How to Get From Heraklion to Santorini: 5 Quick and Scenic Routes for Island Hoppers in 2025
Planning a trip from Heraklion to Santorini? You’re in for a treat!
This island-hopping adventure connects two of Greece’s most stunning destinations across the sparkling Aegean Sea. You can travel from Heraklion to Santorini by ferry all year round, with up to 3 daily departures during summer and trip times as quick as 1 hour and 35 minutes on high-speed vessels.
Several companies—Seajets, Minoan Lines, Anek Lines—run ferries between these two hotspots. Depending on the season, vessel, and how far ahead you book, tickets can run from €16 to €160.
The regular ferry schedule kicks in from mid-April and runs through mid-October. Summer is, hands down, the best time for this journey.
If you’re pressed for time, you can always squeeze in a day trip from Crete to Santorini. The speedy ferry lets you explore Santorini and its iconic caldera views, then zip back to Heraklion by evening.
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Overview of Travel Options from Heraklion to Santorini
- Ferry Connections
- Flight Routes
- Private Charters and Transfers
- Taking the Ferry: Schedule, Companies, and Booking Tips
- Popular Ferry Companies and Vessels
- How to Book Ferry Tickets in Advance
- Seasonality and Timetables
- Traveling by Air: Flights Between Crete and Santorini
- Airlines Operating the Route
- Direct Flights Versus Connecting Options
- Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
- Alternative Routes and Day Trip Possibilities
- Island-Hopping via Mykonos
- Connecting Through Chania
- Arrival in Santorini: Ports, Airports, and Local Transport
- Santorini’s Athinios Port and Thira Airport
- How to Get Around Santorini Upon Arrival
- Expert Travel Tips and Little-Known Advice
- Best Seasons and Times to Travel
- Reasons to Use a Travel Agent
- Packing and Comfort Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the most reliable ferry services for traveling between Heraklion and Santorini?
- Can you recommend options for a day trip to Santorini from Heraklion, and what should I expect in terms of travel time?
- Are there any budget-friendly alternatives for the ferry crossing from Heraklion to Santorini?
- Could you highlight the differences in experience between taking a flight versus a ferry when traveling from Crete to Santorini?
- What tips would you offer for planning a seamless day trip from Crete to Santorini?
- Do any ferry companies offer a high-speed service from Heraklion to Santorini, and if so, how does this affect the overall journey time?
- More Travel Guides
Key Takeaways
- Ferries run year-round, with up to 3 daily departures in summer.
- High-speed ferries can make the trip in just 1 hour 35 minutes, and tickets range from €16-160.
- Day trips are totally doable, thanks to quick crossings and frequent service.
Overview of Travel Options from Heraklion to Santorini
Getting from Heraklion to Santorini? You’ve got options, whether you’re watching your wallet or splurging.
You can go by sea or air, and each has its perks and quirks.
Ferry Connections
Most folks take the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini. Ferries run all year but ramp up during tourist season—mid-April to mid-October.
Minoan Lines, Anek Lines, and SeaJets handle this route. High-speed ferries zip across in about 1 hour and 35 minutes, while conventional ones take closer to 4 hours.
Tickets start at €16 ($19), but prices rise in peak season or if you want the fancy seats. Booking early is smart, especially in summer when everyone else has the same idea.
The ferry ride itself? Gorgeous. Watching Santorini’s caldera come into view from the water is something else.
Flight Routes
Not much time to spare? Flying’s your best bet.
Aegean Airlines runs direct flights between Heraklion and Santorini, though it’s sometimes seasonal. The flight itself takes just 30-40 minutes.
But, with airport shenanigans, you’re looking at about 2-3 hours door to door. Flight prices jump around a lot—book ahead if you can, or risk paying a small fortune last minute.
Flying gets you there fast. Plus, if you snag a window seat, the views coming into Santorini can be unreal.
Private Charters and Transfers
If you crave flexibility or want to splash out, private charters are an option. You can book a speedboat or yacht for a direct transfer.
Usually, these services include hotel pickup in Heraklion and drop-off at your place in Santorini (Thira). The speedboat ride clocks in at about 2 hours, give or take, depending on the sea.
