FerryConnect

Greece

Piraeus (Athens) → Heraklion (Crete)

The classic overnight ferry from Athens to Crete. Board in Piraeus in the evening and wake up in Heraklion, close to Knossos. Taking a car is popular because Crete is large and public transport is limited in rural areas.

⏱ 7h – 9h 30m (overnight)🚢 2 operators📅 Nightly overnight sailings; extra day sailings in summer🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete) takes 7h – 9h 30m (overnight) across the Aegean & Cretan Sea, operated by Minoan Lines and ANEK Lines. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: nightly overnight sailings; extra day sailings in summer.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Piraeus (Athens) and Heraklion (Crete)

📐 175 Nautical Miles
Piraeus (Athens)⇄Heraklion (Crete)
⏱ 7h – 9h 30m (overnight) · 📐 175 nm
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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Minoan Lines8h – 9h 30mCruise-ferries
ANEK Lines8h – 9h 30mCruise-ferries

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

175 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Heraklion port is a short walk from the old town and the KTEL intercity bus station
  • The Northern Road (VOAK) connects Heraklion with Chania, Rethymno and Agios Nikolaos

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from Piraeus (Athens)Athens (Piraeus) → Santorini (Thira)4h 45m – 7h 45m · Blue Star Ferries, SeaJetsAlso sails from Piraeus (Athens)Piraeus (Athens) → Mykonos2h 30m – 5h 30m · Blue Star Ferries, SeaJetsAlso sails from Piraeus (Athens)Piraeus (Athens) → Paros3h – 4h 30m · Blue Star Ferries, SeaJetsAlso sails from Piraeus (Athens)Piraeus (Athens) → Aegina40m – 1h 15m · Saronic Ferries, Aegean Flying DolphinsAlso sails from Piraeus (Athens)Piraeus (Athens) → Hydra1h 30m – 2h · Hellenic SeawaysAlso sails from Piraeus (Athens)Piraeus (Athens) → Rhodes13h – 17h (often overnight) · Blue Star Ferries
⚓ Piraeus Port (Athens) guide⛴ All ferries from Piraeus⛴ All ferries from Heraklion🌊 Aegean Sea ferries🗺 All ferries in Greece🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a ferry from Athens to Crete?
Yes. Overnight cruise-ferries sail from Piraeus to Heraklion and to Chania (Souda) most nights, with cabins, lounges and restaurants on board.
How long is the ferry from Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete)?
The crossing typically takes 7h – 9h 30m (overnight). By operator: Minoan Lines about 8h – 9h 30m; ANEK Lines about 8h – 9h 30m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete)?
Minoan Lines, ANEK Lines operate this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete) 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 Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete) 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 Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete) 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 Piraeus (Athens) from Heraklion (Crete) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 175 nautical miles (roughly 324 km).