Heraklion to Rhodes Ferry

Heraklion Guide

The Greek city of Heraklion is the capital and largest city on the island of Crete. A popular visitor attraction near the city is Knossos, which is around 5 km from Heraklion. This important archaeological site was the Palace of King Minos and home to the Minotaur, if legend is to be believed. The palace was built over the remains of a former Neolithic settlement in around 1900 BC. 

An important attraction in the city itself is the Archaeological Museum which can be found on one corner of the central Eleftherias Square, in a converted power station. The museum collects and displays many artefacts from Knossos, Archanes, Phaestos, Zakros and many other important archaeological sites on the island. The museum's collection spans several thousand years and includes the Phaestos disc, classic Hellenic and Roman sculptures, frescos, jewellery, wall paintings and pottery. 

Visitors to Heraklion can take a ferry from the port, which is important for both passenger services and cargo, to destinations including Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos and Rhodes. There are also daily sailings to the mainland port of Piraeus.

Rhodes Guide

The Greek island of Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese group of islands and is a popular destination for tourists, especially as it has around 300 days of sunshine every year. The island lies in the eastern Aegean Sea and is to the north of the island of Crete and to the south east of Athens. The island has all the facilities to make it the popular tourist destination that it has become and includes a beautiful coastline and has plenty of culture and a lively nightlife. 

The island's main town, Rhodes Town, is very charming and visitors will see enormous medieval fortifications and narrow alleys that are simply full of character. However, the island's beaches are perhaps the biggest attraction and is what makes it so popular. many of the island's beaches are located on the eastern shore and Lindos stands out as offering the best stretch of sand and pebbles and is close to the Megali Paralia. 

Rhodes is connected by ferry with daily services to Piraeus, by conventional and high speed boats. During the summer months Rhodes is also connected with the rest of the Dodecanese islands, along with Crete and Cyclades.

Everything you need to know about Heraklion Rhodes ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Heraklion to Rhodes?  

We recommend to book your Crete to Rhodes ferry in advance to get it at the cheapest price. The Rhodes to Rhodes ferry cost varies depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Rhodes Heraklion ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re planning a trip in summer, it’s always best to make sure you book your ferry in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the best ferry from Rhodes to Rhodes to suit you.

Do you offer student discount on Heraklion Rhodes ferry tickets?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Heraklion Rhodes ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Heraklion to Rhodes ferry booking.

Onboard the Heraklion Rhodes ferry 

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Heraklion to Rhodes?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Heraklion to Rhodes ferry with luggage

If you're getting the Heraklion to Rhodes ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Heraklion to Rhodes ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

Blue Star Ferries: up to 50kg

What facilities are available on board ferries from Heraklion to Rhodes?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Heraklion to Rhodes ferry. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on the boat from Crete to Rhodes differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin. 

Blue Star Ferries: As well as Economy and airline-style seating, there are also both private and shared cabins available on board including 2, 3 and 4 berth cabins. 

Is there reduced mobility access on the Heraklion to Rhodes ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Heraklion to Rhodes are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

Blue Star Ferries: Special cabins, priority boarding and wheelchairs are available on board. 

Taking the ferry from Heraklion to Rhodes 

How early do I need to arrive at Heraklion port?  

If you're travelling from Heraklion to Rhodes by ferry, we recommend arriving at Heraklion port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Heraklion to Rhodes ferry tickets?

Your Crete to Rhodes ferry tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?  

The latest check-in time for your Heraklion Rhodes ferry crossing should be in your confirmation email.  

Blue star ferries: from 48 to 2 hours before the scheduled departure time 

Is there parking at Heraklion port?  

Yes, parking is available at Heraklion port.

How to get to Heraklion port 

Heraklion ferry port is located on the north coast of Crete. With good transport links, it's easy to get to the port from the rest of the island.

From Heraklion centre: the port is less than 10 minutes walk from the centre or a few minutes drive.

From Heraklion airport: you can get the Line 6 bus to Heraklion city centre. From here, you can either walk or get a taxi to the port. Alternatively, you can get a taxi from the airport direct to the port in around 10 minutes.

From elsewhere on the island: public buses are also available from various destinations across the island including Chania and Rethymno. 

Useful information on your arrival to Rhodes

Rhodes ferry port is conveniently located in the east of Rhodes town, near to the Old Town. All of the town's amenities are within walking distance including shops, restaurants and hotels. Public buses are also available near the port to take you to various other locations in Rhodes. 

If you’re travelling by car, speed limits in Rhodes are as follows:  

Built-up areas: 50km/h or 30mph
Motorways: 80km/h or 50mph