Athens (Piraeus) - Hydra
Ferries to Saronic Islands
Athens (Piraeus) - Hydra
Ferries to Saronic Islands
Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra are operated by 3 ferry companies, including Blue Star Ferries, Alpha Lines & Magic Sea Ferries. The crossing typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. There are currently 75 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $34. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Hydra today.
The Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry is a year-round service spanning approximately 34.3 nautical miles across the Saronic Gulf, connecting the main port of Athens with one of the most extraordinary islands in Greece.
Hydra is the only car-free island in Europe of significant size, where wheeled vehicles are banned by law. Alternatively, 500 donkeys and mules handle the island's transportation needs. This route is served by 3 operators providing 75 weekly sailings, with up to 11 daily sailings in peak periods. The ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra is the only way to reach the island, as there is no airport, no road bridge, and no car ferry.
Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry prices typically range from $34 to $261. The average ferry price from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra is around $161. The cheapest fares usually start from $34. The average foot passenger ticket costs $161.
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated July 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry cost approximately $34.26.
Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our Special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. Booking early is typically the most reliable way to secure lower fares and better availability.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.
Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.
Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address must be presented at check-in.
There are around 75 weekly sailings from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra.
Blue Star Ferries provide 5 sailings daily, 36 sailings weekly. Alpha Lines provide 2 sailings daily, 13 sailings weekly. Magic Sea Ferries provide 4 sailings daily, 26 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.
The first ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra usually departs at around 08:00, with the last sailing leaving Athens (Piraeus) Port at approximately 20:10.
Yes, day trips between Athens (Piraeus) and Hydra are very popular thanks to the short crossing time and frequent sailings. Traveling with a vehicle is a great way to explore the area at your own pace. For inspiration on the best things to do in Hydra, please visit our blog.
The fastest ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra is with Blue Star Ferries & Magic Sea Ferries in 1 hour 10 minutes.
The fastest ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra usually cost around $161.24.
Yes, Blue Star Ferries & Magic Sea Ferries allow cars on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra. Use our Deal Finder to view live prices for car ferries on this route.
Here are our top tips for traveling with a car:
Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry.
For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.
Bicycles are currently not permitted on ferries sailing between Athens (Piraeus) and Hydra.
Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra with Blue Star Ferries, Alpha Lines & Magic Sea Ferries.
First class is not available on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra.
Yes, you can book cabins on ferries that sail from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra with Blue Star Ferries. The price of a cabin on the Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry ranges from $34.25 and $678.28, with an average price of $156.48. Please note that prices may vary depending on the type of cabin you book.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Athens (Piraeus) and Hydra depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check if an overnight option is available, alongside current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.
Pets are allowed on ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra with Blue Star Ferries. The average price for traveling with a pet is $88.
Pricing is based on searches from the last 30 days, excluding service fees, and was last updated July 26.
When traveling with your pet on a ferry, you'll usually need:
Where your pet stays on the ferry depends on the operator. Some ferries require pets to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing, while others provide dedicated areas such as pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels or lounges.
Be sure to check the rules before you travel, as some operators have restrictions on the type or number of pets you can bring. If your route offers cabins, kennels or lounges, we also recommend booking in advance, as these spots tend to fill up fast.
Our Deal Finder shows you all the available options, so you can choose the ferry crossing that best suits you and your pet's travel needs.
Blue Star Ferries:
Magic Sea Ferries:
Alpha Lines:
If you're traveling with a guide dog or assistance dog, we recommend informing the ferry operator or our customer service team at the time of booking.
Please ensure you carry all required documentation, as you may be asked to present this during check-in or while onboard.
Even where standard pet travel is not permitted, different rules may apply to guide and assistance dogs. You can confirm the specific requirements for your sailing by reaching out to our customer service team.
The Piraeus to Hydra ferry is a popular way to reach this charming car-free island, with high-speed catamarans making the journey quick and easy. As this is a daytime journey, overnight cabins aren't available, but it's still worth knowing what to expect onboard, especially if you're traveling with luggage or children.
Most catamarans offer comfortable indoor seating with airline-style seats. This is the standard option for the vast majority of travelers and works well whether the sea is calm or a little choppy.
Some boats offer limited outdoor deck space, though high-speed catamarans generally have less outdoor access than slower, more traditional ferries. If outdoor seating is available, it's a nice spot to enjoy views of the Saronic Gulf and the approach into Hydra's picturesque harbor.
Most catamarans have a small bar or kiosk selling coffee, drinks, and snacks. Given the speed of the crossing, the choice may be fairly limited, so it's worth grabbing something at the port in Piraeus beforehand if you'd prefer more options.
