Piraeus - Heraklion Ferry routes and tickets 2026

Piraeus - Heraklion: ticket prices, journey duration and ferry options

Ferry tickets from Piraeus to Heraklion start at approximately €33 for one passenger travelling in economy class, while transporting a standard car usually costs between approximately €85 and €123, excluding the driver’s passenger ticket.

The journey takes from approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes on the fastest seasonal ferry to around 9 hours and 50 minutes on most direct conventional ferry services. Some departures with several intermediate stops may require additional travel time.

The ferry connection operates throughout the year, usually with daily overnight ferries, while during the high season there may be as many as 3 to 5 departures per day.

Depending on the season, ferry services may be operated by Anek Lines, Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines and Seajets.

Through booktickets.gr, passengers can compare available departure times, seat categories, cabins and vehicle tickets for their chosen travel date.

Essential information for the Piraeus - Heraklion ferry trip

The prices above are indicative. The final fare depends on the travel date, ferry company, vessel, seating category, vehicle type and available discounts.

Departure port in Piraeus

Ferries to Heraklion depart from the main passenger port of Piraeus. Departures to Crete usually take place from gates E1, E2 or E3, although the same gate does not necessarily apply to every sailing. The exact docking point may change because of daily port traffic, operational requirements or a change of vessel.

Before travelling to the port, check the departure gate shown on your ticket or in the ferry company’s travel information. After arriving in Piraeus, confirm the gate on the electronic information boards, as the distances between different areas of the port can be considerable.

How to reach the departure gate

The port is served by Metro Lines 1 and 3, buses, suburban railway services, taxis and private vehicles. Walking from the metro station to the departure gates used by ferries to Crete may take some time. A free shuttle bus operates within the port and connects selected gates, making transfers easier for passengers travelling without a vehicle.

On busy travel days, allow additional time to enter and move around the port. Traffic near the gates used for Crete often becomes heavier shortly before the departure of the overnight ferries.

Arrival port in Heraklion

Ferries arrive at the passenger port of Heraklion, which is located very close to the historic city centre. Its location is convenient for passengers continuing towards the city, the airport, Knossos or other areas of Crete.

After disembarking, travellers can reach the centre on foot, by taxi, local bus or rental car. When travelling to destinations outside Heraklion, such as Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, Malia or southern Crete, it is advisable to arrange the next part of the journey in advance.

Getting around from Heraklion port

The distance between the port and the city centre is short, and the taxi journey usually takes only a few minutes, depending on traffic. Heraklion Airport is also located nearby. Taxis and local bus services are available outside the passenger area, while organised parking facilities can be found in the wider port district.

When renting a car, check the exact collection point with the rental company. Not all offices are located inside the port, and some companies provide a shuttle service to their premises.

How long the ferry journey takes

The duration of the Piraeus - Heraklion ferry trip depends on the type of vessel and the number of intermediate stops. Direct overnight conventional ferries usually take approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes to 9 hours and 50 minutes. The fastest seasonal services may complete the journey in around 7 hours and 50 minutes.

Some ferries also call at Milos, Serifos or several islands in the Cyclades. In these cases, the total journey time can increase considerably. For this reason, passengers should compare not only ticket prices but also arrival times, the number of stops and the type of seat or accommodation offered.

What is the fastest ferry service?

The fastest ferry service operates seasonally and takes approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes. It is usually operated by a Seajets high-speed vessel when included in the summer schedule. This option is suitable for passengers who want to arrive sooner, although the fare may be higher than an economy ticket on a conventional ferry.

Departure times and frequency

The Piraeus - Heraklion ferry route operates throughout the year. During winter, most sailings depart in the evening so that the ferry arrives in Crete the following morning. In summer, additional daytime or afternoon departures may be introduced, offering passengers a wider choice of travel times.

Typical overnight departures are scheduled between approximately 21:00 and 23:00, although the timetable is not identical every day. Seasonal ferries may also depart earlier during the day.

How many weekly ferry services operate?

During the low season, there are usually at least 7 weekly departures, although the schedule may differ during certain weeks. Between June and September, the total number of sailings may exceed 20 per week, as seasonal ferries and services with intermediate island calls are added.

To view accurate availability, passengers should search using a specific travel date. On booktickets.gr, travellers can view the available sailings, arrival times and bookable seat or cabin categories.

Intermediate stops before Heraklion

Many overnight ferries operate directly between Piraeus and Heraklion. Other departures may call at Milos or Serifos. Summer high-speed ferries may follow a longer ferry route through the Cyclades, with possible stops at Syros, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos and Santorini.

