FerryConnect

Greece

Kos → Nisyros

Kos Town to Mandraki on Nisyros, the volcanic island whose crater (Stefanos) is a popular day trip from Kos. The catamaran takes under an hour.

Kos to Nisyros ferry at a glance

The ferry from Kos to Nisyros takes 45m – 1h 40m across the Aegean Sea, operated by Dodekanisos Seaways and SAOS Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: dodekanisos Seaways catamarans on several days a week; SAOS Ferries car ferry on selected days.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: 12ne.gr · saos.gr · How we verify

Return crossing: Nisyros to Kos

Dodekanisos Seaways and SAOS Ferries also sail Nisyros to Kos, taking 45m – 1h 40m. Nisyros-Kos catamarans leave Mandraki mid-morning on the same days.

Kos to Nisyros ferry timetable & sailing pattern

The timetable below ended on 4 October 2026; check the official timetable (Dodekanisos Seaways) for current times before you travel. The SAOS Ferries schedule these times come from ran from 14 September to 4 October 2026; Dodekanisos Seaways sets its catamaran days week by week. Check both operators’ current itineraries before you travel.

Dodekanisos Seaways Kos-Nisyros on about 2 days a week (Rhodes-Halki-Tilos-Nisyros-Kos line); SAOS Ferries calls Kos-Nisyros on Tuesday and Saturday mornings (Sep-Oct 2026)

Departure times from the timetable that ended

  • 13:35 (Dodekanisos Pride, selected days)
  • 14:40 (Dodekanisos Express, selected days)

Return: Nisyros-Kos catamarans leave Mandraki mid-morning on the same days.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Dodekanisos Seaways timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Dodekanisos Seaways itinerary feed (sampled 3-9 Aug, 29 Sep-5 Oct, 10-14 Nov 2026); SAOS Ferries F/B Saonisos schedule 14.09-04.10.2026. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Kos and Nisyros

📐 22 Nautical Miles
Kos⇄Nisyros
⏱ 45m – 1h 40m · 📐 22 nm
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

Ready to cross from Kos to Nisyros?

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Dodekanisos Seaways45m – 50mDodekanisos Express (high-speed catamaran), Dodekanisos Pride (high-speed catamaran)
SAOS FerriesAbout 1h 40mSaonisos (passenger/car ferry)

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

22 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Mandraki is Nisyros’ main village and port
  • Kos Town port is in the town centre next to the castle

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Kos to Nisyros?
The crossing typically takes 45m – 1h 40m. By operator: Dodekanisos Seaways about 45m – 50m; SAOS Ferries about About 1h 40m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Kos to Nisyros ferry sail?
The timetable below ended on 4 October 2026; check the official timetable (Dodekanisos Seaways) for current times before you travel. Dodekanisos Seaways Kos-Nisyros on about 2 days a week (Rhodes-Halki-Tilos-Nisyros-Kos line); SAOS Ferries calls Kos-Nisyros on Tuesday and Saturday mornings (Sep-Oct 2026). This is the pattern published in the Dodekanisos Seaways itinerary feed (sampled 3-9 Aug, 29 Sep-5 Oct, 10-14 Nov 2026); SAOS Ferries F/B Saonisos schedule 14.09-04.10.2026 (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Kos to Nisyros?
Dodekanisos Seaways, SAOS Ferries operate this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Kos to Nisyros ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Kos to Nisyros ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Kos to Nisyros ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Kos from Nisyros by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 22 nautical miles (roughly 41 km).