These private trips cost a lot more—think €800-1000 and up for a group. But you get personalized service and can travel on your own schedule.
Some charters even let you stop for a swim at uninhabited islands en route. Suddenly, your transfer is a mini-adventure.
Taking the Ferry: Schedule, Companies, and Booking Tips
The ferry trip from Heraklion to Santorini serves up killer Aegean views and usually takes 2-3 hours, depending on which boat you pick.
Several companies keep this route busy, with schedules that change throughout the year.
Popular Ferry Companies and Vessels
Seajets runs some of the fastest ferries. Their Champion Jet gets rave reviews for being big, stable, and quick—expect to make it to Santorini in about 2 hours.
Golden Star Ferries and Minoan Lines also run this route, though it depends on the time of year. Vessels range from small catamarans to big, classic ferries.
High-speed boats cost more, with standard adult tickets starting around €80. If you’re not in a rush, slower ferries can save you a few euros.
If you get seasick easily, go for the bigger boats like Champion Jet—they handle choppy water better than the smaller ones.
How to Book Ferry Tickets in Advance
Book your ferry tickets ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling between June and September. Here’s how you can do it:
- Online booking platforms like Ferryhopper and Direct Ferries let you compare prices and schedules.
- Ferry company websites sometimes have their own deals.
- Local travel agents in Heraklion can help if you’re already in Crete.
You can usually book 3-6 months out. Pay by credit card, and you’ll get e-tickets to print or flash on your phone.
Some folks wait until they’re in Crete to buy tickets, but in summer, that’s a gamble—ferries do sell out.
Seasonality and Timetables
Ferries run all year, but how often depends on the season.
During peak summer (June-September), you’ll see daily departures—sometimes 2-3 a day. Most leave in the morning (around 8-9 AM) or early afternoon.
In the shoulder months (April-May, October), expect 4-5 departures per week. Winter (November-March) drops down to just a handful.
Weather can mess with schedules, especially in winter when the Aegean gets rough. Always double-check your ferry status the day before, especially if the forecast looks iffy.
Morning departures are your best bet—less chance of delays and you’ll have time to settle in Santorini before sunset.
Traveling by Air: Flights Between Crete and Santorini
Flying from Heraklion to Santorini is usually the fastest way, with just 30-45 minutes in the air.
Several airlines fly this route, especially when tourists flood the islands in summer.
Airlines Operating the Route
Aegean Airlines is the big player here. They run daily flights during peak season (May-October) with solid service and modern planes.
Sky Express, a smaller Greek airline, has been expanding and sometimes offers decent prices compared to Aegean.
Jet2, mostly for British package holidaymakers, also flies this route in summer.
Always check the baggage rules—Aegean is more generous, but budget airlines will nickel-and-dime you for checked bags.
Direct Flights Versus Connecting Options
Direct flights take about 30-45 minutes. In summer, you’ll find plenty of non-stop options.
Come winter (November-April), direct flights dry up. You’ll probably need to connect via Athens, which can add 3-4 hours to your trip.
Sometimes, connecting flights are cheaper if your dates are flexible. Some travelers mix a Heraklion-Athens flight with an Athens-Santorini leg to save some cash.
If you’re starting from Chania (western Crete), you’ll almost always need to connect somewhere—direct options are rare.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Booking 2-3 months in advance usually gets you the best deals. One-way flights start around $47, with returns from $119, but prices swing a lot with demand.
Travel mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) for lower fares. Early morning or late-night flights can be cheaper too.
Set up fare alerts—Skyscanner and Google Flights work well for tracking price drops.
Shoulder season (April-May or September-October) brings better deals and fewer crowds. The islands are less crowded then, and the weather’s still lovely.
If Mykonos is also on your list, check for multi-island flight packages—they sometimes work out cheaper than booking separate tickets.
Alternative Routes and Day Trip Possibilities
The direct ferry from Heraklion to Santorini is the classic move, but you’ve got a few other options if you want to mix things up.
These alternatives can add some extra adventure (and maybe a little chaos) to your plans.