The intermediate stops are not the same on every travel date. Before booking, check whether the selected ferry is direct or includes several port calls, as this can significantly affect the overall journey duration.

Passenger ticket prices from Piraeus to Heraklion

The cheapest economy ticket generally costs between approximately €33 and €42 per passenger. Numbered aircraft-style seats usually cost between approximately €45 and €60, while business or VIP seats may cost up to approximately €89.70, depending on the vessel.

Cabins may be priced per bed or as an entire private cabin, depending on the booking category and the ferry company’s policy. Prices are usually higher for outside cabins, single cabins and luxury accommodation.

Vehicle ticket prices from Piraeus to Heraklion

The ferries operating this connection have garages for cars, motorcycles, camper vans and commercial vehicles, except for certain special seasonal services that may apply different restrictions. A vehicle ticket is issued separately from the passenger ticket of the driver.

How to find the cheapest ferry tickets from Piraeus to Heraklion

The lowest fares are usually available for economy accommodation and for travel dates outside August, public holidays and popular long weekends. To reduce the total cost:

• Book several weeks before the planned departure.
• Compare daytime and overnight ferries.
• Check whether a return-trip discount is available.
• Enter the correct student, large-family or other discount category.
• Compare the total cost for all passengers, the cabin and the vehicle rather than considering only the basic passenger fare.

Travelling from Piraeus to Heraklion with a car

Taking a car to Crete is particularly useful for travellers planning to visit several different regions of the island. The vehicle’s registration number and correct dimensions are required when issuing the ticket. Roof boxes, trailers or special vehicle modifications must also be declared during the booking process.

Drivers should preferably be at the departure gate at least 90 minutes before sailing. After parking in the garage, take all necessary personal items with you, as access to the vehicle decks is normally prohibited during the journey.

Passenger cabins

A cabin is a practical option on overnight ferries, allowing passengers to sleep during the journey and arrive in Heraklion in the morning. Ferries usually offer two-, three- and four-berth inside and outside cabins, single cabins, luxury accommodation and designated pet-friendly cabins.

An outside cabin has a window, while an inside cabin does not receive natural light and is normally more affordable. During periods of high demand, two-berth and four-berth cabins often sell out earlier than standard seats.

Ticket discounts and special offers

Available discounts vary between ferry companies and are applied only when the passenger meets the relevant conditions. Common categories include:

• Students at Greek universities and, in certain cases, ISIC cardholders.
• Children and infants, according to the company’s age limits.
• Families with three or more children.
• Passengers with disabilities and eligible accompanying persons.
• Permanent island residents holding a Unique Islander Number.
• Retired NAT seafarers and members of the armed forces, where applicable.
• Members of ferry company loyalty programmes.
• Return-trip reservations or limited early-booking offers.

Passengers may be asked to present documentation confirming their eligibility for the discount during boarding. When the required document cannot be provided, the passenger may be required to pay the difference between the discounted fare and the standard fare.

Ferry companies operating services to Heraklion

The ferry companies serving the route vary according to the season. Minoan Lines and companies belonging to the Attica Group mainly operate large conventional ferries, while Seajets may introduce seasonal high-speed services.

Comparison of ferry companies

Return ferry from Heraklion to Piraeus

The return ferry route from Heraklion to Piraeus also operates throughout the year, with frequent overnight sailings. Many passengers depart from Crete in the evening and arrive in Piraeus the following morning.

Booking both the outward and return journeys at the same time can help secure vehicle space and the preferred cabin category. This is particularly important during August and on busy return dates following public holidays.

Facilities and services available on board

Facilities vary depending on the vessel, although most conventional passenger and vehicle ferries provide:

• Air-conditioned lounges and numbered seats.
• Inside, outside and special-purpose cabins.
• Cafés, bars, self-service restaurants or full-service restaurants.
• Shops selling essential items and travel products.
• Wi-Fi, usually available for an additional charge or with limited free access.
• Designated areas for pets.
• Lifts, ramps and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Garages for cars, motorcycles and larger vehicles.

Alternative ferry routes to Crete

If the specific route does not suit your travel plan, you can consider alternative connections to Crete:

1. Piraeus - Chania, if your final destination is western Crete.
2. Piraeus - Sitia, for eastern Crete, depending on availability.

