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How to get from Crete to Santorini
In season, high-speed ferries from Heraklion reach Santorini in roughly 2 to 2 h 30, typically for about €70–110 one way. There is no road link and direct flights are rare, so outside the April–October ferry season the practical route is a flight via Athens.
Best option: Ferry. A direct high-speed boat from Heraklion is far quicker than any flight connection via Athens.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry High-speed ferries (SeaJets and other operators) from Heraklion port to Athinios port, Santorini | about 2 h – 2 h 30 | one to several sailings a day, roughly April to October; few or none in winter | about €70–110 per person | Seasonal and weather-dependent; check current timetables. Athinios port is below the cliff, about 20–30 minutes by bus or taxi to Fira. |
| flight Flights from Heraklion or Chania to Santorini, usually connecting in Athens | about 3–5 h including the connection | several daily options via Athens | about €80–200 | Direct Crete–Santorini flights are uncommon; check current schedules. Useful in winter when boats are scarce. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book ferries a few days ahead in July and August; high-speed boats sell out.
- High-speed catamarans can be rough in strong north winds (meltemi); take motion-sickness tablets if you are prone.
- Arrange a transfer or bus from Athinios in advance — taxis there are limited when a ferry arrives.
- Taking a car across is possible only on vessels that carry vehicles; most travellers rent a car on Santorini instead.
Common questions
Is there a ferry from Crete to Santorini all year?
Mainly not. Direct high-speed ferries from Heraklion run roughly from April to October, with the most sailings in July and August. In winter direct boats are rare or suspended, and the usual route is a flight via Athens or a ferry connection through Piraeus. Schedules are released season by season, so check current timetables before planning.
How long is the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini?
High-speed ferries take roughly 2 to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the vessel and whether it calls at other islands. Times stretch in strong winds, and sailings can be cancelled in bad weather. Allow another 20–30 minutes from Athinios port up to Fira or Oia by bus, transfer or taxi.
Can I fly directly from Crete to Santorini?
Direct flights are uncommon and, when they exist, seasonal. Most flight itineraries connect in Athens, taking about 3–5 hours in total. Flying makes sense mainly outside the ferry season or if you are prone to seasickness. Search Heraklion or Chania to Santorini (JTR) and compare the total journey time with the ferry.
Do I need to book the ferry ahead?
In July and August, yes — book several days ahead, especially for morning departures and for any vehicle. In May, June, September and October you can usually buy a day or two before. Tickets are sold online and at agencies in Heraklion. Arrive at the port about 45 minutes before departure; boarding is quick and boats leave on time.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.