Where available, open deck access is a nice way to enjoy the journey, especially as you approach Hydra. The island's car-free harbor, lined with stone mansions and fishing boats, is a lovely sight best appreciated from outside as the boat comes in to dock.
There are no dedicated play areas on this route, but the relatively short crossing time makes it manageable for most children. The exciting arrival into Hydra's harbor, where donkeys and water taxis take the place of cars, is usually enough to keep younger travelers interested.
There's space for luggage inside the cabin, though it's fairly limited given the size of the boats used on this route. Since Hydra has no cars or motorized vehicles, you'll need to carry your own luggage from the harbor to your accommodation, or arrange for a donkey or porter to help with heavier bags.
A direct ferry service operates between Piraeus and Hydra. As Hydra has no airport, the ferry is the only way to reach the island, making it one of the most convenient ways to travel between Athens and Hydra.
Depending on the operator selected, ferries offer varying levels of comfort and crossing times, with high-speed catamarans providing a quick and scenic journey across the Saronic Gulf. Traveling by sea also offers a relaxing experience, allowing passengers to arrive in Hydra feeling refreshed and ready to explore this car-free island.
The recommended arrival time at Piraeus ferry port depends on the operator you are travelling with, so passengers should check their booking confirmation in advance.
Piraeus port is large and can be busy, particularly during the summer months, so clear signage is helpful, but arriving in good time remains important for a smooth journey.
As a general guideline, we recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before departure, as this route is for foot passengers only and gates can be some distance apart within the port.
Parking is available in the vicinity of Piraeus port, with both short and long-term options located close to the terminal. We recommend checking availability in advance, particularly during busier periods.
A pay-and-display car park is situated a short distance from the main terminal, suitable for longer stays.
Pre-booking a parking space is strongly advised, as availability can be limited and demand is high during the summer months and at weekends.
Passengers seeking accommodation near the port of Piraeus ahead of their journey are encouraged to consult our Accommodation page for a range of options and competitive rates. A variety of properties are available to suit different budgets and preferences.
Staying close to the port can simplify your departure considerably, allowing for a more relaxed start to the journey. We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best rates, particularly during peak periods when availability can become limited.
Operators on this route aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility wherever possible, although facilities vary by vessel. We recommend contacting your chosen operator directly for detailed guidance before travel.
Where available, vessels may offer assistance with boarding, designated seating, and crew support. Passengers requiring assistance should notify the operator well in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Blue Star Ferries:
Alpha Lines:
Magic Sea Ferries:
Luggage allowances on the Piraeus to Hydra route vary by operator. As this route is for foot passengers only, most companies permit one piece of luggage weighing up to 50kg, though it's always best to check in advance as larger or additional items may incur an extra fee.
| Operator | Included Luggage | Size Limit | Weight Limit | Notes / Extra Charges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Star Ferries | 1–2 pieces (plus small hand luggage) | No strict dimensions (must fit in storage areas) | Up to 50 kg or 1m³ | Luggage stored in designated areas; limited access during journey; extra items may incur a fee |
| Alpha Lines | 1–2 pieces | No strict size stated | Up to 50 kg | High-speed vessels; luggage must be manageable and may be stored separately onboard |
| Magic Sea Ferries | 1–2 pieces | No strict dimensions (standard suitcase recommended) | Up to 50 kg or 1m³ | Luggage placed in designated storage areas; valuables should be kept with passenger |
Ferries to Hydra from Piraeus arrive at the main port in Hydra Town, located right at the heart of the island. From the terminal, it is a short walk into the town center, with its picturesque harbor and historic architecture. As Hydra is car-free, onward exploration is done on foot, by water taxi, or by donkey, with the island's narrow cobbled streets and beaches easily reached from the port. For more information, check out our port guide below.
Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra, and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.
To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.
Booking your Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.
The best time to book ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra is as early as possible. Booking in advance often secures lower prices, along with a wider choice of departure times, seating, and cabin options. We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, particularly during peak holiday seasons. Prices can vary depending on demand and availability.
Children between the ages of 5 and 10 are eligible for a 50% discount on most sailings, including applicable fees. Children from 0 to 4 years of age travel for free, though they will not be allocated an individual seat.
ISIC card holders are eligible for a 50% discount on tickets to Hydra with most operators on this route. Students traveling to Hydra should present their valid ISIC card at the time of booking or at the ticket booth before boarding to claim the discount.
Operators periodically offer promotional offers and discounts, particularly ahead of the peak summer season. Booking early is the most reliable way to find cheap Athens to Hydra ferry tickets. You can also find great offers on accommodation in Hydra by visiting our accommodation page.
If no sailings from Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.
After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.
Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.
Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.
