Santorini (Thira) - Athens (Piraeus)
Ferries to Athens
Santorini (Thira) - Athens (Piraeus)
Ferries to Athens
The Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry route is provided by 3 ferry companies. The ferry crossing from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) is approximately 6 hours on most ferries servicing this route. Ferries between Santorini (Thira) and Athens (Piraeus) cost from as little as $54 but vary based on season, availability and whether you’re going by foot or by car. Prices exclude any service fees. Ferry timetables change seasonally. Use our Deal Finder to get live pricing and availability for ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus).
Last Updated: 10/1/2026
The ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) is a relaxed way back from the whitewashed Cyclades to the Greek mainland, across the deep blue Aegean, reaching Athens (Piraeus) in around 6 hours — or as little as 5 hours on the quicker sailings.
The crossing is part of the trip — settle in on deck, take in the sea air, and watch the islands slip into the distance on the way to Athens (Piraeus). Bring your car and extra luggage, or travel as a foot passenger, ready to continue once you reach Athens (Piraeus).
Tip: Sailings from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) are busiest in summer, so booking ahead helps you lock in your preferred departure — handy if you have an onward connection from Athens.
Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry prices typically range from $54 to $348. The average ferry price from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) is around $144. The cheapest fares usually start from $54. The average foot passenger ticket costs $137. The average price when traveling with a car is $349.
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 October 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry cost approximately $54. Traveling outside the busy July and August peak is one of the easiest ways to find a lower fare.
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 graduates can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To take advantage of the discount, register with our partner Student Beans to confirm your student or graduate status. You'll then receive a discount code to enter during payment.
Resident discounts are available on some routes. If they apply to the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry, a residents checkbox will appear above the search button when you enter your travel details. You'll need to show valid proof of residency at check-in — if you can't, the ferry company may ask you to pay the difference for a non-discounted ticket. Everyone on the booking must qualify for the discount; if not, it's best to book separately.
There are around 24 weekly sailings from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus). Frequencies are usually at their highest across the summer season and ease off in winter.
Blue Star Ferries provide 1 sailing daily, 9 sailings weekly. Cyclades Fast Ferries provide 1 sailing daily, 3 sailings weekly. SeaJets provide 3 sailings daily, 15 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.
The first ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) usually departs at around 03:00, with the last sailing leaving Santorini (Thira) Port at approximately 15:45. The crossing covers roughly 137.1 nautical miles and takes around 6 hours on average.
Due to the longer crossing time, ferries between Santorini (Thira) and Athens (Piraeus) are generally better suited to a longer stay than a day trip. For ideas on things to do in Athens (Piraeus), visit our blog.
Fast passenger services such as hydrofoils and catamarans run alongside the conventional ferries on many Greek routes. The fastest ferry from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) is with SeaJets in 5 hours.
The fastest ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) usually cost around $144.
Yes, cars are carried on ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) with Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets. On many Greek island routes, cars travel on the conventional ferries rather than the fast catamarans, so choose a standard sailing if you're bringing a vehicle. Use our Deal Finder to compare live car-ferry prices.
Yes, you can take a campervan or caravan on the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry, for an average of around $646. As with cars, campervans travel on the conventional ferries, so book a standard sailing and check your vehicle's height and length against the operator's limits.
Bicycles aren't currently accepted on ferries sailing between Santorini (Thira) and Athens (Piraeus).
Yes, foot passengers are welcome from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) with Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets. Traveling on foot is the most common way to island-hop around the Greek islands, particularly on the fast catamarans.
Yes, cabins can be booked from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) with Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets, ranging from $55 to $880, with an average of $247. Cabins are most common on the longer overnight crossings; the shorter daytime hops are usually seat-only.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Santorini (Thira) and Athens (Piraeus) depends on the operator and the length of the crossing. Enter your travel details in our Deal Finder to see whether an overnight option is available, alongside daytime alternatives. Overnight crossings can take a little longer than the daytime services.
Yes, pets are welcome on ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) with Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets. The average price for traveling with a pet is around $278. Greek ferries are generally pet-friendly, though the rules vary by vessel.
When traveling with your pet, you'll usually need:
Where your pet stays depends on the operator and vessel — some ferries have dedicated pet areas or pet-friendly cabins, while on others, pets stay with you in designated spots. Our Deal Finder shows the options for your crossing.
Greek ferries are relaxed about luggage compared with airlines, and most fares let you bring what you can comfortably carry on board, with racks near the entrances. It's still worth checking your operator's policy for larger or extra items, particularly on the fast passenger services where space is tighter. Enter your travel details into our Deal Finder to see the options on the Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry. Our ferry facilities guide explains what's typically on board.
The Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) ferry is a domestic crossing within Greece, so there's no immigration check for the sailing itself — one of the things that makes island-hopping around the Greek islands so easy. If you're traveling in Greece from abroad, you'll need a valid passport, and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and Greece's entry rules. As Greece is part of the EU and the Schengen Area, the exact requirements depend on where you're traveling from.
It's a good idea to keep photo ID handy for check-in, as you may be asked to show it when collecting tickets or boarding. To keep things quick, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide before you sail.
Booking your Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) 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 keep booking smooth, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle details.
The earlier you book ferries from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus), the better — especially for July and August, when the Greek islands are at their busiest and popular sailings fill up well in advance. Booking ahead secures lower prices and a wider choice of departure times, seating and cabins. Outside the summer peak, there's more availability, though schedules thin out over winter.
If no sailings from Santorini (Thira) to Athens (Piraeus) appear on your chosen date, it may come down to the season — many Greek routes run more often in summer and scale back in winter — or to a temporary timetable change. Occasionally, rough weather can disrupt the faster passenger services, which are more weather-sensitive than the larger conventional ferries. We recommend checking alternative dates, nearby routes, or a conventional sailing if a fast ferry isn't running.
