Greece
Piraeus to Heraklion Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Piraeus
Attica
Arrives
Heraklion
Crete
Minoan LinesAt a glance
The Piraeus to Heraklion ferry takes about 9h 15m–9h 30m, with 2 listed sailings between 09:30 and 21:00. It is operated by Minoan Lines. Fares start from €42.
- First sailing
- 09:30
- Last sailing
- 21:00
- Sailings listed
- 2
- Crossing
- from 9h 15m
Piraeus to Heraklion ferry timetable
| Departs | Arrives | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:30 | 18:45 | 9h 15m | Minoan LinesFESTOS PALACE | Sun |
| 21:00 | 06:30 | 9h 30m | Minoan LinesKNOSSOS PALACE | Daily |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Piraeus – Heraklion crossing
The Piraeus to Heraklion ferry route offers a domestic connection within Greece, linking the port of Piraeus on the mainland with Heraklion, the capital of Crete. This popular route serves both residents and tourists looking to explore the largest of the Greek islands.
Crossing times on this route typically vary, with the fastest recorded journey taking approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes. Active sailings generally range from 7 hours 50 minutes to 10 hours, accommodating different travel preferences and vessel types. There are 8 active sailings listed daily, providing ample choice for travellers. The first ferry usually departs Piraeus at 09:00, with the last sailing of the day scheduled for 21:00.
Piraeus to Heraklion Ferry Operators & Vessels
Several reputable ferry operators serve the Piraeus to Heraklion route, including Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, Minoan Lines, and SeaJets. These companies deploy a range of vessels to ensure comfortable and efficient crossings. Notable ships on this route include the Knossos Palace, Nissos Rodos, and the high-speed World Champion Jet.
As this is a domestic Greek route, passengers do not need to worry about international border controls. For those planning further island hopping from Crete, connections like the Heraklion to Anafi ferry are available. To find current prices and book your journey, it is recommended to check directly with the individual ferry operators.
Your destination
About Heraklion
Crete has two ferry doors and they are 150 kilometres apart. Choosing the wrong one does not cost you a ferry — it costs you a day of driving at the far end. Heraklion is the busier of the two, and it is the only one from which you can reach the Cyclades by sea, which for a lot of itineraries settles the question before price does.
Full Heraklion travel guideVehicles, pets & onboard
- Multi-leg trip search
- Web check-in
- BonusClub loyalty scheme
- Buy now, pay later with a €15 discount
Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Ships on the Piraeus – Heraklion route
4 ships work this crossing across 7 listed sailings, most often FESTOS PALACE.
FESTOS PALACE
Minoan Lines
2 sailings on this route
KNOSSOS PALACE
Minoan Lines
2 sailings on this route
Nissos Rodos
Hellenic Seaways
2 sailings on this route
World Champion Jet
SeaJets
1 sailing on this route
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
How many times a day does it sail?
7 sailings a day.
Is this a domestic or international route?
Domestic — the whole crossing stays within Greece.
How long, roughly, is the crossing?
About 9h 30m under normal conditions.
How do I get back from Heraklion?
Check the Heraklion to Piraeus ferry for return times.
Which operator provides this service?
Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, Minoan Lines and SeaJets operate this route.
How much does a ticket cost?
Fares start from €42 one-way for the cheapest class.
When's the last ferry of the day?
The last sailing leaves at 21:00.
What's the fastest crossing option?
The quickest option takes about 9h 15m. Crossing time depends on the operator and vessel — compare sailings from Minoan Lines above.
Can I do this as a day trip?
A same-day return is tight on this route — the crossing takes about 9h 15m each way. Most travellers stay at least one night. Check the return sailings before planning a day trip.
Is there an overnight option?
Some sailings run overnight — the longest crossing is around 9h 30m, and cabins or reclining seats are usually available. Check the individual sailing and operator for onboard sleeping options.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailings run daily, and frequency can change between the summer and winter seasons. The timetable above shows the latest published departures — confirm with the operator for off-season dates.
Can I take a car on this ferry?
Minoan Lines does not list vehicle space on this service — plan to travel as a foot passenger. If you need to bring a car, check with the operator for alternative crossings.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Heraklion
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Heraklion.
Same departure port
More ferries from Piraeus
Everything else that sails from the same quay.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Piraeus or Heraklion
Nearby links that share a quay with this one.
Timetable valid Sep 6, 2026 – Sep 19, 2026.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated September 6, 2026.
Operated by
Fares from
€42
Lowest published one-way fare. Final price varies by operator, date and vehicle.
Ports on this route
Piraeus on the map
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