the ferry journey from Crete to Rhodes?

The duration of the ferry journey from Crete to Rhodes depends mainly on the departure port and the number of intermediate stops.

From Sitia, the crossing may take approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes. From Heraklion, the journey usually lasts around 10 to 14 hours, depending on the selected sailing.

Many sailings operate overnight or involve several hours at sea. For greater comfort, passengers can select a reserved aircraft-style seat or cabin, particularly when travelling with children, elderly passengers or anyone wishing to rest during the journey.

Crete - Rhodes ferry ticket prices

Ticket prices depend on the travel date, availability and selected accommodation category. Deck or economy-class tickets are normally the most affordable option.

The total fare may increase when selecting:

• A reserved aircraft-style seat
• A bed in a shared cabin
• A private cabin
• An outside cabin with a window
• A pet-friendly cabin
• Transportation of a car, motorcycle or other vehicle

For journeys during the summer, public holidays or busy travel periods, booking in advance is strongly recommended. Economy seats, cabins and vehicle spaces may sell out as the departure date approaches.

Ferry companies operating between Crete and Rhodes

Blue Star Ferries is the main operator serving the Heraklion - Rhodes ferry connection. The operator and available vessels may vary according to the departure port, date and season.

The conventional passenger and vehicle ferries used on the route normally offer economy seating, reserved seats, cabins, food and beverage facilities and garages for vehicles. Available services vary by vessel and are displayed during the search and booking process.

Ferry ticket discounts

Depending on the ferry company and the fare policy applying on the selected travel date, discounted tickets may be available for certain passenger categories.

Reduced fares may be offered to:

• Infants and children
• Students at Greek universities
• ISIC international student cardholders, where accepted
• Large and three-child families
• Passengers with disabilities and accompanying persons
• Members of the Greek Armed Forces
• Retired NAT seafarers
• Permanent island residents through the Transport Equivalent scheme

To receive a discount, passengers must select the correct category during booking and present the relevant supporting document when boarding.

Travelling from Crete to Rhodes with a car

Taking a car to Rhodes is particularly useful for travellers who want to explore different areas of the island, including Lindos, Faliraki, Kamiros, the Valley of the Butterflies and the beaches of southern Rhodes.

During the booking process, you may need to provide:

• The vehicle category
• The make and model
• The registration number
• The vehicle’s length or height, where required
• Details of any roof box or trailer

Garage capacity is limited. During high-demand periods, vehicle transportation should be booked as early as possible.

Travelling with a pet

Pets can travel on ferries operating between Crete and Rhodes in accordance with the ferry company’s regulations. The pet must be declared when booking and the appropriate accommodation option should be selected.

Depending on the vessel, facilities may include designated pet areas, outdoor kennels or pet-friendly cabins. Owners should carry the pet’s updated health booklet or passport, as well as a lead and muzzle where required.

Heraklion ferry port

Heraklion Port is located close to the city centre and is easily accessible by car, taxi and public transport. It is one of Crete’s principal passenger ports and serves routes to Piraeus, the Cyclades and the Dodecanese.

Foot passengers should arrive at least one hour before departure. Passengers travelling with a vehicle are advised to arrive earlier and follow the ferry company’s check-in instructions.

Sitia ferry port

Sitia Port mainly serves eastern Crete and is a convenient departure point for travellers staying in Sitia, Makry Gialos, Ierapetra and the surrounding areas.

Before travelling to the port, confirm the departure time and allow sufficient time for the journey, particularly when travelling from another town in Crete.

Arriving at Rhodes Port

Ferries arrive at the main port in Rhodes Town. The port is close to the Medieval City and provides access to taxis, local buses, car rental companies and accommodation.

From the port, passengers can travel towards:

• The Medieval City
• Mandraki
• Ixia and Ialysos
• Faliraki
• Kallithea
• Lindos
• The beaches of eastern and southern Rhodes

Useful travel tips

For a more comfortable and well-organised journey:

1. Check whether your ferry departs from Heraklion or Sitia.
2. Arrive at the port at least one hour before departure.
3. Select a cabin or reserved seat for long or overnight journeys.
4. Book your vehicle space early.
5. Carry a valid identity card or passport.
6. Keep essential personal belongings in a small hand luggage bag.
7. Confirm the departure time before travelling to the port.
8. Check the ticket amendment and cancellation conditions.

How to book Crete - Rhodes ferry tickets

Ferry tickets through booktickets.gr can be booked online in a few simple steps:

1. Select Crete as your departure point and Rhodes as your destination.
2. Enter your preferred departure date.
3. Add the passengers and your vehicle, where applicable.
4. Compare the available ferry crossings.
5. Select your seat, cabin and eligible discounts.
6. Enter the passenger details.
7. Complete the payment and receive your booking confirmation.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a direct ferry from Crete to Rhodes?

Yes. Direct ferry services operate from ports in Crete to Rhodes. Available connections depend on the travel date and normally depart from Heraklion or Sitia.

How much is a Crete - Rhodes ferry ticket?

The lowest passenger fares without a vehicle may start at approximately €24-€26.50. Prices vary depending on the departure port, accommodation category, season and availability.

How long does the ferry journey take?

The journey may last from approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes to 14 hours, depending on the departure port, vessel and intermediate stops.

Can I take my car to Rhodes?

Yes. Passenger and vehicle ferries serving the route have garages for cars and motorcycles. The vehicle must be included during the booking process.

Are there daily ferry services?

Ferry crossings are not normally available every day. The frequency varies by season, so passengers should search using their specific travel date.

Do I need to book a cabin?

A cabin is not compulsory, but it is a practical choice for overnight or long journeys, particularly for families and passengers who want to rest.

When should I book my tickets?

For journeys in July, August, Easter or public holiday periods, booking several weeks in advance is recommended, particularly when travelling with a vehicle or requiring a cabin.