At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.
| Season | From price |
|---|---|
| Autumn (Sep - Nov) | $46 |
| Summer (Jun - Aug) | $34 |
*Based on a one-way trip with one adult
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $34 |
| Cabin | $34 |
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| Athens (Piraeus) - Hydra Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $161 | |
| Average Cabin Price | $156 | |
| Athens (Piraeus) - Hydra Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Athens |
| Destination | Saronic Islands |
| No. of Operators | 3 |
| Operators | Blue Star Ferries, Alpha Lines & Magic Sea Ferries |
| Average Price | $161 |
| Average Pet Price | $88 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 11 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 75 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 1 h 30 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 1 h 10 m |
| First Ferry | 08:00 |
| Last Ferry | 20:10 |
| Distance | 34 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 July 2026.
Piraeus is the largest ferry port in Europe and the preferred departure port for all ferries from Athens to the Saronic islands, including Hydra. Ferries to Hydra depart from Gate E8, which is located closer to the main port entrance and metro station than the Cyclades E-gates, making it one of the easier departure points to reach at Piraeus. Please note that gate assignments can change, so always confirm on your booking confirmation and check the electronic boards on arrival.
The Green Line (Line 1) connects Piraeus station directly to central Athens (Monastiraki, Omonia) in approximately 30 minutes. Gate E8 is around 10 minutes on foot from the metro station. Please ensure that you allow extra time if traveling with heavy luggage, bearing in mind that Hydra has no wheeled transport and packing light is strongly advised.
Taxis from central Athens to Piraeus cost approximately $20–$30 and take around 20–30 minutes outside rush hour. From Athens International Airport, a taxi takes approximately 45–60 minutes and costs around $55–$65. The Suburban Railway (Proastiakos) connects Athens Airport with Piraeus in approximately 65 minutes, which is the most cost-effective option for travelers arriving by plane.
Boarding: As a general rule of thumb, arrive at least 30–45 minutes before departure if traveling on foot. As there are no vehicles on this route, boarding is significantly faster than on car ferry routes. In peak summer, however, popular sailings fill quickly and arriving early ensures you secure your preferred seats in the passenger cabin.
All ferries from Piraeus arrive at the main harbour of Hydra Town, a spectacular port lined with 18th-century stone mansions, waterfront cafés, and the island's iconic donkeys waiting to transport luggage and goods. The waterfront is compact and entirely walkable, with restaurants, shops, and most of the town's guesthouses within a few minutes on foot.
No wheeled vehicles of any kind are permitted on Hydra. This means no taxis, no buses, no rental cars, no motorcycles, and no bicycles. The only transport options on the island are walking, donkeys and mules, and water taxis for reaching beaches along the coastline.
The most practical and enjoyable way to explore Hydra Town and its immediate surroundings. The harbor front, all waterfront cafés and restaurants, the Historical Archives Museum, the Lazaros Koundouriotis Mansion, and the main shopping streets are all within easy walking distance of the ferry pier.
The island's approximately 500 working donkeys and mules are the most popular means of transporting luggage from the port to accommodation and carrying goods around the island. Donkey owners congregate at the port and will transport your bags to your hotel for an agreed fee. If your accommodation is on a steep hillside or involves many steps, arranging donkey transport for your bags in advance via your hotel is strongly recommended.
Small water taxis depart from the main harbor and provide access to beaches and coves around the island that are inaccessible on foot. Popular destinations include Vlychos Beach, Agios Nikolaos Beach, Bisti Beach, and Mandraki Bay. Water taxi prices vary by destination and should be agreed with the boatman before departure.
Please be aware that some accommodation on Hydra involves steep stairs or hillside approaches that require carrying luggage by hand or arranging donkey transport. It's always best to confirm accessibility with your accommodation before booking, particularly if you have mobility limitations or are traveling with heavy bags.
Pet owners will be pleased to know that pets are allowed on ferries from Piraeus to Hydra, and travel with pets is free of charge on most operators on this route. As this is a domestic Greek route, documentation requirements are very straightforward. However, there are some important practical considerations specific to Hydra that pet owners should understand before booking.
As both Piraeus and Hydra are within Greece and the EU, an EU pet passport is the standard required document. This document confirms your pet's identity, microchip number, and vaccination history, and is required by ferry operators on this domestic Greek route.
Proof of valid rabies vaccination must be recorded in the EU pet passport. Ensure all vaccinations are current and documented before travel.
Your pet must be microchipped in compliance with ISO standards. The microchip must have been implanted before, or on the same day as, the first rabies vaccination.
Declare your pet at the time of booking your ticket and carry all relevant health documentation for the journey. Travel with pets is free of charge with most operators on this route.
An EU pet passport is a uniform document that certifies your pet's identity, microchip number, and vaccination history, required for travel between EU member states. It is issued by a licensed veterinarian in any EU country and serves as the definitive record of your pet's health and travel eligibility on domestic and international routes.
