Milos - Heraklion | Ferry tickets, schedules and departures

Milos - Heraklion ferry tickets and ferry schedules

The ferry connection from Milos to Heraklion provides a convenient way to travel from the Cyclades to Crete without returning to Piraeus. Ferries depart from Adamas, the main port of Milos, and arrive at the central passenger port of Heraklion.

The main connection is operated by Minoan Lines, using large conventional passenger and vehicle ferries equipped with cabins, numbered seats and vehicle garages. During selected periods, additional services have also been offered by Seajets, with different sailing characteristics.

This route is particularly useful for travellers combining a holiday in the Cyclades with a stay in Crete, as well as residents travelling between the two islands.

Through booktickets.gr, you can search for available departures, compare ticket categories and organise your ferry journey.

Why travelling through Adamas makes reaching Crete easier

One of the main advantages of this ferry connection is that passengers can travel from Milos to Heraklion aboard the same vessel, without changing ferries.

Minoan Lines operates services connecting Piraeus, Milos and Heraklion. Milos serves as an intermediate port on the wider ferry route, allowing passengers to board and continue directly towards Crete.

For travellers bringing their own car, this connection provides a convenient way to transfer the same vehicle from one island to another.

The route is also suitable for visitors planning a longer island-hopping holiday, combining accommodation on Milos with time in Heraklion or other areas of Crete.

When do ferries depart from Milos?

Minoan Lines serves the route with Festos Palace and Kydon Palace, which operate regular services between Piraeus and Heraklion with a stop at Milos.

Published schedules have included departures from Adamas at 01:20, arriving in Heraklion at 06:30.

On certain days, departures at 03:20, arriving at 08:30, have also been included.

Departure times and operating days must be confirmed for the selected travel date, as ferry schedules may change.

Special attention is required for sailings after midnight. If your departure is scheduled for the early hours of a particular day, you may need to arrange transportation to the port the previous evening.

Choosing the correct departure date is also important for passengers who plan to collect a rental car or travel to another town in Crete immediately after arrival.

Festos Palace and Kydon Palace: What facilities are available?

Festos Palace and Kydon Palace are large conventional passenger and vehicle ferries operated by Minoan Lines, designed for longer sea journeys.

Their facilities include:

1. Numbered aircraft-style seats
2. Interior and exterior cabins
3. Different cabin categories
4. Passenger lounges
5. Restaurants and dining areas
6. Cafés and bars
7. Onboard shops
8. Designated pet accommodation areas
9. Facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
10. Garages for cars and motorcycles

Your choice of accommodation can significantly affect comfort during the journey.

Numbered seats are suitable for travellers looking for a more economical option, while cabins provide additional privacy.

For passengers travelling during the night, being able to rest in a private space may be an important factor when choosing their ticket category.

What should you know about travelling with a car?

Minoan Lines ferries serving this connection are equipped with garages for cars, motorcycles and other permitted vehicle categories.

When booking, you must declare the correct vehicle type and provide the required details.

The car ticket is issued separately from the driver's passenger ticket.

Different transport conditions may apply to larger vehicles, motorhomes or vehicles fitted with additional equipment.

If you are travelling with an electric car or a vehicle using alternative fuels, you must follow the ferry company's specific safety requirements.

Bringing your own vehicle is particularly convenient if you intend to explore destinations beyond Heraklion, where independent transportation can make travelling around Crete easier.

Cabin or numbered seat for the crossing?

Choosing between a cabin and a numbered seat depends on your personal needs and the availability of accommodation on the selected departure.

Aircraft-style seats provide an assigned place and are suitable for passengers who do not require a private room.

Cabins offer greater privacy and the opportunity to rest during the journey. They can be particularly useful for families with children, older travellers and passengers who wish to arrive in Crete feeling rested.

Available cabin categories and their corresponding fares are displayed during the ticket search process.

During periods of increased passenger demand, checking your preferred accommodation category well in advance is advisable.

Departing from Adamas port in Milos

The passenger port of Milos is located in Adamas, on the northern side of the island's large natural bay.

