Kavala - Ikaria ferry tickets and schedules

Kavala - Ikaria ferry tickets and schedules

Ferry tickets for the trip from Kavala to Ikaria start indicatively from €38 for a passenger in economy class, while transporting a car may cost approximately from €120.5, depending on the travel date, availability and ticket category. The journey usually takes around 18 to 21 hours, as the route includes intermediate stops at islands of the North Aegean. The connection is mainly operated by conventional ferries of Blue Star Ferries / Hellenic Seaways, offering passenger tickets, vehicle transport and cabins.

Frequency is limited and seasonal, usually with 1 to 2 weekly sailings during periods of increased demand. Through booktickets.gr, travelers can compare available departures, prices, seats, cabins and vehicle tickets before completing their booking.

Departure port

The journey starts from the central passenger port of Kavala, known as “Apostolos Pavlos”. It is located within the city, close to the center, shops, hotels and main services. This makes it convenient for passengers arriving from Thessaloniki, Drama, Xanthi, Komotini or other areas of Northern Greece.

The port serves passenger routes to Thassos and the North Aegean islands, such as Limnos, Lesvos, Chios, Samos and Ikaria. For such a long journey, travelers should check the departure gate, boarding time and vehicle loading point in advance.

Access to the departure port

1. By car, access is easy through Egnatia Odos and the main entrances of Kavala.
2. By bus, travelers can reach Kavala from major cities of Northern Greece and then continue to the port by taxi or local transport.
3. By taxi, the ride from central areas of the city is short, as the port is in a very accessible location.
4. If you are traveling with a private car, allow extra time for parking, boarding and ticket control.

Arrival port

In Ikaria, arrival depends on the schedule and may be at either Agios Kirykos or Evdilos. Agios Kirykos mainly serves the southern side of the island and is close to the island’s capital. It is a practical choice for travelers staying in Therma, Faros, Xylosyrtis or the southern areas.

Evdilos is located on the northern side and is more convenient for travelers heading to Armenistis, Gialiskari, Messakti, Raches or Nas. Before booking, it is worth checking which arrival port is served by your sailing, as distances on the island can be significant.

Access from the arrival port

1. From Agios Kirykos, you can easily move toward the southern and eastern side of the island.
2. From Evdilos, access is more convenient for the northern and western side.
3. If you are not traveling with your own vehicle, it is recommended to arrange a taxi, rental car or hotel transfer in advance.
4. During the summer months, demand for taxis and rental cars increases, so early booking is useful.

Ferry trip duration

The trip duration is relatively long, as the ferry follows a multi-island route. It usually takes around 18 to 21 hours, depending on intermediate stops, the arrival port and weather conditions.

The long duration is not necessarily a disadvantage, especially for travelers who want to avoid driving all the way to Piraeus. For residents of Northern Greece, departing from Kavala can be a more comfortable option, even if the sea journey takes more hours.

The fastest sailing

The fastest available sailing depends on the weekly schedule. In some cases, arrival in Ikaria takes around 18 hours, while in others it may approach or exceed 20 hours. The difference mainly depends on whether the ferry approaches Agios Kirykos or Evdilos and on the intermediate stops before reaching the island.

Departure times and frequency

Departures are often in the evening, allowing passengers to spend a large part of the journey overnight. This makes a cabin or numbered seat a more practical choice, especially for families, couples or passengers who want to rest.

Frequency is not daily. The route operates with a limited number of departures, which may increase during the summer season. For this reason, it is important to check availability on booktickets.gr before planning accommodation.

Weekly sailings

1. During low-demand periods, there may be around 1 sailing per week.
2. In summer or during specific periods, frequency may reach 2 sailings per week.
3. Departure days and times may differ by month.
4. Cabin and garage spaces sell out faster than simple passenger seats.

Intermediate stops

The connection from Northern Greece to Ikaria usually passes through several islands. The most common intermediate stops are:

1. Limnos.
2. Mytilene, Lesvos.
3. Chios.
4. Samos.
5. Fourni.
6. Agios Kirykos or Evdilos, depending on the schedule.

These stops affect the total duration, but they also make the route important for connecting the North Aegean islands with each other.

Ferry ticket prices for passengers and vehicles

Prices depend on season, seat type, cabin selection, vehicle type and availability. Indicatively, the lowest prices for a simple passenger ticket start from around €38. For a numbered seat, cabin or special accommodation type, the cost increases.

