Samos - Chios : Ferry tickets and routes
- Passenger ferry tickets from €10 for Samos - Chios
- Car ferry tickets: separate fare based on the departure port and vehicle category
- Crossing duration: from 2 hours 35 minutes to 4 hours 5 minutes
- Ferry operator: Blue Star Ferries
- Frequency: 2 main weekly connections, with seasonal adjustments
- Ferry: Blue Star Myconos
- Departure ports: Vathy and Karlovasi
- Direct crossings from Vathy, with an intermediate stop at Vathy when departing from Karlovasi
- Car transport, cabins and electronic tickets available
Samos - Chios: Ferry Tickets from Vathy and Karlovasi
When travelling from Samos to Chios, you can choose between two departure ports: Vathy and Karlovasi. Your choice affects the crossing duration, the journey to the ferry terminal and the total travel cost.
The connection is operated by Blue Star Ferries with the conventional passenger and vehicle ferry Blue Star Myconos.
Economy passenger tickets start from €10 when departing from Vathy and €10.50 from Karlovasi. Car transport requires a separate ticket.
The fastest crossing departs from Vathy and takes 2 hours 35 minutes. From Karlovasi, the journey is longer because the ferry calls at Vathy before continuing to Chios.
Through booktickets.gr, you can search for Samos - Chios ferry tickets and select the departure port that best suits your accommodation and travel plans.
Which Samos Port Should You Choose for Chios?
Vathy is located on the eastern side of Samos, close to Samos Town and Kokkari. Karlovasi serves the western and northwestern parts of the island.
If you are staying in Samos Town, departing from Vathy reduces the distance you need to travel before boarding.
For visitors staying in Karlovasi, Vourliotes or nearby villages, departing from the western port may be more convenient.
The two options have separate booking pages:
Before booking, consider the distance between your accommodation and each port.
How Much Do Samos - Chios Ferry Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices vary according to the departure port and available seating categories.
The main options include:
- Vathy - Chios, economy passenger ticket: from €10
- Karlovasi - Chios, economy passenger ticket: from €10.50
- Reserved airline-style seats: separate fare
- Business class seating: additional charge
- Interior or exterior cabin: separate fare
- Car and motorcycle transport: fare based on vehicle category and available garage space
These starting prices apply to selected fares and are not guaranteed for every travel date.
If you are travelling with your family and a car, compare the total cost of passenger tickets and vehicle transport before deciding which port to use.
How Long Is the Ferry from Samos to Chios?
The crossing duration depends on where you board.
From Vathy, the direct crossing takes between 2 hours 35 minutes and 2 hours 45 minutes.
From Karlovasi, the total journey takes between 3 hours 45 minutes and 4 hours 5 minutes.
Blue Star Myconos is a conventional ferry rather than a high-speed vessel.
For passengers looking for the shortest time at sea, departing from Vathy is the faster option.
Which Ferry Operates the Samos - Chios Route?
Blue Star Ferries operates the route with Blue Star Myconos.
The ferry provides passenger accommodation and vehicle garage facilities.
Onboard services include:
- Economy passenger seating
- Reserved airline-style seats
- Interior and exterior cabins
- Pet-friendly cabins
- Indoor passenger lounges
- Café and dining facilities
- Garages for cars and motorcycles
For overnight departures, a reserved seat can offer greater comfort. Cabins are also available, subject to availability.
Weekly Ferry Departures and Sailing Times
The main connection operates with two weekly ferry journeys calling at both Samos ports.
The scheduled departures include:
- Wednesday from Karlovasi at 02:10, arriving in Chios at 06:15
- Wednesday from Vathy at 03:30, arriving in Chios at 06:15
- Saturday from Karlovasi at 01:00, arriving in Chios at 04:55
- Saturday from Vathy at 02:20, arriving in Chios at 04:55
These departure options represent two journeys by the same ferry each week, not four separate ferry services.
Sailing times may differ during selected operating periods, including changes to the Saturday service.
Because departures take place during the night, check the calendar date carefully before arranging transport to the port.
Direct Ferry or an Intermediate Stop at Vathy?
When departing from Vathy, Blue Star Myconos travels directly to Chios.
When departing from Karlovasi, the ferry first calls at Vathy before continuing to Chios.
Passengers do not need to change vessels. Those boarding in Karlovasi remain on the same ferry during the stop at Vathy.
This is the main difference between the two departure options.
Vathy Port, Samos: Access and Boarding
Vathy Port is located close to Samos Town.
Address: Vathy Passenger Port, 83100 Samos, Greece.
If you are staying in the town centre, you can reach the port on foot.
For overnight departures from more distant areas, arranging a taxi or another means of transport in advance is advisable.
There are shops and some sheltered areas along the waterfront. However, an air-conditioned waiting room is not guaranteed next to the ferry's boarding point.
Karlovasi Port: Departures from Western Samos
Karlovasi is the second main passenger port on Samos.
Address: Karlovasi Port, 83200 Karlovasi, Samos, Greece.
The port serves the western part of the island and is located close to Karlovasi Town.
If you are travelling with a car, allow enough time to reach the vehicle boarding area and join the garage queue.
Passengers without vehicles should arrive at least 1 hour before departure. For cars, allow 1 hour 30 minutes.
Chios Port: Arriving in the Main Town
Blue Star Myconos arrives at the main passenger port of Chios.
