Ferry to Zakynthos (Zante)

Compare all available ferry crossings and secure the best deals for your journey. At Openferry, we make it easy to find and book ferry tickets to and from Zakynthos (Zante) in just a few clicks.

Because ferry travel can be seasonal, frequencies and departure times often change throughout the year. We recommend using our live search to see the most accurate schedules and information for your travel dates including:

Popular Connections: The port of Zakynthos (Zante) connects to several high-traffic destinations, including Kyllini - Zakynthos (Zante).

Top-Tier Operators: Regular services to and from Zakynthos (Zante) are provided by leading carriers like Levante Ferries, Lefkada Palace, Kerkyra Lines.

Amenities vary depending on the specific vessel and operator, but most ferries serving Zakynthos (Zante) feature:

Comfortable Seating: Options ranging from standard lounges to premium airplane-style seats.

Dining & Leisure: Onboard cafés and restaurants serving food and drinks.

Travel Essentials: Restroom facilities and, on longer routes, private cabins for added privacy.

Vehicle Transport: Most sailings accommodate cars, motorbikes, and campervans, allowing you to take your own transport to Zakynthos (Zante).

Zakynthos (Zante) is currently served by 2 ferry routes operated by 4 ferry operators including Levante Ferries, Lefkada Palace, Kerkyra Lines.

Zakynthos is accessible primarily via ferry connections from mainland Greece, with regular services operating from the port of Killini on the Peloponnese peninsula, taking approximately 1-1.5 hours. Travelers can reach Killini by car or bus from Athens (about 3.5 hours) or Patras (about 1 hour). For international visitors, Zakynthos has its own airport with direct seasonal flights from many European cities, after which a short taxi or bus ride will take you to the port area. If arriving by car to take the ferry, ample parking is available near the port facilities, though arriving early during peak season is recommended.

Zakynthos, often called Zante, stands as one of Greece's most visually stunning islands with its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This Ionian treasure blends natural beauty with vibrant Greek culture, creating an irresistible destination for ferry travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Visitors arriving by sea are greeted by the island's verdant landscapes, giving Zakynthos its nickname 'The Flower of the East.'

Zakynthos enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild, rainy winters. The prime tourist season runs from May through October, with July and August bringing the warmest temperatures, liveliest atmosphere, and most frequent ferry connections. For those seeking a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, late May to early July or September offers warm seas and more breathing room at major attractions like Navagio Beach. The island comes alive during local festivals, particularly the feast of St. Dionysios on August 24th and December 17th, offering authentic cultural experiences. Winter visits (November-April) offer a quieter island experience, though with reduced ferry schedules and many seasonal businesses closed.

Zakynthos serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the magnificent Ionian Islands by ferry. Kefalonia, the largest of the island group, lies just a short 1-hour ferry ride away and offers dramatic landscapes including the famous Myrtos Beach and Melissani Cave. Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus, can be reached via Kefalonia and rewards visitors with authentic Greek village life and secluded beaches. For those seeking longer journeys, ferries connect to Corfu (about 5-6 hours via mainland transfers), with its UNESCO-listed Old Town and Venetian fortresses. The mainland port of Killini also provides access to the historic Peloponnese region with its ancient sites and charming coastal towns.

Zakynthos offers an array of memorable activities centered around its natural wonders and cultural heritage. The iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), accessible only by boat, presents the perfect opportunity for a day cruise along the island's stunning Blue Caves with their reflecting azure waters. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the National Marine Park in the southern part of the island, home to endangered loggerhead sea turtles that nest on Gerakas Beach. The island's culinary scene showcases local specialties including fresh seafood, ladotyri cheese, and the sweet Mandolato nougat, best enjoyed in tavernas throughout Zakynthos Town. For an authentic slice of island life, wander through the narrow streets of Bochali village, offering panoramic views over the harbor and Venetian-influenced architecture.

Zakynthos harbors fascinating stories beneath its picturesque surface, including its remarkable resilience after a devastating 1953 earthquake that destroyed nearly all historical buildings except for a single Venetian fortress. The island's famous Shipwreck Beach features the remains of the MV Panagiotis, a suspected smuggling vessel that ran aground in 1980 while allegedly transporting contraband cigarettes. Zakynthos has a unique musical heritage as the birthplace of the kantádes, a type of romantic serenade performed by male choirs that continues to influence local cultural expressions. Despite being a popular tourist destination today, the island once served as an important naval base for the Venetian Republic for nearly 300 years, shaping much of its architectural character.