Athens (Piraeus) - Santorini (Thira)
Ferries to Cyclades Islands
Athens (Piraeus) - Santorini (Thira)
Ferries to Cyclades Islands
Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) are operated by 3 ferry companies, including Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets. The crossing typically takes around 6 hours 10 minutes. There are currently 40 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $54. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Santorini (Thira) today.
The Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) ferry is a year-round ferry service spanning approximately 137.1 nautical miles across the Aegean Sea, connecting Athens with the iconic island of Santorini. This route is served by 3 operators providing 40 weekly sailings, with up to 6 daily sailings in peak periods. The ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) is one of the most popular routes in Greece, connecting Athens directly to Santorini for both tourists and island residents alike.
There are currently 3 ferry operators that provide ferries from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira).
SeaJets operate high-speed catamaran services on the Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) route with up to 22 weekly sailings and a sailing time of approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes, making them the fastest operator on this route.
Blue Star Ferries provide up to 13 weekly sailings throughout the year on large conventional vessels with a sailing time of around 7 hours and 45 minutes, offering the widest range of cabin and seating accommodation.
Cyclades Fast Ferries offer around 3 weekly sailings with a crossing time of approximately 10–11 hours on conventional ferries, providing a more budget-friendly option for travelers with vehicles.
Please note that SeaJets typically offer the fastest ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira), though Blue Star Ferries offer the most comprehensive onboard facilities and accommodation options including cabins.
Most ferries on this route allow vehicles and pets. Cabin accommodation is available with Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets, and is strongly recommended for overnight sailings on the Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) ferry.
The Piraeus to Santorini crossing is one of the most frequented ferry routes in the Greek islands, with departure windows spanning from the early hours of the morning to late at night. The first ferry departs at 02:00 and the last ferry departs at 23:59, giving travelers significant flexibility when planning their Athens to Santorini ferry schedule.
Departure windows typically span from around 02:00 for early overnight departures to late evening sailings departing at around 23:59. There are overnight ferries available on this route. The first overnight ferry departs at approximately 14:15 and arrives at around 01:45, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to save on a night's accommodation in Athens or arrive in Santorini ready for an early start.
Please keep in mind that timetables vary significantly by season. In low season, around 2 daily sailings are typically available, whereas in high season between June and September, operators can provide up to 6 sailings per day. It is highly recommended that you book in advance to secure availability and the best prices for the Athens to Santorini ferry, especially during July and August.
Ferry crossings from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) typically range from 5 hours with SeaJets to 11 hours 30 minutes with Cyclades Fast Ferries, depending on the weather conditions and vessel type. The choice between a high-speed catamaran and a conventional ferry is the single biggest factor affecting how long the ferry from Piraeus to Santorini takes.
The fastest services, operated by high-speed catamarans, complete the crossing in around 5 hours. Conventional car ferries such as Blue Star Ferries take approximately 7–8 hours, while slower conventional operators can take up to 11 hours and 30 minutes. This route often passes near other Cycladic islands including Paros and Naxos, making for a particularly scenic journey.
For travelers who are not pressed for time, the slower conventional ferries offer the advantage of more spacious onboard facilities, open-air decks, and lower fares. High-speed catamarans are the better choice if you want to maximize your time on the island and don't mind paying a premium for the faster service.
The Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) ferry price varies by operator, season, and passenger type. The cheapest tickets start from around $55, with average fares typically costing $225.31 depending on the time of year. If you are looking for a cheap ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira), traveling outside the peak summer months of July and August offers the best value.
For a foot passenger, the average one-way fare is between $54.81 and $220.39. The Piraeus to Santorini car ferry cost is significantly higher so expect to pay around $646.30 for one adult with a vehicle in standard season. Motorcycles are usually somewhat cheaper, costing around $388.30.
Passengers holding tickets for routes from Italy or Greece with Anek Superfast receive a 30% discount on onward tickets to the Cyclades with Blue Star Ferries. Many operators also offer reduced fares to loyalty club members — it is worth registering before booking if you plan to travel frequently.
Group bookings of 3 or more passengers may qualify for reduced rates on select operators. Children between the ages of 5 and 10 are eligible for a 50% discount on most sailings, and children from 0 to 5 years of age travel for free, though they will not be allocated an individual seat or accommodation.
