Ferry connection
Is there a ferry from Heraklion to Kos?
There is no direct ferry from Heraklion to Kos. The most practical ferry connection is via Piraeus: sail Heraklion → Piraeus, then change for the Piraeus → Kos ferry. The two crossings take about 20h 15m of sailing time combined, plus the connection at Piraeus.
The legs are separate tickets and may not connect on the same day — always check operator times before booking.
Heraklion to Kos ferry connection, leg by leg
| Leg | Ferry crossing | Crossing time | Operators |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heraklion → Piraeusfrom €42 | 9h 30m | Minoan Lines, Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets |
| 2 | Piraeus → Kosfrom €46.70 | 10h 45m | Blue Star Ferries |
Change ferries at Piraeus. Sailing times are indicative and seasonal — confirm each leg with its operator.
About Heraklion and Kos
Heraklion
Heraklion is the vibrant capital of Crete, offering a perfect blend of ancient Minoan history, bustling city life, and stunning coastal views. Arriving by ferry is the most scenic and traditional way to experience the island, connecting you seamlessly to the Aegean Sea and neighboring islands like Anafi.
Heraklion travel guideKos
Kos is a captivating Dodecanese island renowned for its pristine beaches, ancient Greek ruins, and vibrant harbor life. Arriving by ferry offers a seamless and scenic introduction to the island, dropping you right in the heart of Kos Town with easy onward connections to nearby destinations like Rhodes, Nisyros, and even Bodrum.
Kos travel guideFrequently asked questions
Is there a direct ferry from Heraklion to Kos?
No. There is currently no direct, single-vessel ferry between Heraklion and Kos. You can still make the journey by ferry with one change, via Piraeus.
How do you get from Heraklion to Kos by ferry?
Take the Heraklion → Piraeus ferry, then change at Piraeus for the Piraeus → Kos ferry. The two crossings total about 20h 15m of sailing time. They are separate tickets, so leave enough time to connect.
Do I need to change ferries between Heraklion and Kos?
Yes. Because there is no through-service, you change ferries at Piraeus. Check that the arriving and departing sailings line up on your travel date.
How long does the Heraklion to Kos ferry journey take?
About 20h 15m of sailing time in total, plus the wait for your connection at Piraeus. Exact times vary by season and operator.
Where do you change ferries between Heraklion and Kos?
The most practical change point is Piraeus. From Piraeus, onward ferries continue to Kos.
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Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub.