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Santorini to Crete

Santorini to Crete in October. Can it be done? Have seven days, six counting Athens. Would like to go to both islands. The ferry or plane that goes from Thira to Iraklion has proved illusive. Help.

Joe
Olympia

Posted by
162 posts

In July 2006 I took the high speed ferry from Santorini to Crete, it took about three hours, maybe a little less (can't remember) I had trouble figuring out the ferry schedules before I left, so I did all my booking for the Greek ferries when I got to Greece. What do you mean that the ferry from Thira to Iraklion has proved illusive?

I do know that the high speed ferry is frequent, but does not travel during high winds which chops the sea. This might happen more frequently in October.

Posted by
32352 posts

Joe,

The Greek Islands tend to get very "quiet" in the off season, so it would probably be a good idea to pre-book a Hotel room (some may not be operating in October?). Some Ferries may have reduced runs at that time of year also.

For the trip from Santorini to Crete, you might have a look at Hellenic Seaways, Flying Cat 4. I believe they have a boat departing Santorini at 17:45, arriving Heraklion at 19:25 (be sure to verify, as that might not be the case in October).

Also have a look at Sea Jets Superjet Catamaran as it appears they depart Santorini at 18:00, arriving Heraklion at 20:10.

One note that I found mentions that "You may try to book, say in early May for June, and find that you get no sailings on the websites mentioned above. It does not mean there will be no ferries. It is because of the ridiculous way the ferry companies do not "open up" ticketing until a couple of weeks before the actual travel date!" Also, they also suggest that paying for "Business Class" is worth the extra cost, due to extra space and comfort.

Happy travels!

Posted by
2 posts

Hi Chris,

Thanx for your help. I completely understand the difficulty involved w/ reading Cyclades ferry schedules.

Finding a ferry from Santorini to Crete in October has proven illusive because I haven' been able to find one.

Thanx for sharing your success. Hope renewed.

Sincerely,

Joe/Olympia

Posted by
3313 posts

It's a pretty major ferry route, so you shouldn't have trouble buying tickets when you're there. Just be prepared for late arrivals due to weather.