• Piraeus - Milos - Heraklion, when an intermediate connection is available.
• Heraklion - Cyclades, for combining Crete with Santorini, Naxos, Paros or Mykonos.

What travellers should see in Heraklion

Heraklion is not only the main port of eastern Crete but also an important destination with several major attractions. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses one of the world’s most significant collections of Minoan art, while the Palace of Knossos is located only a few kilometres outside the city.

In the city centre, visitors can see the Venetian Koules Fortress, the Loggia, the Morosini Fountain and 25th August Street. Heraklion also provides convenient road access to Archanes, Malia, Hersonissos, Agios Nikolaos and numerous beaches along the northern coast.

Useful tips for travelling from Piraeus to Heraklion

• Arrive at the gate 60 minutes before departure when travelling without a vehicle and at least 90 minutes earlier when travelling with a car.
• Confirm the departure gate on the day of travel.
• For an overnight crossing, book a cabin early when you want to rest during the journey.
• Take medication, a charger, a light jacket and essential personal belongings into the passenger areas.
• Check whether the ticket permits changes or cancellations before completing the booking.
• Do not leave valuable items in a visible position inside the vehicle.

Why book ferry tickets through booktickets.gr

On booktickets.gr, passengers can search for ferries available on a specific date, compare departure times, fares and accommodation categories, and complete the booking online. This comparison is particularly helpful for the Piraeus - Heraklion ferry route because the cheapest departure is not always the fastest, while the fastest vessel may not always be the most suitable option for an overnight journey.

Through booktickets.gr, travellers can also add a car, motorcycle, cabin or numbered seat and check whether an available discount applies. Before payment, the selected departure details are displayed so that passengers can confirm the ferry company, vessel, journey duration and arrival time.

Frequently asked questions about the journey

How early should I arrive at the port?

When travelling without a vehicle, it is advisable to arrive at the departure gate approximately 60 minutes before sailing. Passengers travelling with a car or motorcycle should arrive at least 90 minutes before departure, especially during summer.

Do ferries from Piraeus to Heraklion operate throughout the year?

Yes, the ferry connection operates all year. The frequency is usually higher between June and September.

Is it worth taking a car to Crete?

Yes, particularly when you plan to visit different towns, villages and beaches. A car may not be necessary when staying only in central Heraklion.

Is there an overnight ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion?

Yes. Most departures outside the peak summer period operate overnight and arrive in Heraklion the following morning.

Are there direct ferries to Heraklion?

Yes, direct overnight ferries are available. Certain seasonal services may stop at Milos, Serifos or several islands in the Cyclades.

How much luggage can I take on the ferry?

Ferry companies generally allow passengers to carry personal luggage without a check-in procedure similar to that used at airports. Large suitcases should be placed in the designated luggage storage areas, while valuable belongings should remain with the passenger.

Is parking available at the ports of Piraeus and Heraklion?

Private parking facilities operate around the port of Piraeus, although not all are located close to the gates used for ferries to Crete. In Heraklion, controlled parking facilities are available in the port area, together with private options in the city centre.

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

Check whether the selected ferry company supports web check-in and when the service becomes available. The passenger details entered during booking must match the identification document or passport. For vehicles, the correct registration number and actual size category must be entered.

Web check-in Seajets

Web check-in Blue Star Ferries

Web Check-in Hellenic Seaways

Web Check-in Minoan

What happens if I miss the ferry?

A ferry ticket is not normally transferred automatically to the next departure. Contact the issuing travel agency or ferry company immediately to check whether the ticket can be changed and which conditions apply.

Can I cancel the ticket or change the travel date?

Changes and cancellations depend on the fare type, ferry company and the amount of time remaining before departure. Discounted or promotional fares may be subject to stricter conditions.

Can I travel with a pet?

Yes, although the pet must be included in the booking and have the required health documents. Depending on the vessel, pets may travel in a designated area, an onboard kennel or a pet-friendly cabin.

In brief

The Piraeus - Heraklion journey is one of the most reliable ferry connections to Crete. Passenger tickets start at approximately €33, while transporting a car costs from approximately €85. The usual duration of a direct ferry is approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes to 9 hours and 50 minutes. Overnight conventional ferries are suitable for passengers who want a cabin and vehicle transport, while seasonal high-speed ferries reduce the overall journey time.

Before booking, compare the total duration, intermediate stops, arrival time and total price for all passengers and the vehicle. Through booktickets.gr, travellers can find the departure that best matches their schedule and travel requirements.

Content review: booktickets.gr

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