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, and our port facilities guide covers what to expect at the port. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow enough time for ticket collection and check-in, particularly during the busy summer season.
At check-in, you'll need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If you're traveling with a pet, relevant documentation such as vaccination records may also be required.
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $55 |
| Car | $214 |
| Cabin | $55 |
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| Santorini (Thira) - Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $137 | |
| Average Price with Car | $349 | |
| Average Price with Motorcycle | $255 | |
| Average Cabin Price | $247 | |
| Santorini (Thira) - Athens (Piraeus) Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Cyclades Islands |
| Destination | Athens |
| No. of Operators | 3 |
| Operators | Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries & SeaJets |
| Average Price | $144 |
| Average Pet Price | $278 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 4 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 24 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 6 h |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 5 h |
| First Ferry | 03:00 |
| Last Ferry | 15:45 |
| Distance | 137 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 October 2026.
The best time to book sailings from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus is typically in advance, especially during the peak summer season. It is recommended to book your tickets at least a few weeks prior to your desired departure date to secure your spot on the ferry. Additionally, booking during weekdays or off-peak times may also help you find better deals and availability.
The baggage allowance on the ferry from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus may vary depending on the ferry company you choose. It is best to check with the specific ferry company you plan to travel with for their baggage allowance policies.
Yes, most ferries operating from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus have accessibility for disabled passengers. These ferries typically have ramps, elevators, and designated spaces for passengers with disabilities. It is recommended to contact us in advance to inquire about specific accommodations and to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
The time it takes to disembark from the ferry from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus can vary depending on the specific ferry company and schedule. On average, the disembarkation process usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour. However, it's always a good idea to check with the ferry company for more accurate information on disembarkation times.
There may be no sailings from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus due to high demand, maintenance, weather conditions, or schedule changes. Contact us for updated timetables.
When travelling with your pet on Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets, you will need to make sure you have the following:
Your pet will stay in the designated pet area on the ferry operated by Blue Star Ferries & SeaJets. Make sure to check the specific conditions and regulations for traveling with pets on this route.
Yes, both Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets allow passengers to travel with guide or assistance dogs. However, it is recommended to contact us in advance to inform them about your travel plans with your dog so they can make the necessary arrangements for a comfortable journey.
For the ferry route from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus operated by Anek Lines, Blue Star Ferries, Sea Speed Ferries, SeaJets, and Zante Ferries, passengers can expect the following accommodation and seating options:
Each ferry operator may have slightly different offerings in terms of accommodation and seating options, so it's recommended to check with the specific company for more details.
Yes, you can take your campervan on the ferry from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus. The average price for campers is $528.22, with a minimum of $351.06.
The ferry from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus provides a scenic and convenient way to travel between these two popular destinations. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the picturesque islands along the way. The journey typically takes around 8-9 hours, depending on the ferry company and the weather conditions. Some ferries offer amenities such as onboard restaurants, cafes, and lounges for passengers to relax and enjoy the voyage. Keep in mind that seas can be rough at times, so it's a good idea to come prepared with motion sickness medication if needed. Overall, the ferry ride from Thira to Piraeus offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the Greek islands.
Passengers collecting ferry tickets at Thira (Santorini) must check in with the ferry operator upon arrival and may receive a new boarding pass. It is essential to present your confirmation email, identification, and any other required documents at the ticket booth, which is usually located near the ferry terminal. To avoid delays, it is recommended to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before departure time. For a smooth check-in process, make sure to have your documents ready, be prepared to pay any additional fees if needed, and follow the instructions given by the ferry staff. Additionally, it is advisable to double-check the departure time and gate number to ensure a hassle-free boarding experience.
To get to Thira (Santorini) Port, head towards Athinios Ferry Port located at Ormos Athinios 847 00, Greece. From Thira town, follow the main road towards the port, which is well-signposted. If you are coming from other parts of the island, you can take a taxi directly to the port. There are also local buses that run from various parts of the island to the port, with bus numbers varying depending on the route. If you are driving, follow the main road towards the port and look out for signs directing you to Athinios Ferry Port. Once you arrive at the port, there are taxi stands available for your convenience. For travelers with reduced mobility, the port is accessible with ramps and designated parking spaces. Nearby landmarks such as the Caldera cliffs and the Aegean Sea can help you navigate your way to the port.
On board the ferry, passengers have access to a variety of facilities to enhance their travel experience. There are multiple dining options available, including a cafeteria serving hot meals, a snack bar for quick bites, and a sit-down restaurant for a more formal dining experience. The seating areas on the ferry cater to different preferences, with options ranging from comfortable lounge chairs to private cabins for those seeking more privacy. Passengers can also enjoy shopping at the onboard shops, which offer a selection of souvenirs, snacks, and travel essentials. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, premium lounges with Wi-Fi and complimentary refreshments are available. Families traveling with children will appreciate the child-friendly zones, equipped with games, toys, and activities to keep young passengers entertained. Additionally, the ferry offers cabins for overnight journeys, ensuring passengers can rest and relax during their trip. Accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas make the ferry accessible to all passengers. Overall, these facilities contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for passengers of all ages.
Upon arriving in Piraeus, travelers can expect to find parking options available near the port area. Taxis are readily available for transport to various destinations, and there are nearby train stations for those looking to explore the city further. Taxis can be found outside the main entrance of the port, while train stations are located within walking distance. When driving in Piraeus, be mindful of the local speed limits and traffic regulations. Keep in mind that there may be toll roads on certain routes, so it's important to have local currency on hand for payment. Drive safely and enjoy your time in Piraeus!
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