Operators periodically offer promotional offers and discounts, particularly ahead of peak summer season. Booking early is the most reliable way to find cheap Piraeus to Santorini ferry tickets. You can also find great offers on accommodation in Santorini by visiting our accommodation page.
| Season | From price |
|---|---|
| Autumn (Sep - Nov) | $55 |
| Spring (Mar - May) | $55 |
| Summer (Jun - Aug) | $54 |
*Based on a one-way trip with one adult
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $55 |
| Car | $320 |
| Cabin | $55 |
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| Athens (Piraeus) - Santorini (Thira) Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $220 | |
| Average Price with Car | $646 | |
| Average Price with Motorcycle | $388 | |
| Average Cabin Price | $283 | |
| Athens (Piraeus) - Santorini (Thira) Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Athens |
| Destination | Cyclades Islands |
| No. of Operators | 3 |
| Operators | Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets |
| Average Price | $225 |
| Average Pet Price | $394 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 6 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 40 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 6 h 10 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 5 h |
| First Ferry | 07:00 |
| Last Ferry | 23:00 |
| Distance | 137 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 June 2026.
The Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) ferry offers a wide range of onboard accommodation and facilities depending on which operator and vessel you travel with. Unlike shorter island hops, the crossing time of 5 hours to 11 hours 30 minutes means that comfort onboard is a genuine consideration, particularly for overnight sailings or travelers who experience seasickness on the Aegean.
The most budget-friendly option, available across most operators. A great option for daytime crossings on the faster high-speed services where the journey takes under 6 hours.
Standard seating with access to open-air decks. Available on conventional ferries such as Blue Star Ferries, these are a comfortable mid-tier option for daytime travelers who want space to move around.
Windowless private cabins suitable for sleeping on overnight crossings. More affordable than outside cabins and a practical alternative to booking a hotel in Athens. Available on Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets.
Private cabins with a porthole or window, offering natural light and sea views. The premium cabin option on this route is strongly recommended for overnight Piraeus to Santorini ferry sailings for both comfort and seasickness mitigation.
Available on SeaJets and Blue Star Ferries, offering premium seating with enhanced comfort and service. Ideal for travelers who want a more relaxed high-speed crossing.
Full restaurant and café facilities are available on Blue Star Ferries' conventional vessels, serving hot meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the crossing.
Available on most high-speed ferries, offering lighter refreshments for the faster crossing.
Conventional ferries feature open upper decks with expansive views across the Aegean Sea and passing Cycladic islands.
Car ferry operators load vehicles below deck. Passengers leave vehicles during the crossing and move to the passenger cabin or open deck areas.
Larger Blue Star Ferries vessels have onboard shops and entertainment areas, making them a good choice for families traveling with young children.
Located approximately 10 km southwest of central Athens, Piraeus is the largest port in Europe, and the main departure point for ferries to the Greek islands. Ferries to Santorini depart from Gate E1 at the far end of the port. Please allow yourself enough time to locate your gate, as the port is extensive, with 12 numbered gates spread across a large area.
The Green Line (Line 1) connects Piraeus station directly to central Athens (Monastiraki, Omonia) in approximately 30 minutes. The station is a 10–15-minute walk from Gate E1.
Taxis from Athens city center cost approximately $23–$35. From Athens Airport, expect to pay $58–$70. Pre-booking a private transfer is recommended during peak season.
Multiple bus routes connect central Athens with the port, though the metro is often the faster and more reliable transport option.
Boarding: As a general rule of thumb, it's best to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before departure if traveling on foot and approximately 90 minutes when traveling with a vehicle to allow sufficient time for check-in, gate location, and boarding procedures. During July and August, allow additional time for queues.
All conventional ferries and most high-speed services arrive at Athinios Port, located approximately 8 km south of Fira, the island's capital. The port sits at the base of dramatic volcanic cliffs and is the primary entry point to Santorini for ferry travelers. Please note that some smaller SeaJets services may use the Old Port at Skala Fira. It's always best to confirm your arrival terminal on your booking confirmation.
KTEL Santorini buses operate frequently from Athinios Port to Fira in approximately 20 minutes, also calling at Oia, Perissa, Kamari, and other main villages.