Transporting a car is a useful choice for Ikaria, as the island has long distances, mountain roads and many villages that are not always frequently served by public transport. A car ticket may start from around €120, while motorcycle transport is usually cheaper.

The cheapest tickets

1. The most economical tickets are usually deck or simple economy class tickets.
2. Numbered seats cost more but offer better organization for a long trip.
3. Cabins are more expensive but offer rest and privacy.
4. Families and passengers with a vehicle should book early, as garage spaces are limited.

Traveling with a car

A car is useful in Ikaria, especially if you want to visit beaches such as Messakti, Seychelles, Livadi or more remote villages. However, it increases the total cost of the trip.

Before booking a vehicle ticket, check:

1. Whether there is garage availability on the selected sailing.
2. Whether the vehicle dimensions have been correctly entered.
3. Whether you need to arrive earlier at the port for loading.
4. Whether taking your own car or renting one on the island is more cost-effective.

Passenger cabins - Prices

For a journey that may last almost a full day, a cabin is one of the most comfortable options. Prices start indicatively from €60.50 per passenger for simpler cabin types and increase depending on the category, capacity and whether the cabin is inside or outside.

Available options may include:

1. Inside cabins.
2. Outside cabins.
3. Two-bed, three-bed or four-bed cabins.
4. Pet cabins, where available.
5. Numbered aircraft-type seats for a more economical option.

Indicative passenger and car prices

The following prices are indicative and refer to basic ticket categories without special discounts. Before booking, real-time availability should always be checked.

1. Economy passenger ticket: from €38.
2. Car: from €120.
3. Motorcycle: from €23.
4. Cabin: from €60.50 per passenger, depending on type.

Prices for two passengers and a car

For two passengers and one car, the total cost may start indicatively from €196 without a cabin.

1. Two passengers: €38 + €38 = €76.
2. One car: approximately €120.
3. Total without cabin: approximately €196.
4. With a cabin, the final cost increases depending on the accommodation type.

Prices for a family of 4 passengers and a car

For a family of four with a car, the indicative price without discounts may start from €272.

1. Four passengers: 4 x €38 = €152.
2. One car: approximately €120.
3. Total without cabin: approximately €272.
4. With children’s or other discounts, the cost may be reduced.

Discounts & offers

Discounts are applied depending on the ferry company, season and fare conditions. Special fares may usually be available for:

1. Infants & Children.
2. Students of universities.
3. ISIC holders, where applicable.
4. Large families.
5. People with disabilities and their escorts.
6. Permanent island residents with the Transport Equivalent, where applicable.
7. Family offers in cabins, depending on availability.
8. - 30% Hotel & Ferry Discount

On booktickets.gr, travelers can check whether a discount applies to the selected sailing and see the final price before payment.

Ferry companies

The route is mainly served by conventional ferries of the Blue Star Ferries / Hellenic Seaways network. These vessels are suitable for long-distance trips, offering lounges, decks, numbered seats, cabins, food areas and garage space for vehicles.

Ferry company comparison

Company: Blue Star Ferries / Hellenic Seaways.

1. Duration: approximately 18 to 21 hours.
2. Cabins: available in different types, depending on the vessel.
3. Vehicles: cars, motorcycles and other vehicles can be transported.
4. Offers: applied depending on company policy and availability.

Which ferry should I choose? high-speed vs conventional

For this connection, the choice is mainly a conventional ferry. High-speed vessels are not usually the standard option for such a long distance and for vehicle transport. A conventional ferry is better suited to a long journey, as it offers cabins, larger common areas and garage space.

Duration comparison is especially useful on other routes, where the difference between a high-speed and a conventional ferry can be several hours. In this case, the priority is availability, comfort, cabin options and the ability to transport a car.

Return route Ikaria - Kavala

For the return from Ikaria to Kavala, careful date checking is required. Return sailings are not daily and may depart from a different port than the one you arrived at. For example, a traveler may arrive at Agios Kirykos, but a return from Evdilos may be more convenient, or the opposite.

Before booking accommodation, check:

1. Which port the return ferry departs from.
2. Which day the connection is available.
3. Whether there is vehicle space.
4. Whether an overnight stay near the port is needed.

Ferry facilities and services

The conventional ferries on this route offer facilities that make the long journey more comfortable.