On most Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferries, small pets may remain with their owner in the passenger cabin. Larger dogs must wear a leash and muzzle in passenger areas and may be required to remain in a certain area for the crossing. All ferry vessels in Greece are required by law to provide kennels, though given the short crossing time, most pets travel comfortably without kennel accommodation.
One important consideration specific to Hydra: there are no wheeled vehicles on the island, which means no cars or taxis to transport a large dog crate from the port to your accommodation. Larger dogs will therefore need to walk from the port to your accommodation on a leash. Please confirm your accommodation's pet policy before travel, as some guesthouses may not be easily accessible with a large animal.
Passengers with reduced mobility traveling on the Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra ferry route should contact their operator directly at the time of booking to arrange appropriate assistance. All operators on this route use high-speed passenger vessels, and while most offer some provisions for passengers with reduced mobility, the compact design of fast catamarans can present challenges. Passengers should also consider accessibility on Hydra itself before booking, as the island's terrain and vehicle-free status make it difficult for those with limited mobility.
Passengers with reduced mobility are usually given priority boarding ahead of general passengers. Please contact your operator in advance to arrange this.
Staff assistance boarding and disembarking is available upon request. This is particularly helpful at Hydra Port, where the pier and gangway configuration can vary and there is no level road surface immediately on disembarkation.
Passengers with mobility needs should request appropriate seating on the ferry at the time of booking. Window or aisle seats near the cabin entrance are typically the most accessible options on high-speed catamarans.
Please be aware that Hydra Town itself is not straightforward for passengers with reduced mobility. The entire island is cobblestoned and hilly, with no ramps, no lifts in most buildings, no level-access transport, and many accommodation options accessed via steep stone staircases.
Passengers using wheelchairs or with significant mobility limitations should research accommodation accessibility before booking a visit to Hydra, and contact their hotel directly to discuss access arrangements. The waterfront promenade is reasonably flat and walkable, but most of the town beyond it involves steep gradients.
Always notify your operator of any accessibility or special assistance requirements at the time of booking rather than at the port. You can also contact Direct Ferries customer support for guidance on accessible ferry options on the Athens (Piraeus) to Hydra route.
There are no taxis, buses, or any wheeled vehicles on Hydra. Everything you bring must be carried by hand, transported by donkey (for a fee), or left at your accommodation. Heavy rolling suitcases are difficult to transport on cobbled streets and steep hillside paths. A backpack or soft-sided bag is far more practical than a hard suitcase for this destination.
Friday afternoon departures from Piraeus and Sunday return sailings from Hydra are the busiest of the week throughout summer. Weekend sailings can also sell out quickly, especially in July and August.
With ferries departing Piraeus from 08:00 and the last return from Hydra at approximately 21:30, a day trip gives you enough time to explore the island. We suggest taking the earliest available morning ferry to maximize your time. However, an overnight or two-night stay gives you the island in the evenings and mornings, when the crowds have departed.
Some ferries from Piraeus to Hydra call at Poros before Hydra, adding 30–40 minutes to the journey. If speed matters for your day-trip schedule, choose a sailing clearly marked as direct to Hydra.
Ferries to Hydra depart from Gate E8 at Piraeus — the Saronic Gulf terminal, which is more centrally located within the port than the Cyclades gates. Arriving 30–45 minutes before departure is generally sufficient for foot passengers, though popular summer sailings warrant an earlier arrival to secure your preferred seating.
If you are staying overnight and have more than a day bag, contact your accommodation before arrival to arrange donkey transport for your luggage from the port. Many hotels on Hydra offer this as a standard service, either included or for a modest fee. Attempting to carry a large suitcase up steep cobblestone lanes without assistance is a tiring start to any stay.
Keep your passport or EU ID card and any pet documentation accessible at check-in. Although this is a domestic Greek route, an ID is required for boarding all ferries.
Blue Star Ferries, Alpha Lines, and Magic Sea Ferries offer similar prices and a comparable onboard experience. The key differences are departure time and whether the sailing is direct. Use Direct Ferries to view all options, crossing times, and live prices side by side before booking your Athens to Hydra ferry.
Hydra leans traditional in many of its businesses, and while most hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, many smaller tavernas, shops, and water taxi operators prefer cash. There are ATMs in Hydra Town near the port, but availability can be limited during peak season. Withdrawing euros before you leave Athens is the safer option.
The most beautiful beaches on Hydra are only accessible by water taxi from the main harbor. In peak summer, the water taxis at the harbor can be especially busy immediately after a ferry arrival. If beach time is a priority on a day trip, head straight to the water taxi pier when you disembark and agree on your fare and return time before too many other passengers get there first.
