Rhodes to Heraklion Ferry

Rhodes Guide

The Greek island of Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands and lies in the eastern Aegean Sea, to the north east of the island of Crete and south east of Athens. The island is also a short distance off the coast of Turkey. Rhodes Town is the island's capital and main town and its Old Town is a rich tapestry made up of different civilisations and cultures. The city's medieval walls, its fortress like buildings, the gates, bastions, narrow alleys, old houses, fountains and busy squares combine to make all visitors feel as though they have stepped back thousands of years. Outside of Rhodes Town the island has a number of small villages and beach resorts that are popular with tourists. The main ones are Faliraki, Lindos, Kremasti, Pefkos, Archangelos, Haraki, Koskinou, Afantou, Paradisi, Trianta and Embona. 

From the island's port, ferry services depart to Piraeus by both conventional and high speed ferry. The island is also connected to the rest of the Dodecanese Islands, the Cyclades Islands and to Crete during the summer months.

Heraklion Guide

Located on the Greek island of Crete, Heraklion is the island's largest city and is one of the main urban centres in Greece. The city can trace its history back to at least the 9th century AD when its development began and then later came under the influence of the Arabs, the Venetians and the Ottomans. Popular sites in the city with tourists include the fortification walls that are essentially the boundary of the old city. These were first built by the Arabs and then reinforced by the Venetians. From the seven bastions, only the Martinengo bastion survives to this day and is where visitors will find the tomb of the renowned writer N. Kazantzakis, overlooking the city. The city was also a venue during the 2004 Olympic Games, and hosted games of the football tournament. 

Located in the city's old port, visitors can still see the vaulted tarsanades where ships used to be built and also the 16th century Koule Fortress. From the port, ferries depart to destinations including Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos and Rhodes. There are also ferry services to the Greek mainland port of Piraeus.

Everything you need to know about Rhodes Heraklion ferry tickets

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

We recommend to book your Rhodes to Crete ferry in advance to get it at the cheapest price. The Heraklion to Heraklion ferry cost varies depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Heraklion Rhodes 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 Heraklion to Heraklion to suit you.

Do you offer student discount on Rhodes Heraklion ferry tickets?  

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

Onboard the Rhodes Heraklion ferry 

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

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

Rhodes to Heraklion ferry with luggage

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

Blue Star Ferries: up to 50kg

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

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Rhodes to Heraklion 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 Rhodes to Crete 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 Rhodes to Heraklion ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Rhodes to Heraklion 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 Rhodes to Heraklion 

How early do I need to arrive at Rhodes port?  

How early you need to arrive at Rhodes for your ferry all depends on the ferry company you're travelling with. In general, we recommend arriving at the 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 Rhodes to Heraklion ferry tickets?

Your Rhodes to Crete 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 Rhodes Heraklion 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 Rhodes port?  

Yes, parking is available at Rhodes port.

How to get to Rhodes port 

Rhodes ferry port is located in the east of Rhodes town, near to the Old Town.

From Rhodes town:
By foot: 10 minute walk
By taxi: a few minutes drive 

From Rhodes airport:
By taxi: approximately 20-30 minutes
By public bus: around 40 minutes

Useful information on your arrival to Heraklion

Heraklion ferry port is located on the north coast of Crete. With good transport links, it's easy to access the rest of the island from the port with public buses taking you to destinations such as Chania and Rethymno. 

Getting to Heraklion city centre from Heraklion port:

By foot: the port is less than 10 minutes walk from Heraklion city centre
By taxi: the port is just a few minutes drive from the centre

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

Built-up areas: 50km/h or 30mph
Outside built-up areas: 90km/h or 56mph
Motorways: 110km/h - 130km/h or 68mph - 80mph