Find and book ferry tickets from Heraclio to Santorini (Thira)

Sailing from Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) connects the vibrant capital of Crete with one of the most iconic islands in the Aegean. Departing from Heraklion, a city shaped by Minoan history and lively waterfront cafés, you leave behind Venetian fortifications and bustling markets before heading north across open sea. As Santorini comes into view, dramatic volcanic cliffs rise from the water, crowned by whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. In Thira, narrow lanes, panoramic caldera views and a thriving dining scene showcase the island’s distinctive character, where traditional Cycladic charm meets contemporary Greek cuisine and striking natural landscapes.
Travelling by ferry from Heraklion to Santorini offers a convenient and flexible way to journey between Crete and the Cyclades. With regular sailings and the option to bring your own luggage with ease, the crossing fits smoothly into your island-hopping plans. On board, there’s time to relax and enjoy sweeping views of the Aegean before arriving directly into Santorini’s port. The voyage becomes part of the experience – scenic, comfortable and an inspiring introduction to exploring Thira and its unforgettable surroundings.
Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) Ferry Schedule
Stay ahead of your travel plans with the latest timetable information. While frequencies can shift based on the season, the general schedule is as follows:
First Sailing: The first ferry typically departs Heraklion at approximately 00:00.
Last Sailing: The final departure of the day usually sets sail at around 23:45(-1).
If no direct sailings are currently available for your chosen dates, please check our Alternative Routes section below to find the next best connection to your destination.
Data last updated 2026
Ticket Prices & Booking Tips
Fares for the Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) ferry are dynamic. Booking in advance is the single most effective way to secure the lowest price.
Price Range: Recent averages show tickets priced between €9 and €145.
Typical Fare: Most travelers pay an average of €113.
Best Value: If possible, consider traveling during mid-week or off-peak hours and avoid last-minute bookings at the port.
Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) Ferry Timetable
Ferries from Heraclio to Santorini (Thira)
Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) Ferry - FAQs
The crossing time is typically around 2h 5m. Depending on the operator you choose and the weather conditions, this may fluctuate slightly. For real-time durations on your travel date, use our live search tool.
Prices vary based on season, vehicle type, and booking lead time. Averages range from €9 to €145. Please note that traveling with a vehicle (car, motorcycle, or campervan) will incur additional costs compared to foot passenger fares.
Several operators run services, including Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets. Together, they offer up to 3 sailings every day, giving you maximum flexibility for your departure.
You can book ferry tickets quickly and securely via Openferry. Our platform compares live prices and schedules across all operators, allowing you to secure an instant e-ticket without the hassle of port queues.
Most ferries on the Heraklion to Santorini (Thira) route welcome foot passengers. Availability can change by season, so we recommend confirming and booking your spot in advance.
In most cases, yes. Vehicle spaces are limited and often sell out during peak travel periods, so early reservation is highly recommended.
Some operators are pet-friendly. You may be required to keep your pet in your vehicle or a designated kennel area. Ensure you have a valid pet passport or any required health documentation ready for check-in.