
The Piraeus to Heraklion ferry is built around the overnight crossing, with the big Minoan and Blue Star vessels leaving Piraeus at 9pm and docking in Crete's main port around 7am. Book a cabin and your journey becomes part of your holiday rather than a means of transport: you sleep through the Aegean and wake up in Heraklion ready for the day, no hotel night sacrificed at either end. In season, SeaJets run a daytime high-speed alternative in around seven hours fifty minutes, if you'd rather admire the view than sleep through it.
Stay ahead of your travel plans with the latest timetable information. While frequencies can shift based on the season, the general schedule is as follows:
First Sailing: The first ferry typically departs Piraeus at approximately 00:00.
Last Sailing: The final departure of the day usually sets sail at around 22:00.
If no direct sailings are currently available for your chosen dates, please check our Alternative Routes section below to find the next best connection to your destination.
Data last updated NaN
Fares for the Piraeus to Heraklion ferry are dynamic. Booking in advance is the single most effective way to secure the lowest price.
Price Range: Recent averages show tickets priced between €33 and €807.
Typical Fare: Most travelers pay an average of €502.
Best Value: If possible, consider traveling during mid-week or off-peak hours and avoid last-minute bookings at the port.
The crossing time is typically around 7h 55m. Depending on the operator you choose and the weather conditions, this may fluctuate slightly. For real-time durations on your travel date, use our live search tool.
Prices vary based on season, vehicle type, and booking lead time. Averages range from €33 to €807. Please note that traveling with a vehicle (car, motorcycle, or campervan) will incur additional costs compared to foot passenger fares.
Several operators run services, including Minoan Lines, SeaJets, Superfast Ferries, ANEK Lines, Hellenic Seaways, Blue Star Ferries. Together, they offer up to 4 sailings every day, giving you maximum flexibility for your departure.
You can book your ferry quickly and securely via Openferry. Our platform compares live prices and schedules across all operators, allowing you to secure an instant e-ticket without the hassle of port queues.
Most ferries on the Piraeus to Heraklion route welcome foot passengers. Availability can change by season, so we recommend confirming and booking your spot in advance.
In most cases, yes. Vehicle spaces are limited and often sell out during peak travel periods, so early reservation is highly recommended.
Some operators are pet-friendly. You may be required to keep your pet in your vehicle or a designated kennel area. Ensure you have a valid pet passport or any required health documentation ready for check-in.