Island-Hopping via Mykonos
If you’re not in a hurry, swing through Mykonos on your way to Santorini. It turns your transfer into a mini island-hopping trip.
Ferries from Heraklion to Mykonos run 3-4 times a week in high season. That leg takes about 5-6 hours, depending on the boat and the weather.
You could spend a night or two in Mykonos—hit the beaches, check out the nightlife. When you’re ready, ferries from Mykonos to Santorini run regularly in summer and take about 2-3 hours.
This route works if you want to see more islands, have a flexible schedule, don’t mind spending a bit more, or just want to break up the travel.
Connecting Through Chania
If you’re already in western Crete, or want to see Chania, you could route your trip that way.
First, get from Heraklion to Chania by bus (about 2.5 hours) or rental car (2 hours). KTEL buses run often and cost around €15 one-way.
From Chania port, seasonal ferries go to Santorini, but not as often as from Heraklion. The crossing takes about 3-4 hours, with SeaJets running this route in peak season.
This way, you get to enjoy Chania’s Venetian harbor and old town before heading to Santorini. Just keep in mind, ferry schedules from Chania can be unpredictable—book ahead if you’re traveling in summer.
Arrival in Santorini: Ports, Airports, and Local Transport
When you finally reach Santorini, you’ll arrive at either Athinios Port or Thira Airport.
Both are pretty different, and knowing what you’re in for helps a lot.
Santorini’s Athinios Port and Thira Airport
All ferries from Heraklion dock at Athinios Port. It’s tucked at the bottom of a cliff, with a winding road climbing up to the main towns.
Arriving here—especially if you take the earliest ferry from Heraklion (usually around 07:10)—can be hectic. The port is small and gets crowded in summer.
If you fly, you’ll land at Thira Airport on the island’s east side. The airport is tiny but modern, with domestic flights from Athens and other Greek cities, plus international flights during the summer rush.
Both the port and airport have taxi stands, but taxis get snapped up fast in peak season. If you’re traveling June to September, it’s smart to pre-book your transfer.
Honestly, a little planning here saves a lot of stress.
How to Get Around Santorini Upon Arrival
When you arrive in Santorini, you’ve got a few ways to get to your hotel. Taxis are always waiting, but honestly, they’re pricey—expect to pay €20-35 depending on where you’re headed.
Many hotels throw in a pickup service if you ask ahead of time. It’s definitely worth arranging before you land.
The public bus system links the port and airport with main towns like Fira and Oia. Buses from the port come pretty often in summer, about every hour, and cost €2-3 per ride.
If you’re coming from the airport, buses aren’t as frequent, so you’ll need a bit more patience.
Renting a car, ATV, or scooter gives you the most freedom to explore. Rental agencies have desks at both the port and airport, but if you’re traveling in the summer, booking ahead is a must.
Feeling adventurous and traveling light? The cable car from the old port (not Athinios) up to Fira is a fun option, and the views are honestly spectacular—about €6 one way.
Once you’re settled, local water taxis can get you between coastal towns and give you a fresh perspective of the island.
Expert Travel Tips and Little-Known Advice
Getting from Heraklion to Santorini isn’t always straightforward. If you know a few tricks, though, you can make the whole thing way less stressful.
Best Seasons and Times to Travel
Mid-May to early June is honestly the sweet spot for hopping between Heraklion and Santorini. Ferries run regularly, crowds are manageable, and prices haven’t gone wild yet.
Try to snag a morning ferry—ones leaving Heraklion around 9:00-10:00 AM are usually smoother. The Aegean gets choppier in the afternoon when the wind picks up.
The Champion Jet by Sea Jets is a bit pricier, but it’s faster, bigger, and feels more stable. Some travelers wait to buy tickets until they’re actually in Crete, and sometimes the prices are better than booking months in advance. Who knew?
I’d avoid traveling around major Greek holidays like August 15th (Assumption Day). Locals pack the ferries and it gets hectic.
Late September is another gem—great weather, half the crowds, and you won’t feel rushed.
Reasons to Use a Travel Agent
Local travel agents in Heraklion often have the inside scoop on ferry schedules and availability. Sometimes they spot connection issues you wouldn’t notice booking online.
