Schinoussa Ferries

Unlock your adventure to Greece at the incredible port of Schinoussa! It's your essential gateway to the stunning nearby islands. Imagine seamless connections and breath-taking scenic journeys – that's what awaits you.

As a bustling hub for both passengers and freight, Schinoussa boasts an impressive 26 ferry routes operated by 7 top-tier ferry companies. Get ready for a convenient sailing experience from Schinoussa, with schedules perfectly tailored to the seasons, ensuring you always find your ideal departure, no matter the demand, weather, or tourism buzz. Your unforgettable escape begins here!

Schinoussa offers wonderful connections to popular routes like Naxos - Schinoussa, Piraeus - Schinoussa, Koufonissi - Schinoussa. You can customize your trip by choosing between a swift high-speed ferry to get there in a flash or a classic vessel for a more scenic, relaxing journey. From quick local hops to leisurely overnight voyages, your island adventure starts here.

Getting to your destination is a breeze with several excellent ferry operators departing regularly from Schinoussa. You'll find companies like Small Cyclades Lines, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets ready to whisk you away.

Each offers a variety of onboard amenities to make your journey pleasant, from comfortable seating and delicious food and drink options to private cabins and even vehicle transport.

With a range of ticket options available depending on the company and vessel, there's something to suit everyone, whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a business trip.

Whether you're dreaming of an exhilarating island-hopping escape, making your way back to the comfort of home, or embarking on a brand-new journey, your perfect voyage begins right here with Schinoussa.

Schinoussa is primarily accessible by ferry services operating from larger Greek islands and the mainland. Regular connections run from Naxos (approximately 1-2 hours) and Piraeus (Athens' main port, roughly 5-6 hours depending on the vessel type). Travelers can reach the departure ports via bus networks, rental cars, or taxis. From Athens, the suburban railway offers convenient transfers to Piraeus port. For those arriving from other islands, local inter-island ferries frequently connect to Schinoussa during summer months, with reduced schedules during winter. Limited parking is available near departure ports, so arriving early is recommended if traveling with a vehicle.

Tucked away in the Lesser Cyclades archipelago, Schinoussa offers an authentic Greek island experience far from the tourist crowds. This tiny gem spans just 8.5 square kilometers but packs an impressive array of pristine beaches, traditional tavernas, and breathtaking landscapes. As a ferry destination, Schinoussa provides the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, allowing visitors to experience the unhurried pace and genuine hospitality that define the true essence of Greek island life.

Schinoussa enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The ideal time to visit is from late May through early October when temperatures range pleasantly from 22-30°C and the sea is perfect for swimming. July and August bring the warmest weather and most frequent ferry connections, though this coincides with higher visitor numbers. For those seeking tranquility, the shoulder months of May, June, and September offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and still-reliable ferry services. The annual Feast of the Virgin Mary on August 15th brings lively celebrations to the island, while October offers excellent hiking conditions before winter's occasional rainy spells reduce ferry frequency.

Schinoussa serves as an excellent base for exploring the enchanting Small Cyclades island group. From here, you can easily reach Koufonisia (just 30 minutes by ferry), where golden beaches and crystal waters create a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. Nearby Iraklia (approximately 20 minutes) offers impressive caves, hiking paths, and untouched landscapes perfect for nature enthusiasts. The larger island of Naxos lies about 1-2 hours away, presenting historic sites, mountain villages, and vibrant waterfront dining. During summer, special island-hopping routes allow visitors to experience multiple islands in a single day, making Schinoussa an ideal hub for experiencing the diverse character of the Cycladic archipelago.

Schinoussa invites visitors to embrace its relaxed island rhythm through simple yet memorable experiences. The island boasts 15 stunning beaches, with Tsigouri and Lioliou offering easy access from the main village, while secluded Almyros and Psili Ammos reward those willing to venture further. The island's walking paths connect charming villages like Chora and Messaria, where authentic tavernas serve local specialties including fresh fish, goat cheese, and thyme honey. Don't miss sampling 'fava' (yellow split pea puree) and 'pasteli' (honey sesame bars) paired with local wines at a seaside taverna. The Church of Panagia Akathi in Chora provides both cultural interest and spectacular views across the Aegean, especially magical at sunset.

Despite its diminutive size, Schinoussa harbors fascinating stories and peculiarities. The island's name likely derives from the Greek word for 'schoinos' (rush plant) which once grew abundantly along its shores. During the 19th century, Schinoussa served as a hideout for pirates who took advantage of its numerous coves and minimal population. Remarkably, until the 1980s, the island had no electricity and was largely self-sufficient through farming and fishing. Today, Schinoussa maintains one of the lowest permanent populations in the inhabited Cyclades with fewer than 250 year-round residents, many of whom are related to each other, creating a uniquely close-knit island community.