Adamas port - Google Maps

Adamas is the island's main ferry gateway and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, cafés and tourist services.

Passengers staying in Adamas can reach the boarding area on foot from many parts of the settlement.

If you are travelling from Plaka, Tripiti, Pollonia or another area of Milos, arrange your transportation to the port before departure.

Late-night and early-morning departures limit local public transport options. Booking a taxi or arranging a private transfer may therefore be necessary.

If you are travelling with a car, plan to arrive at least 1 hour before departure and follow the company's vehicle loading instructions.

Arriving in Heraklion and reaching the city centre

The ferry arrives at the main passenger port of Heraklion, on the northern coast of Crete.

Heraklion port - Google Maps

The port is close to the city centre and the Koules Fortress area, providing convenient access to hotels, shops and essential services.

From the passenger terminal, you can reach central Heraklion by taxi or on foot, provided your luggage allows for an easy walk.

The main intercity bus station is also located nearby, offering connections to other parts of Crete.

If you plan to continue towards Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos or southern Crete, organising your onward transportation before arrival can make your journey easier.

Heraklion Airport is located east of the port and can be reached by taxi or public transport.

Minoan Lines ferry discounts and special offers

Minoan Lines offers special fare categories and promotional discounts for eligible passenger groups.

Before purchasing your tickets, you can explore:

1. Ferry ticket discounts for children and infants, with special fares for eligible age groups.
2. Student ferry ticket discounts, for qualifying students with the required documents.
3. Minoan Lines special offers, including information on family, passenger and vehicle discounts.
4. Return ferry ticket discounts, when the applicable conditions are met.

Minoan Lines promotional offers have included a 20% discount on return tickets, provided that the outward and return journeys are booked together and the relevant fare conditions are satisfied.

The availability of any discount must be confirmed for the specific route, travel date and ticket category.

How to organise your return journey from Heraklion to Milos

For a round trip, you can explore the Heraklion - Milos ferry route.

Ferries depart from the main port of Heraklion and travel towards Adamas.

Return departure times should be checked separately, as the two directions do not follow identical schedules.

If you are bringing a car, make sure garage space is available on both journeys.

Through booktickets.gr, you can search for available departures and organise your complete ferry reservation.

Booking ferry tickets and completing online check-in

Tickets for the Milos - Heraklion ferry route can be booked online.

The booking process includes:

1. Selecting the route and departure date.
2. Searching for available ferries.
3. Choosing the number of passengers.
4. Selecting a seat or cabin category.
5. Adding a car or motorcycle if required.
6. Applying an eligible passenger discount.
7. Entering passenger details and completing payment.

Minoan Lines supports electronic tickets and online Web Check-in.

Online check-in is available from 48 hours to 2 hours before the scheduled departure.

Once the process has been completed, you can save your electronic ferry ticket on your smartphone and present it during boarding together with the required identification document.

Frequently asked questions about the Milos - Heraklion ferry

Which port in Milos do ferries depart from?

Ferries depart from Adamas, the main passenger port of Milos. The port serves ferry connections with Piraeus, Crete and other Greek islands.

Do I need to change ferries to reach Heraklion?

No. Minoan Lines operates the connection aboard the same vessel, so passengers do not need to transfer to another ferry during the journey.

Can I bring a car or motorcycle?

Yes. Minoan Lines conventional ferries have vehicle garages. You must select the appropriate vehicle category during booking, and garage space must be available.

Are pet-friendly cabins available?

Minoan Lines provides designated pet accommodation options aboard its vessels. The availability of a specific pet-friendly cabin must be confirmed for the selected ferry and departure.

What should I know when travelling with an electric car?

Vehicles using alternative fuels are subject to specific transport and safety requirements. Before departure, you must follow Minoan Lines instructions regarding vehicle condition and boarding procedures.

Can I board using only the electronic ticket on my phone?

Yes, provided you have completed the required Web Check-in and received your electronic boarding pass. You must also carry a valid identity card or another accepted identification document.

Content edited by: booktickets.gr