Ferry from Athens to Crete Question

[voula_slat]

I might be going to Crete this summer and I am thinking about taking the overnight ferry from Piraeus instead of flying. I’ve never taken a long ferry ride in Greece before, so I’d love some advice from people who’ve done it.

Is it worth booking a cabin, or are the airplane-style seats comfortable enough for a night crossing? I’ve heard mixed things. Also, how early should I arrive at the port—especially if I’m traveling as a foot passenger?

I’m also curious about which ferry company people prefer—Anek, Blue Star, Minoan? Are there big differences in comfort, cleanliness, or punctuality?

I’ll be heading to either Heraklion or Chania, still deciding. If you’ve done both routes, is one better than the other in terms of views, schedule, or overall experience?

 

[k_tsoukalas]

I’ve done the overnight ferry from Piraeus to Crete a few times and personally love it—it feels like part of the adventure! I highly recommend booking a cabin if your budget allows. The airplane-style seats are okay for short naps but not great for a full night's rest, especially if the ferry is crowded or noisy. A private cabin makes the trip much more relaxing.

As a foot passenger, aim to arrive at least an hour before departure, maybe earlier in peak summer months. The port can be hectic and signage isn’t always clear.

As for ferry companies, I’ve had good experiences with both Blue Star and Minoan. Minoan tends to feel a bit more modern and polished, but it can vary depending on the specific ship.

 

[cretarentcarrental]

Once you arrive in Crete, you’ll need a dependable car hire. Cretarent makes the transition simple with airport pickups and reliable vehicles, so you can start exploring right after your ferry or flight.