Ferry from Chios to Vathy (Samos)

Chios to Vathy on Samos takes around three and a half hours with Blue Star Ferries on the Diagoras. Most sailings run direct down the eastern Aegean, close to the Turkish coast for much of the way. It is a conventional car ferry with indoor seating, a restaurant and open deck.

Vathy, officially Samos Town, is the capital and main port of Samos, set at the head of a deep sheltered bay that gives the town its name. It is a working town with shopping streets, administration and a busy harbourfront rather than a resort atmosphere, and the archaeological museum is one of the better ones in the eastern Aegean. It also sits close to Kusadasi on the Turkish coast, with seasonal crossings.

The route runs around three times a week, giving reasonable flexibility if you plan ahead. Current timetable and fares are shown below. From Vathy there are onward ferries south to Patmos and the Dodecanese, and the island's airport handles mainland and some international flights.

Chios to Vathy Ferry Fares

Weekly Chios to Vathy Ferry Schedule

The repeating pattern behind the dated timetable, without dates. Each row is one scheduled departure and the days it runs.

Hiring a car

Can you rent a car in Chios?

Yes, and the ferry dock sits right in Chios Town itself, with rental offices a short walk away or at the airport 3-4km south. A car makes sense if you want to reach the Mastic villages in the south or Kambos's walled citrus groves, since buses run less frequently outside town; compare prices at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Chios to Vathy between 24 August 2026 and 6 September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Chios to Vathy ferry

• Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas at the stern; the rules are enforced more strictly on newer vessels.
• On conventional ferries, the centre of the vessel at the waterline is the most stable point; if you feel unwell, move there and focus on the horizon.
• In July, the meltemi typically produces its strongest conditions in the open Cyclades, particularly between Mykonos, Paros, and Ios; plan shorter hops in this area.
• On a rough crossing, the best strategy is to fix your gaze on the horizon, breathe slowly, and avoid reading or looking at screens.
• Economy deck class is the cheapest option and perfectly comfortable on short crossings – you have access to indoor seating, outside decks, and all onboard facilities.

Plan a journey

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