1. Passenger lounges.
2. Numbered seats.
3. Cabins.
4. Outdoor decks.
5. Cafeterias or food areas.
6. Toilets and shared spaces.
7. Garage space for vehicles.
8. Pet areas, depending on the vessel.

Alternative routes

If there is no available sailing on your preferred date, you can consider alternative options.

1. Departure from Piraeus to Ikaria.
2. Travel via Samos and connect to Ikaria.
3. Travel via Mykonos or Syros when connections are available.
4. Flight to Ikaria via Athens, where available.
5. Combination of ferry travel and an overnight stay on an intermediate island.

The best option depends on the season, holiday length, budget and whether you are traveling with a vehicle.

What can travelers see at the destination?

Ikaria is an island with strong character, natural beauty and a relaxed rhythm. It is not a destination for rushed holidays, but for travelers who want to discover beaches, villages, festivals, trails and authentic hospitality.

Places worth seeing include:

1. Seychelles beach, one of the island’s most famous beaches.
2. Messakti and Livadi for swimming and relaxation.
3. Armenistis and Gialiskari for accommodation and walks.
4. Raches for nightlife with a unique rhythm.
5. Therma for the thermal springs.
6. Agios Kirykos for services, food and access to the southern side.
7. Evdilos for a quieter atmosphere and access to the northern side.

Useful travel tips

1. Book early if traveling in July or August.
2. Choose a cabin or numbered seat due to the long duration.
3. Check the arrival port before booking your hotel.
4. Arrive at the port earlier if traveling with a car.
5. Keep water, a charger, light snacks and personal items with you.
6. Complete web check-in when available for faster boarding.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How much does the ferry ticket cost?

A simple passenger ticket starts indicatively from €38 in economy class. The final price depends on the date, seat type, cabin, discounts and availability.

How long does the ferry trip take?

The duration usually ranges from 18 to 21 hours, depending on the schedule, intermediate stops and arrival port in Ikaria.

Which companies operate the route?

The connection is mainly served by Blue Star Ferries / Hellenic Seaways with conventional ferries that carry passengers, cabins and vehicles.

How can I book the cheapest ticket?

For a lower price, choose economy class, check different dates and book early through booktickets.gr, especially if traveling during peak season.

When should I be at the port?

Passengers without a vehicle should be at the port at least 1 hour before departure. If traveling with a car, it is better to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours earlier.

Is there a ferry all year round?

The connection is limited and may vary by season. Availability should therefore be checked for the exact travel date.

Is it worth taking a car?

Yes, if you want to explore several parts of Ikaria. The island has distances and many places are more easily reached by car.

Is there an overnight ferry?

Departures from Kavala are often in the evening, with arrival the following day. This makes a cabin particularly useful.

How early should I book tickets?

For a simple seat, a few weeks in advance may be enough. For a cabin or car, especially in summer, it is recommended to book much earlier.

Which ferries operate the line?

Long-distance conventional ferries are used on this route, such as vessels of the Blue Star Ferries / Hellenic Seaways network, depending on the schedule.

Are there direct sailings?

There are sailings that connect Kavala with Ikaria as the passenger’s final destination, but they usually include intermediate stops at other islands.

Luggage on the ferry

Passengers can carry personal luggage. Important items, documents, medication and electronic devices should remain with you.

Parking at the departure and arrival ports?

In Kavala, parking options are available in the wider port area and city center. In Ikaria, parking options depend on the arrival port and season.

What should I know about check-in & web check-in?

Check whether web check-in is available for the sailing, enter passenger and vehicle details correctly and keep your ticket or boarding pass on your mobile phone.

What happens if I miss the ferry?

If you miss the ferry, contact the agency or ferry company immediately. Ticket changes depend on fare conditions.

What ticket types are available?

There are economy tickets, numbered seats, cabins, vehicle tickets, motorcycle tickets and special discounted categories where applicable.

Can tickets be cancelled or changed to another day?

Yes, but cancellation or change conditions depend on the company, ticket type and time remaining before departure.

Can pets travel on board?

Yes, ferries have procedures for pet transport. In some cases, special cabins or pet areas are available, depending on availability.

Final conclusion

The trip from Kavala to Ikaria is an ideal choice for travelers from Northern Greece who want to reach the island without traveling all the way to Piraeus.

The route is long, but the conventional ferry offers cabins, seats, rest areas and vehicle transport. Since sailings are limited, early booking is very important, especially for summer dates, families and travelers with a car.

Content editing: booktickets.gr