Iraklia Ferries

Unlock your adventure to Greece at the incredible port of Iraklia! It's your essential gateway to the stunning nearby islands. Imagine seamless connections and breath-taking scenic journeys – that's what awaits you.

As a bustling hub for both passengers and freight, Iraklia boasts an impressive 21 ferry routes operated by 5 top-tier ferry companies. Get ready for a convenient sailing experience from Iraklia, with schedules perfectly tailored to the seasons, ensuring you always find your ideal departure, no matter the demand, weather, or tourism buzz. Your unforgettable escape begins here!

Iraklia offers wonderful connections to popular routes like Naxos - Iraklia, Piraeus - Iraklia, Koufonissi - Iraklia. You can customize your trip by choosing between a swift high-speed ferry to get there in a flash or a classic vessel for a more scenic, relaxing journey. From quick local hops to leisurely overnight voyages, your island adventure starts here.

Getting to your destination is a breeze with several excellent ferry operators departing regularly from Iraklia. You'll find companies like Small Cyclades Lines, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets ready to whisk you away.

Each offers a variety of onboard amenities to make your journey pleasant, from comfortable seating and delicious food and drink options to private cabins and even vehicle transport.

With a range of ticket options available depending on the company and vessel, there's something to suit everyone, whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a business trip.

Whether you're dreaming of an exhilarating island-hopping escape, making your way back to the comfort of home, or embarking on a brand-new journey, your perfect voyage begins right here with Iraklia.

Iraklia is accessible primarily by ferry services operating from Athens' port of Piraeus, with journeys taking approximately 8-9 hours depending on the vessel and route. More frequent connections are available from Naxos (about 1.5 hours) and nearby Amorgos. The island's main settlement of Agios Georgios houses the ferry port, where all vessels dock. If traveling from other Cycladic islands, regular ferry services connect Iraklia to Naxos, Paros, and Ios, making island-hopping convenient. For those arriving at the port, the village center is just a short walk away, with no need for additional transportation.

Nestled in the heart of the Lesser Cyclades, Iraklia offers an authentic Greek island experience far from the tourist crowds. This tiny island, with fewer than 150 permanent residents, boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, rugged hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere that instantly soothes the soul. As a ferry destination, Iraklia serves as a perfect escape for travelers seeking the untouched beauty of the Aegean while still being connected to the more famous Cycladic islands.

The ideal time to visit Iraklia falls between May and October when the weather is warm and ferry connections are most frequent. July and August bring the warmest temperatures (averaging 25-30°C) and slightly more visitors, though even in peak season, Iraklia remains refreshingly uncrowded. June and September offer perfect conditions with pleasant temperatures and virtually empty beaches. The annual Fisherman's Festival in mid-August provides a rare opportunity to experience local culture and traditional celebrations. Winter months see reduced ferry services and many businesses close, making off-season visits challenging but rewarding for those seeking complete solitude.

Iraklia serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the enchanting Small Cyclades. Schinoussa, just 15 minutes away by ferry, offers golden beaches and traditional tavernas serving fresh seafood. Koufonisia, reachable in about 30 minutes, delights visitors with its turquoise waters and charming main town. Donoussa, approximately 45 minutes by ferry, rewards travelers with dramatic landscapes and secluded coves perfect for swimming. For those seeking more developed destinations, larger islands like Naxos and Amorgos are within an hour's journey, making Iraklia an ideal base for a diverse island-hopping adventure through some of the Aegean's most authentic destinations.

Iraklia's unhurried pace invites visitors to embrace authentic Greek island experiences. Explore the magnificent Cave of Agios Ioannis with its impressive stalactites and religious significance, accessible via a scenic 20-minute hike. The island's network of walking paths connects charming villages and leads to secluded beaches like Livadi and Alimia, where you might be the only visitor. Sample traditional Cycladic cuisine at family-run tavernas in Agios Georgios, where locally-caught fish, goat cheese, and honey feature prominently. Don't miss Panagia settlement with its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed church offering panoramic views across the Aegean, perfect for photographers and sunset enthusiasts.

Despite its small size, Iraklia holds fascinating secrets beneath its unassuming surface. The island is home to one of the largest caves in the Cyclades, where according to local legend, a dragon once lived, giving the cave its alternative name, 'Dragon's Lair.' During World War II, a German submarine was reportedly sunk near Iraklia's shores, creating an underwater attraction for adventurous divers today. The island was once known as 'Heraklia,' named after the mythological hero Hercules who, according to local tales, visited the island during his legendary twelve labors. Iraklia also boasts some of the clearest night skies in Europe, with almost zero light pollution, making it a paradise for stargazers.