They’ve got relationships with the ferry companies and can grab tickets even when the website says “sold out.” That can really save you during peak season.
If your ferry gets canceled because of weather, your agent will often let you know before the ferry company updates anything online. That’s pretty handy.
A good agent will recommend ferries that handle rough seas better. If you’re prone to seasickness, that’s a lifesaver.
Packing and Comfort Suggestions
Bring motion sickness remedies, even if you think you won’t need them. The sea between Heraklion and Santorini can get rough, especially on smaller boats.
Ginger candies are a favorite—they help and won’t knock you out like some meds do.
Always pack a light jacket. Ferries crank up the air conditioning, and the wind on deck can be surprisingly chilly.
Download your ferry company’s app before you go. Real-time updates often hit the app before the website.
Keep your swimsuit and sunscreen in your carry-on. If you get to Santorini early, why not hit the beach while you wait for your room?
Bring small euro bills for snacks and drinks onboard. Not every ferry cafeteria takes cards, and sometimes the machines just don’t work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelers crossing from Heraklion to Santorini tend to have a lot of the same questions. Here are some answers that might help you plan.
What are the most reliable ferry services for traveling between Heraklion and Santorini?
Seajets gets the nod for reliability on this route. Their high-speed catamarans like the Elite Jet can carry up to 1000 passengers and 140 vehicles.
These big catamarans feel more stable, so they’re a good pick if you’re worried about seasickness. Seajets usually runs two sailings a day during tourist season.
Golden Star Ferries and Minoan Lines also cover this route, and people seem to like their service.
Can you recommend options for a day trip to Santorini from Heraklion, and what should I expect in terms of travel time?
Day trips from Heraklion to Santorini are totally doable. Seajets even has special day excursion packages so you can get a taste of Santorini without staying overnight.
High-speed ferries take about 2 to 2.5 hours each way. Morning departures from Heraklion are usually around 8:00-9:00 AM, with the return leaving Santorini in the evening around 5:00-6:00 PM.
You’ll have about 6-7 hours to roam around Santorini—enough for Oia, Fira, and maybe a black sand beach or two.
Are there any budget-friendly alternatives for the ferry crossing from Heraklion to Santorini?
High-speed catamarans cost more than the old-school ferries, but the Heraklion-Santorini route is mostly served by the fast ones.
If you want to save some cash, book your tickets early, especially outside of peak season (late October to April). Prices can drop a lot when it’s quieter.
Some ferry companies throw in early booking discounts—sometimes 10-20% off if you buy 2-3 months ahead.
Could you highlight the differences in experience between taking a flight versus a ferry when traveling from Crete to Santorini?
Flying from Heraklion to Santorini is definitely faster—flight time is just 30-40 minutes—but it’s usually more expensive. And then there’s the whole airport routine.
On the ferry, you get those epic Aegean views and the thrill of approaching Santorini’s caldera by sea. You can wander around, grab a snack, and actually enjoy the trip.
Flights might make sense if the weather’s rough, but ferries let you bring more luggage and even a rental car if you need it.
What tips would you offer for planning a seamless day trip from Crete to Santorini?
Definitely book your ferry tickets ahead of time during high season (June-September). Having tickets in hand saves you a headache.
Bring your booking confirmation or voucher to the port so you can swap it for your actual ticket. Try to get there at least 45 minutes before departure.
Don’t forget essentials—sunscreen, water, and comfy shoes. Santorini’s got lots of steep paths and stairs.
If you can, arrange transportation on Santorini in advance. Taxis can be hard to find, especially when the ferries arrive.
Do any ferry companies offer a high-speed service from Heraklion to Santorini, and if so, how does this affect the overall journey time?
Yep, every ferry running between Heraklion and Santorini these days is a high-speed catamaran. Seajets, for example, has a bunch of modern high-speed vessels.
They usually make the crossing in about 2 to 2.5 hours. That’s a pretty big improvement over the old-school ferries, which would drag it out for 4 or 5 hours.
Of course, this speed comes at a price—tickets cost more. Plus, these catamarans sometimes get canceled if the weather turns rough.
