Wondering how to get from Athens to Crete? Or maybe you’re not sure whether to use the ferry or plane?

This detailed comparison has you covered.

Here is everything you need to know to decide between a boat or plane for your trip to Crete from Athens!

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If you want specifics, expect 2 hours at Athens airport, less than 1 hour in the air, and a few minutes at Crete’s airport. In contrast, the ferry can last anywhere from 8 hours to 12 hours on a slow overnight ferry.

Hence, a flight to Crete is a no-brainer if you’re short on time. You’ll travel for fewer hours and thus maximize your time on the island. That means you can make the most of your itinerary on the island, even if you’re there for a few days.

Ferry Prices from Athens to Crete are Stable and Usually Lower than Flight Fares 

Generally, the ferry from Athens to Crete costs less than choosing the plane. However, that’s not necessarily the case, especially if you book well in advance. 

For example, you could find a summer plane ticket at just €50 if you buy it in fall or winter. If you decide not to book and get a ferry instead, you could pay around the same for a regular seat and about double (if not more) for a cabin. 

Of course, for an average estimate, expect the flight ticket to range from €50 to €200 plus, while the ferry crossing will usually be between €40 to €60.

As for the lowest price, you can find a boat ticket in the €20-50 range for the 11-hour-long overnight ferry. This basic ticket will get you a standard seat, but you can upgrade to a cabin, which will cost around €160. 

As you know, the earlier you book a ticket, the better the deal, while prices are higher for June to September.

And although the above applies to both ferries and planes, sea crossing fares are relatively stable and don’t climb as fast or as high. If you travel from Athens to Crete in the next few days, a ferry is the logical option. 

The Port and the Airport are 50 Minutes Away by Car, so Consider your Starting Point in Athens 

A significant factor to consider when evaluating your options is where in Athens you start your journey to Crete. If you’re landing by air in the Greek capital and want to get to Crete the same day, flying is the way to go. 

Instead, if you want to spend a few nights in Athens, the ferry port of Piraeus may be closer and easier to reach. Then, the choice boils down to how fast you want to arrive in Crete and how much you’re willing to spend.

The port of Rafina, which is closer to the airport, serves mainly the Cyclades islands. So head that way only if you want to spend a few nights before Crete in other Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, or Naxos.

Alternatively, you can reach Piraeus port within 30-45 minutes from the city center. If you take the bus there, you’ll find the kiosk to purchase or print your ticket right in front of the bus station.

To avoid that hustle and head straight into the boat, buy your ticket online through Ferryhopper. 

The price will be the same whether you book on the website or at the port, so I’d advise you to make a reservation online if you know your departure date.

Finally, remember to print your boarding pass since you’re required by law to hold it before hopping on a ferry.

Flights are More Frequent than Ferry Connections

Surprisingly, there usually are more flights than ferries between Athens and Crete. For example, on any given day in summer, you will find at least five direct flights from Athens to Chania and five more for Heraklion.

Compare that with the three or four direct boats from Piraeus to Chania or Heraklion, and you see the difference. 

In winter, the gap is even more significant, with airlines usually sticking to the same flight number while ferry companies are at least halving their itinerary.

In short, this shows that locals prefer traveling to the mainland by air, so consider this fact when choosing.

If you’re wondering which companies you can use, Aegean and Sky Express are two airlines with consistent flights to Chania and Heraklion daily.

Ferry Companies are More Generous with Baggage Allowances

If there is a big caveat with Athens to Crete flights, that boils down to the baggage constraints.

If you book a standard ticket, you can only bring carry-on baggage plus a small item that fits below your seat. You must pay extra to check a big suitcase.

On the other hand, Greek ferries offer a generous baggage allowance that sometimes looks limitless. After all, you can bring your car on every boat other than the high-speed ferry from Athens to Crete.

Chania and Heraklion will Always be your Landing Points in Crete

Whether you travel by air or sea, you can only reach two towns from Athens to Crete: Chania or Heraklion.

Although the difference in flight time between the two options is negligible, if you go by ferry, expect to stay on board for one more hour to reach Heraklion.  Strangely, the pricing is usually better if you choose to go to Heraklion instead of Chania.

If you’re wondering why, I’d guess there is more demand among visitors for the picturesque town of Chania than for the capital of Crete.

No matter where you land on the island, remember that getting from Chania to Heraklion or the reverse is relatively easy. You could even land in one town and depart from the other. 

Overnight Ferry Crossings from Athens to Crete could Save you a Night’s Worth of Accommodation 

If you visit Greece and Crete on a tight budget, catching an overnight ferry from Athens makes sense.

You’ll have to compromise some comfort since you’ll be sitting upright, but you’ll save a ton. Of course, you could rent a cabin instead, a great option if your wallet allows it.

Verdict…
How to get from Athens to Crete: By Boat or By Plane

If you ask me, the best way to get from Athens to Crete is by plane. It’s fast, reliable, and accessible.

On the other hand, picking the ferry is wiser if you have time to spare, are on a tight budget, or want a sample of the Greek ferry experience.

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More resources to enhance your Crete adventure

Start by checking out my guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets. If you prefer, you can purchase one of the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.

When it’s time to plan, explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, and be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches. If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion, Rethymnon, Lasithi, and Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.

Suggested accommodation in Crete

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these places to stay:

• Heraklion: Galaxy Hotel.
• Chania: Porto Antico.
• Rethymnon: Archipelagos Hotel.
• Agios Nikolaos: Hotel Port 7.

Pin this Guide to Ferry and Plane Travel from Athens to Crete!