Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) Ferry

Heraklion to Santorini Travel Guide

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.

How to get to Heraklion ferry port

Heraklion ferry port is located on the northern coast of Crete and is easily reached by car and public transport. If you are travelling by car, simply follow the Green National Road 90 as this joins the port with all the major cities on the northern coast. Alternatively, there is a public bus service that departs hourly from Chania, which drops passengers directly outside the terminals.

Santorini Guide

The Greek island of Santorini is one of the Cyclades group of islands that lies in the south Aegean Sea. The island has very much been shaped by its volcanic past which has created a rather unusual landscape in places. A popular site on the island is the water filled 'Caldera' crater and is surrounded by a wall of colourful cliffs which are packed full of charming houses. The island is also known for its lovely beaches, its busy port, its archaeological finds and the wonderful sunsets which are best viewed from the village of Oia, on the island's northernmost tip.

The island's beaches are distinctive in that they are mainly made up of dark volcanic sands, which can get very hot during the summer, and therefore a sun lounger or towel are an essential piece of kit. The best beaches tend to be located around the eastern coastline and always popular is the stretch found at Perissa. However, a little to the south is Perivolos Beach which is also lovely as is Red Beach which is close to ancient Akrotiri, where the red cliffs are hard to miss.

Everything you need to know about Heraklion to Thira ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira)?  

We recommend to book your ferry from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) in advance to get it at the cheapest price. The Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) ferry cost varies depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Santorini (Thira) 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 wanting to travel on a Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) ferry in summer it’s always best to make sure you book in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the best ferry from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) to suit you.

Do you offer student discount on Heraklion Santorini (Thira) ferry tickets?  

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

Onboard the Heraklion Santorini (Thira) ferry 

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira)?

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

Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) ferry with luggage

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

Seajets: up to 50kg  
Blue Star Ferries: up to 50kg   

What facilities are available on board ferries from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira)?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) 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 Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) 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. 

Seajets: The high-speed ferries do not have cabins on board. Instead, there’s airline-style seating available. You can choose from standard Economy seats or Business/VIP seats for extra comfort and additional amenities.

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 Santorini (Thira) ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) 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.

Seajets: People with reduced mobility can travel on all ferry routes. Just let them know when boarding the ship or at the time of booking.  

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

Taking the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) 

How early do I need to arrive at Heraklion port?  

If you're travelling from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) 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 Santorini (Thira) ferry tickets?

Your Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) 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 Santorini (Thira) ferry crossing should be in your confirmation email.  

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

Seajets: 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 Santorini (Thira)

Santorini can get very busy in peak season. If you’re travelling during the summer, it’s best to arrange transportation to your accommodation beforehand as finding a taxi at the port can be tricky.

If you’re travelling by car, Santorini’s speed limits are as follows:  

Urban areas: 50km/h or 31mph
Open roads: 80km/h or 49mph
Highways: 100km/h or 62mph