Crete is the largest of the Greek islands. It’s a marvellous island that combines all the pleasures of nature, renowned gastronomy, landscapes ideal for hiking, sublime beaches and impressive cultural sites. This makes it a particularly pleasant vacation destination. Taking a ferry to Crete rather than flying is an interesting option. Here’s some useful information and practical advice to make your crossing easier.
Contents :
- Plane or ferry to Crete?
- Ferry routes to Crete
- How long is the ferry crossing to Crete from Athens?
- Practical advice
- Which ferry company to choose for Crete: Anek Lines or Minoan Lines?
Plane or ferry to Crete?
If you come directly from France, the plane is faster. Especially in high season when there are direct flights to Crete.
Crete has three main airports:
- Heraklion Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport (HER)
- Chania Ioannis Daskalogiannis International Airport (CHQ)
- Sitia International Airport (JSH)
Nevertheless, going to Crete by ferry offers several advantages:
- if you make a stopover in Athens, the ferry is generally cheaper than the plane, especially if you’re travelling with a family and there are a lot of you.
- the ferry allows one car on board. Very practical for exploring the island!
- the ferry crossing has a certain charm all of its own. The ferries are comfortable and well-equipped. And it’s a joy to discover Crete from the sea, in the early hours of the morning, after an overnight crossing. Boating is an adventure that makes your stay unforgettable. If you have children, they generally enjoy sleeping on the boat.
- Finally, the ferry is more eco-responsible than the plane.
Ferry routes to Crete
There are ferries to Crete all year round. Crossings run from the port of Piraeus (Athens) to Crete’s three main ports (Heraklion, Chania and Sitia). Of course, they are more frequent in summer, but there are still daily connections all year round.
Depending on the season, ferries also depart from the port of Rafina (not far from Athens airport) to Cretan ports.
Find out more about ferry routes to Crete below.
How long is the ferry crossing to Crete from Athens?
Depending on the type of boat and itinerary, journey times vary between 6.30 and 20 hours.
For example, if you take a ferry from Piraeus to Chania, aboard the Kydon Palace, you’ll arrive on the island in just 6.5 hours.
Don’t worry about journey times: most crossings are at night, so you’ll never see the time go by.
Practical advice
Most ferry journeys to Crete take place at night. For greater comfort and peace of mind, we strongly advise you to book a cabin for a more comfortable crossing. It’s a bit more expensive, but well worth it.
The ferries to Crete are comfortable and well-equipped. All are equipped with cabins with berths (to be booked at the same time as the ticket). There’s wifi on board.
You will also find restaurant, snack bar and cafes on board.
There’s also a store selling on the ferries to Crete. Perfect for buying a few souvenirs or small items to spend the journey.
Which ferry company to choose for Crete: Anek Lines or Minoan Lines?
In high season, both companies (Minoan Lines and Anek Lines) serve both ports. In low season, Anek usually serves Chania and Heraklion, while Minoan only goes to Heraklion.
If you’re looking for a ferry to Crete and the port of Heraklion, we recommend Minoan Lines. The company’s boats are well maintained and the service on board is excellent.
If you’re heading to Chania, depending on the season, you may have no choice. You may be required to travel with Anek Lines.
Personally, to book our ferry ticket to Crete, we always use the Ferry Hopper website. Firstly, because this site is reliable, practical and has an English platform. But also because Ferry Hopper doesn’t charge any additional fees: it’s the same price as when you buy tickets at the port!
*****
We wish you an excellent trip to Crete. You’ll find plenty of advice on recommended accommodation, tours and things to see and do on the island in our Crete section.
Laure M.
31 January 2024
