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How to get from Kefalonia to Zakynthos
In summer a direct ferry links Pessada in southern Kefalonia with Agios Nikolaos (Skinari) in northern Zakynthos, taking about 1 h 15–1 h 30. Outside summer you must go via Kyllini on the mainland, which takes about 4–6 h with two ferries.
Best option: Ferry. The summer Pessada–Agios Nikolaos ferry is short and direct, and there are no regular flights between the islands.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Summer ferry from Pessada (Kefalonia) to Agios Nikolaos (Skinari), northern Zakynthos | about 1 h 15–1 h 30 | usually 1–2 sailings a day in summer only | about €10–15 per person, about €35–50 for a car | Pessada is about 20 minutes from Argostoli; Agios Nikolaos is about 1 h from Zakynthos town. Check current timetables. |
| ferry Ferry from Poros or Argostoli (Kefalonia) to Kyllini on the mainland, then Kyllini to Zakynthos town | about 4–6 h including the wait | daily, year-round | about €20–40 per person, more with a car | The year-round route when the Pessada ferry is not running. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book a car space on the Pessada ferry in July and August; it is a small boat.
- The Blue Caves and Navagio viewpoint are close to the Agios Nikolaos port.
- Taxis are rare at Pessada; arrange transport in advance if you have no car.
- Check the departure time the day before; small-island timetables can change.
Common questions
Is there a ferry from Kefalonia to Zakynthos?
Yes, in summer. A ferry runs from Pessada in southern Kefalonia to Agios Nikolaos (Skinari) in northern Zakynthos, usually once or twice a day, taking about 1 h 15–1 h 30. Outside summer, you go via Kyllini on the mainland, using two ferries. Check current timetables.
Can I fly from Kefalonia to Zakynthos?
There are no regular flights. Some seasons have had small island-hopping flights between the Ionian islands, so check if one is operating. Otherwise flying means changing in Athens, which takes far longer than the direct summer ferry and costs considerably more.
Can I do Zakynthos as a day trip from Kefalonia?
In summer, yes, if the morning and evening sailings line up and you take a car. From Agios Nikolaos it is a short drive to the Blue Caves and the Navagio viewpoint. Without a car, the trip is harder because taxis are limited at both ports.
Do I need to book ahead?
For a car in July and August, yes, because the Pessada boat is small and car spaces sell out. Foot passengers can usually buy at the port, but booking is still sensible in peak season. Check the timetable again the day before travelling.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.