Overnight Ferry Transfers Between Athens and Heraklion, Crete
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Overnight Ferry Transfers Between Athens and Heraklion, Crete

Active
9h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Set sail from Athens to Crete on a scenic overnight ferry ride across the Aegean Sea. This 9.5 hour journey transforms your travel into a delightful mini-cruise, allowing you to unwind in comfortable lounges while savoring Mediterranean and international cuisine onboard. Whether you choose a cozy private cabin or relax in the spacious deck lounges, the gentle rocking of the ship provides a serene backdrop to your adventure. Upon arrival in Heraklion, explore Crete’s rich history, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes

- Overnight ferry crossing between Athens and Heraklion
- Travel on spacious MINOAN LINES vessels with restaurant, bar, shops and lounges
- Convenient departure points in both Athens and Heraklion with easy access to city centers

Whether you're planning a Greek island adventure, connecting to international flights, or simply seeking a comfortable way to cross the Aegean, this ferry service delivers a convenient and enjoyable travel solution from start to finish.

Available options

Heraklion, Crete → Athens

From Heraklion to Athens: One-way ferry from Heraklion, Crete to Athens. Pick a time, get your e-ticket by email, and head to the port to board.<br/>Starting point:<br/>84VV+927, Heraklion, Greece

Athens → Heraklion, Crete

From Athens to Heraklion: One-way ferry from Athens to Heraklion, Crete. Pick a time, get your e-ticket by email, and head to the port to board.<br/>Starting point:<br/>WJVM+RGQ, Piraeus, Greece

What's included

Comfortable passenger areas on board
Onboard shopping and entertainment
Overnight ferry ticket for the option booked
Luggage allowance for 2 bags plus 1 hand luggage per passenger
Administration costs and booking fees
Access to onboard restaurants and bars

What you'll see

Travel comfortably between Athens and Heraklion on a smooth overnight ferry crossing designed to make your long-distance journey easy, convenient, and worry-free. This service connects two major destinations in Greece with reliable schedules, spacious vessels, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere that lets you simply settle in and enjoy the trip from the moment you arrive at the port until the moment you step off the ferry.

Book online: Choose your preferred route, date, and departure time. Once your booking is complete, you'll receive an e-ticket by email containing all boarding information and travel details you need for a seamless start to your trip.

Arrival at port: Your journey begins at Piraeus Port in Athens or at Heraklion Port in Crete. Both ports are well connected by public transport, taxis, and private transfers, making arrival simple from city centers or airport locations. Clear signage guides you to the MINOAN LINES departure gates. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 60 minutes before departure to allow time for luggage drop-off and boarding procedures.

Board the ferry: Present your e-ticket at the boarding area and make your way onto the vessel. Once on board, you’ll find comfortable lounges, restaurants, bars, shops, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship. You may also choose to upgrade to a private cabin directly on board (subject to availability and an additional fee), offering extra comfort during the overnight crossing.

Enjoy the ride: Settle into your seat, explore the ship, enjoy a meal or drink, or simply relax as the ferry sails smoothly across the Aegean. The overnight atmosphere makes it easy to unwind and rest while traveling between the mainland and Crete.

Arrive & disembark: As the ferry docks at the port, follow crew instructions for an organized disembarkation. Both Piraeus and Heraklion ports offer taxis, buses, and rental options just steps from the terminal, allowing you to continue your journey with ease.

Return trip options: You can simply book separate one-way tickets for each leg. This provides full flexibility to create an itinerary that suits your plans perfectly.

Ferries operate daily or near-daily depending on the season, typically sailing overnight with an approximate travel time of 9 hours and 30 minutes.

Meeting points and departure instructions will be communicated clearly in your confirmation email. Luggage allowance: You may bring 2 bags plus 1 hand luggage for free. Extra bags require a bill of lading issued at the ferry company’s ticket office at the port.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Personal expenses and shopping items
Meals, beverages and onboard purchases
Extra charges for luggage exceeding the free allowance limits

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for people prone to seasickness

Meeting point

Meet at Heraklion Port. Look for the MINOAN LINES vessel. Dock may vary slightly. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with port details and any required check-in instructions. Please arrive 1 hour prior to your scheduled departure.

Important notes

You will receive a separate confirmation email containing your official ferry e-tickets. You must present these e-tickets at the port to board. Please make sure to refer to your booking confirmation email for all the necessary travel details and any required boarding instructions. Please check your spam folder too.

About Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city rich in history and culture, often considered the cradle of Western civilization. It is home to iconic ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving modern scene.

Top Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is the most iconic landmark in Athens, featuring ancient ruins and temples, including the Parthenon.

Historical 2-3 hours €20 (combined ticket for multiple sites)

Ancient Agora of Athens

The heart of ancient Athens, featuring the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (included in the combined ticket)

Plaka

A charming, historic neighborhood with narrow streets, neoclassical houses, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore

Acropolis Museum

A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis and its surroundings.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Temple of Olympian Zeus

An ancient temple dedicated to Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour €6 (included in the combined ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moussaka

A baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Souvlaki

Grilled meat skewers, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

Snack Can be made with chicken, pork, or vegetarian options

Tzatziki

A yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Rock climbing Scuba diving Beach visits Spa treatments Café hopping Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Athens is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

18°C to 32°C 64°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Greek
  • Widely spoken: English, French, German
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Athens is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
  • • Be cautious with ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air
  • Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport • 30 km from city center
By train

Athens Central Railway Station

By bus

KTEL Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Easy to navigate with clear signage in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plaka Monastiraki Psiri Koukaki Kolonaki

Day trips

Cape Sounion
65 km from Athens • Half day to full day

A scenic coastal area featuring the Temple of Poseidon with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Delphi
180 km from Athens • Full day

An ancient archaeological site and home to the famous Oracle of Delphi.

Meteora
350 km from Athens • Overnight

A unique landscape featuring rock formations and medieval monasteries perched atop cliffs.

Festivals

Athens Festival • May to October Athens Epidaurus Festival • June to August Athens International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
  • Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city
  • Explore local neighborhoods for an authentic Greek experience
  • Try local street food for a quick and delicious meal
  • Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-59
1
Childs
Age 5-12
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 9
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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