Greece
Piraeus to Heraklion Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Piraeus
Attica
Arrives
Heraklion
Crete
At a glance
The Piraeus to Heraklion ferry takes about 7h 50m–10h, with 7 listed sailings between 09:00 and 21:00. It is operated by Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets and 1 more. Fares start from €42.
- First sailing
- 09:00
- Last sailing
- 21:00
- Sailings listed
- 7
- Crossing
- from 7h 50m
Piraeus to Heraklion ferry timetable
| Departs | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | 8h 45m | Hellenic SeawaysNissos Rodos | Sat |
| 09:00 | 8h 45m | Blue Star Ferries | Thu |
| 09:30 | 7h 50m | SeaJetsWorld Champion Jet | Daily |
| 17:00 | 10h | Blue Star Ferries | Wed, Fri |
| 21:00 | 9h 50m | Blue Star Ferries | Tue, Fri, Sat |
| 21:00 | 9h 50m | Hellenic SeawaysNissos Rodos | Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun |
| 21:00 | 9h 30m | Minoan Lines | 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
Heraklion, Crete receives ferries from 10 ports , including Piraeus and multiple Cycladic islands. A total of 18 routes connect to the port. Four ferry operators service Heraklion: Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, Minoan Lines, and SeaJets. The port facilitates connections to Anafi, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Sitia, and Syros. Heraklion Ferry Timetables The crossing time to Heraklion varies based on the departure port and operator. The shortest journey is 2 hours. The longest direct connection takes 9 hours and 30 minutes. Most routes connect Heraklion with other islands in the Aegean Sea, while the Piraeus connection links Crete to the Greek mainland. Sitia provides an intra-island ferry link on Crete itself.
Full Heraklion travel guideVehicles, pets & onboard
- WiFi on board
- @sea infotainment
- Thalassea Magazine
- Pet registration
- Self Service & combo menus
- Cabins
- Self-service restaurants
- Cafés and bars
- Vehicle decks
- Pet-friendly travel
- Onboard WiFi
- Air-conditioned cabins
- Reserved seating
- Business & VIP classes
- Café & snack bar
- Pet-friendly areas
- Cruise-ferry cabins
- Airline-style seats & deck
- Restaurants & shops
- Exhaust-gas scrubbers
Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
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 and Hellenic Seaways and Minoan Lines and SeaJets operates 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 7h 50m. Crossing time depends on the operator and vessel — compare sailings from Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets and Minoan Lines above.
Can I do this as a day trip?
A same-day return is tight on this route — the crossing takes about 7h 50m 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 10h, 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?
Yes — Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets and Minoan Lines carries vehicles on this route. Book your car space in advance, especially in peak season, and check the specific sailing for size limits.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Heraklion
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Heraklion.
Same departure port
More ferries from Piraeus
Other crossings departing Piraeus.
Piraeus to Aegina
- Fastest crossing
- 40m
- Operators
- 2 operators
See schedule
Piraeus to Chania
- Fastest crossing
- 8h
- Operators
- 3 operators
See schedule
Piraeus to Chios
- Fastest crossing
- 6h 55m
- Operators
- 3 operators
See schedule
Piraeus to Kos
- Fastest crossing
- 9h 35m
- Operators
- 1 operator
See schedule
Piraeus to Leros
- Fastest crossing
- 9h 10m
- Operators
- 2 operators
See schedule
Piraeus to Lesvos
- Fastest crossing
- 12h 20m
- Operators
- 1 operator
See schedule
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Piraeus or Heraklion
Other ferries that stop at the same quays — handy for connections and nearby travel.
Choosing an operator
Compare operators on this crossing
More than one company sails Piraeus–Heraklion — see how they stack up.
Timetable valid Jan 1, 2026 – Sep 30, 2026.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated June 17, 2026.
Operators on this route
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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