Ferry from Chania (Souda) to Athens (Piraeus)

ANEK Lines runs the overnight crossing from Chania to Piraeus in around eight to nine and a quarter hours. It is one of the two main Crete to Athens routes, worked by large conventional ships with cabins, seating lounges, restaurants and vehicle decks. Note that the Chania ferry port is at Souda, a deep-water harbour several kilometres east of the old town, not the Venetian harbour itself.

Piraeus is the main port of Athens and the largest passenger port in the country. Crete ferries berth towards the eastern side of the harbour, and the metro terminus at Piraeus station runs directly into the centre of Athens, with buses to the airport from outside the port. The port is laid out across numbered gates E1 to E12, so it is worth checking which gate you are arriving at and leaving from.

Sailings run most nights of the week, with extra departures in summer, so this is a route you can plan around with some confidence. The current timetable and fares are shown in the table below. Overnight cabins sell out first in July and August, particularly for anyone taking a vehicle across.

Weekly Chania to Piraeus Ferry Schedule

What each ferry company has published for the four weeks from 13 November 2026 to 10 December 2026: the days it sails and its departure times from Chania.

Chania to Piraeus Ferry Fares

Hiring a car

Can you rent a car in Piraeus?

Yes, several agencies meet passengers directly at the ferry gates (E1 to E12), so there is no need to arrange transport into central Athens first. It suits travellers continuing on to the mainland rather than islanders, since central Athens is only 20 minutes away and has good metro and bus links. Compare local suppliers at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Chania to Piraeus between 13 November 2026 and 26 November 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Chania to Piraeus ferry

• If you are travelling overnight with a vehicle, you cannot access the car deck once the vessel is at sea; take everything you need from the car before departure.
• The rear vehicle ramp opens while the vessel is still manoeuvring; do not go down to the vehicle deck until the ferry is fully docked and the ramp is secure.
• Ferries from Piraeus depart from the main port of Athens, giving easy access to the Acropolis, the world-class Acropolis Museum, and the ancient Agora. The historic Plaka neighbourhood at the foot of the Acropolis hill, with its neoclassical lanes, Roman ruins, and traditional tavernas, is the most atmospheric place to spend time before or after your crossing.

Plan a journey

Search for a connection between any two Greek ports, including journeys that need a change.