Taxis are readily available outside the terminal but are limited in number. Pre-booking a private transfer is strongly recommended during peak summer months, as queues for taxis at Athinios can be very long after large ferry arrivals.
Several hire companies operate near the port and in Fira if you plan to explore the island independently.
Please be aware that ferry operators may use different terminals or docking points within Santorini. It is very important to confirm your exact arrival location at the time of booking to avoid confusion upon arrival.
Pet owners will be pleased to know that pets are allowed on ferries from Piraeus to Santorini with Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets. However, requirements and onboard pet policies differ by operator, and failure to have the correct paperwork can result in being refused boarding.
Since both ports are within 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 domestic Greek routes.
Proof of valid rabies vaccination must be recorded in the EU pet passport. Ensure vaccinations are current 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.
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 and on most Greek ferry operators. It is granted by a licensed veterinarian in any EU country and serves as the definitive record of your pet's health and travel eligibility.
On most Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) ferries, small pets are permitted in the passenger cabin. Larger dogs are typically required to remain in vehicles on car deck sailings or may be accommodated in designated pet areas on Blue Star Ferries vessels. As the crossing can take up to 11 hours on conventional services, ensuring your pet is comfortable for the duration is important. Please confirm the operator's specific pet policy at the time of booking as conditions vary by vessel and operator.
Passengers with reduced mobility traveling on the Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) ferry route should contact their operator directly at the time of booking to arrange appropriate assistance. The large conventional ferries operated by Blue Star Ferries on this route are generally well-equipped for passengers with mobility requirements, while high-speed catamarans may present more limited accessibility due to their design.
Blue Star Ferries vessels feature adapted cabins with wider doorways and grab rails, suitable for wheelchair users and passengers with reduced mobility. These should be requested and confirmed at the time of booking.
Lifts and ramp access to public deck areas are available on larger conventional ferries. High-speed catamarans may have more limited access between decks.
Passengers with reduced mobility are usually given priority boarding ahead of other passengers. Contact your operator in advance to arrange this.
Staff assistance boarding and disembarking is available upon request, which is especially important since Athinios Port involves a stepped gangway on some berths.
Passengers traveling with a car who have mobility needs may, in some cases, remain closer to their vehicle during the crossing, though this option must be confirmed with your operator beforehand.
It's best to notify your operator of any accessibility or special assistance requirements at the time of booking rather than at the port. Provisions vary by vessel and advance notice ensures the right arrangements are in place. You can also contact Direct Ferries customer support for guidance on accessible ferry options on the Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Thira) route.
Reserve tickets at least 2–3 months in advance for any sailings between June and September. The Piraeus to Santorini ferry is one of the busiest routes in Greece and morning high-speed departures in particular sell out fast during peak season.
Plan to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before departure if traveling on foot and approximately 90 minutes when traveling with a vehicle. We also suggest allowing yourself extra time to locate your gate at Piraeus.
Overnight sailings departing in the afternoon arrive in Santorini in the early hours of the morning, saving a night's accommodation in Athens. Book a cabin for comfort and to mitigate seasickness on the longer conventional overnight crossing.
Cabins are strongly recommended for overnight Piraeus to Santorini ferry sailings. Inside cabins are the more affordable option, while outside cabins with a porthole are worth the premium for the comfort and light on longer crossings.
Keep your passport or ID card, pet documentation, and any discount eligibility proof readily accessible at check-in. EU residents should carry their EU ID card or passport for boarding.
High-speed and conventional ferries offer very different experiences and prices on this route. Use Direct Ferries to view all operators, crossing times, and live prices side by side before booking your Athens to Santorini ferry.
The Aegean Sea can be choppy, particularly outside the summer months. High-speed catamarans feel the motion more acutely than larger conventional ferries. If you're prone to motion sickness, consider choosing a conventional ferry or sitting centrally and toward the lower decks.
Ferries to Santorini arrive at Athinios Port, which is located approximately 8 km from Fira. Some smaller services may use the Old Port — always confirm your arrival terminal on your booking confirmation or ticket.
Arrange a taxi or confirm KTEL bus times in advance for your arrival at Athinios Port. Taxis are limited in Santorini and can be very difficult to find after large ferry arrivals in peak season.
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