Map & Ferry routes to Santorini
Over two million summer travelers funnel through the towering volcanic cliffs into the tiny, heavily congested port of Athinios. Seajets and Blue Star Ferries are the largest operators running these fast catamarans and conventional car ferries straight from Piraeus. Review the ferry map above to plan your quick caldera escapes north to Ios or west to Folegandros. Leave your rental car on the mainland because the narrow cliffside roads are completely gridlocked with buses from June through August.
From Athens to Santorini
Do you want to travel from Athens to Santorini? Then look at the departure port of Piraeus.
Showing all 12 services
About the ferries to Santorini
Santorini is a central hub for the Cyclades ferry network. In 2026, major operators include Seajets, Blue Star Ferries, and Fast Ferries. All commercial passenger ferries use a single port regardless of the vessel size or destination.
Athinios Port is the only port for passenger ferries. It is located at the base of the caldera cliff and is connected to Fira and other towns via a steep, winding road.
| Departure Port | Arrival Port | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Piraeus (Athens) | Santorini | 4.5 to 8 hours. High-speed vessels (Seajets) are significantly faster than conventional ships. |
| Heraklion (Crete) | Santorini | 1.5 to 3 hours. Daily seasonal high-speed connections are standard. |
| Mykonos | Santorini | 2 to 3.5 hours. A primary inter-island route with multiple daily sailings in summer. |
- Vessel Stability: Conventional ferries (Blue Star) are larger and more stable in rough seas compared to small high-speed catamarans.
- Nearby Islands: Santorini is the main departure point for ferries to Ios, Anafi, and Folegandros.
- Arrival Tip: Arrange port transfers in advance. Taxis at Athinios are limited and buses are often crowded upon ferry arrival.
