Rhodes to Kos Ferry

Is Kos a day trip from Rhodes?

Yes, a day trip is possible with a quick ferry ride.

Which islands can you get to from Kos?

Rhodes is a popular choice reachable by ferry from Kos in about 2 hours. Kalymnos, known for rock climbing, is around a 30-minute boat ride away. Symi, with colourful buildings, can be reached by ferry from Kos in roughly 2 hours.

Is there a high-speed ferry from Rhodes to Kos?

The high-speed ferry from Rhodes to Kos operated by Dodekanisos Seaways, takes 2h 5m, costs £85.

Should I fly or ferry to Kos?

Taking a ferry to Kos offers scenic views, relaxation, and a smooth travel experience. The ferry journey may take longer than flying, but some routes are similarly timed, especially when factoring in check-in and security processes at the airport. Overall, if you prioritize a more leisurely and scenic journey, the ferry is a better option.

Do you need a passport to go from Rhodes to Kos?

Yes, you typically need to carry your passport to travel from Rhodes to Kos for any checks. However, if you are a Greek citizen or EU citizen, you can use your national ID card for travel between these islands if checks are carried out. Make sure to check the most up-to-date travel requirements and regulations before your trip.

How do I get from Rhodes airport to Kos by ferry?

From Rhodes airport, take a taxi or a local bus to the port of Rhodes Town, which is about 15 kilometers away. The taxi ride takes around 20-30 minutes, while the bus may take closer to 45 minutes. Upon reaching the port, you can easily find ferries departing to Kos, a journey that typically takes about 2 hours.

Is the ferry from Rhodes to Kos rough?

The ferry ride from Rhodes to Kos can be rough at times, especially during the peak summer months when strong Meltemi winds can cause choppy seas. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before your journey and consider taking seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness. Traveling in the early morning or late evening when sea conditions tend to be calmer could help make the ride more comfortable.

What is the easiest way to travel from Rhodes to Kos?

The easiest way to travel from Rhodes to Kos is by a direct ferry, which takes around 2 hours. This is also the fastest option available. For a more scenic journey, consider taking a cruise or a boat tour that will allow you to enjoy the views of the Aegean Sea. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, opt for a slower ferry service or a passenger hydrofoil, which may take longer but costs less.

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.

Kos Guide

Kos is a Greek island that lies in the eastern Aegean Sea and is situated to the south of the island of Kalymnos and to the north of the island of Nisyros. The island, which is only around 3 miles off the Turkish coast and sits in the Keramiko Gulf, or the Kos Gulf, is the third largest of the Dodecanese islands. Kos is a well known and popular holiday destination where visitors go to enjoy the island's beaches. Kos was also one of the first Greek islands to recognise the benefits of tourism to its economy and as a result many hotels were built along the island's long and sandy coastline in the east and south. Cycling is a popular activity on Kos as the island's terrain is quite flat and because there are many bicycle hire outlets throughout the island along with some dedicated cycle paths between some of the larger hotels.  

There are daily services between Kos and Piraeus along with services between Kos and the rest of the Dodecanese, the islands of the north eastern Aegean and Turkey. The trip by conventional ferry can take up to 13 hours, depending on the intermediate stopovers, and the trip with a high speed boat can take between 5 and 8 hours.

Everything you need to know about Rhodes Kos ferry tickets

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

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

Do you offer student discount on Rhodes Kos ferry tickets?  

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

Onboard the Rhodes Kos ferry  

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

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

Rhodes to Kos ferry with luggage

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

Blue Star Ferries: up to 50kg 
Dodekanisos Seaways: up to 40kg 
SAOS Ferries: up to 50kg 

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

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Rhodes to Kos 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 Kos 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, private and shared cabins are available on board including 2, 3 and 4 berth cabins. 

Dodekanisos Seaways: There’s a variety of seating on board including economy, super economy and business seats.

SAOS Ferries: Numbered air-type seats, super economy deck seats and open-air deck seats are available on board. 

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

Yes, the ferries from Rhodes to Kos 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. 

Dodekanisos Seaways: Ships have special areas for those who need them with easy access too. The crew is also available to assist.

SAOS Ferries: Accessible areas are available for people with disabilities.   

Taking the ferry from Rhodes to Kos  

How early do I need to arrive at Rhodes port?  

If you're travelling from Rhodes to Kos by ferry, we recommend arriving at Rhodes 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 Kos ferry tickets?

Your Rhodes to Kos 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 Kos ferry crossing should be in your confirmation email.  

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

Dodekanisos Seaways: at least 1 hour before departure

SAOS Ferries: at least 1 hour before departure 

Is there parking at Rhodes port?  

Yes, parking is available at Rhodes port. However, the port can get very busy so you might have to park nearby.

How to get to Rhodes ferry 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 Kos

Kos ferry port is located in Kos Town in the northeast of the island. You can walk to the centre of Kos from the terminal in less than 10 minutes or if you've got luggage, taxis are also available. You can also get public buses to various other locations on the island. 

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

Built-up areas: 50km/h or 30mph 
Rural areas: 90km/h or 55mph 
Motorways: 130km/h or 80mph