Address: Chios Central Passenger Port, Chios Waterfront, 82100 Chios, Greece.
The port is situated beside the town centre, within walking distance of hotels, cafés and shops.
As the ferry may arrive before sunrise, it is advisable to arrange transport to your accommodation before travelling.
Taxi services operate in Chios Town, but immediate availability is not guaranteed for every overnight arrival.
Car Transport, Luggage and Special Equipment
Blue Star Myconos has a vehicle garage for cars and motorcycles.
During booking, enter the vehicle type, category and actual dimensions.
If your car has a roof box, bicycle rack or trailer, these accessories must be declared whenever required.
Large suitcases should be placed in the designated luggage storage areas.
Keep your phone, documents, medication and personal belongings with you.
Access to the vehicle garage is not permitted while the ferry is sailing.
Onboard Facilities: Food, Wi-Fi and Charging
Blue Star Myconos has a café and dining facilities.
Wi-Fi availability and any applicable charges should be checked for the selected service. A stable connection is not guaranteed throughout the crossing.
Charging points may be available in certain shared areas, but an individual electrical socket is not guaranteed at every economy seat.
Toilets and common areas are used throughout the voyage. These facilities may be busier when passenger occupancy is high.
Blue Star Ferries Discounts for Samos - Chios
Blue Star Ferries offers reduced fares to eligible passenger categories.
Explore the available discount categories:
- Ferry ticket discounts for children and infants, with reductions of up to 50%.
- Student discounts on ferry tickets, for eligible students.
- Discounts for families with three or more children, subject to the required documentation.
- Return ferry ticket offers, where an applicable promotion is available.
- Special offers for passengers with cars, on selected bookings.
Discount eligibility depends on the passenger category and the conditions of the selected fare.
How to Book Samos - Chios Ferry Tickets
Through booktickets.gr, you can complete your reservation by selecting the correct departure port.
- Choose Vathy or Karlovasi, Samos, as your departure port.
- Select Chios as your destination.
- Enter your travel date.
- Add the number of passengers.
- Include a car or motorcycle if required.
- Choose your seating category and available discounts.
- Complete payment and receive your booking confirmation.
Blue Star Ferries supports electronic tickets and web check-in for eligible reservations.
Return Ferry from Chios to Samos
For the return journey from Chios, you can choose between Vathy and Karlovasi.
Explore the corresponding ferry connections:
For a broader search, you can also visit the Chios - Samos ferry route.
Before booking your return, check which port on Samos you will arrive at.
Ferry Connections from Samos to Other Destinations
Samos is connected by ferry to islands in the Eastern and Northern Aegean, as well as mainland Greece.
From its two main ports, you can explore:
- Vathy, Samos - Chios
- Karlovasi, Samos - Chios
- Vathy, Samos - Syros
- Vathy, Samos - Kavala
- Karlovasi, Samos - Mykonos
These connections differ in frequency and operating days.
What to Visit in Chios After Arrival
Chios offers historic villages, beautiful beaches and driving routes worth exploring.
In Chios Town, you can visit Chios Castle and walk along the waterfront.
In the southern part of the island, Mesta and Pyrgi stand out for their traditional architecture.
Kampos is known for its historic mansions and citrus orchards.
For swimming, consider Karfas, Megas Limnionas and Mavra Volia.
If you have several days available, you can also explore northern Chios, where having a car is particularly useful.
Practical Tips for Overnight Ferry Travel
Most main departures take place during the night.
Check the departure date carefully, especially when the ferry leaves shortly after midnight.
If you are staying far from the port, arrange your transfer in advance.
When you arrive in Chios, some shops and services may not yet be open.
It is useful to carry water, a fully charged phone and the details of your accommodation.
Strong Winds and Adverse Weather Conditions
The sea area between Samos and Chios is affected by northerly winds in the Aegean.
Summer Meltemi winds can create rough sea conditions.
During winter, severe weather may cause delays or sailing restrictions.
When the port authorities impose a sailing ban, ferry services resume once maritime operations are permitted again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Samos - Chios Ferries
Can I travel with my pet on Blue Star Myconos?
Yes. The ferry has designated pet areas and special cabins. Pets must be declared during booking, and passengers must carry the required animal health documents.
Can I transport a bicycle?
Bicycle transport is permitted according to the ferry company's conditions. Declare your bicycle during booking to confirm the boarding arrangements.
Can I change my ticket after it has been issued?
Changes depend on the fare conditions and availability. Some discounted tickets may have restrictions.
Are taxis available at Chios Port early in the morning?
Taxi services operate in Chios Town. For arrivals before sunrise, arranging your transfer in advance is recommended.
How can I get from Chios Port to the airport?
Chios Airport is located south of the town and can be reached by road. You can travel by car or taxi.
How can I visit Oinousses from Chios?
Oinousses is connected to Chios by ferry. Explore the Chios - Oinousses ferry route to plan your visit.
In Brief
The Samos - Chios ferry route is operated by Blue Star Ferries with the conventional vessel Blue Star Myconos.
Passengers can depart from Vathy or Karlovasi. The crossing from Vathy is direct and faster, while departures from Karlovasi include an intermediate stop at Vathy.
The ferry offers economy seating, reserved seats, cabins and vehicle garage facilities.
Book your ferry tickets through booktickets.gr, selecting the departure port and travel date that best suit your plans.
Content edited by: booktickets.gr