Ferry from Naxos (Chora) to Athens (Rafina)

Rafina sits on the eastern shoulder of Attica, a shorter and usually calmer run out of the capital than the main port, which makes it a natural choice if you have just landed at the airport or want to skip the crowds and traffic around Piraeus. Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, and its ferry quay lies right against the old town, a short stroll from the harbourfront tavernas and the Portara, so you step off the boat straight into island life rather than a taxi queue.

Sailings run daily through the season, with several crossings a day at the height of summer and a quieter pattern either side of it. Because operators file each part of the season in stages rather than publishing a fixed year in advance, check the schedule box above for the latest confirmed dates and departure times before you plan a connection.

Naxos to Rafina Ferry Fares

Weekly Naxos to Rafina 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 at Rafina port?

Yes, several international agencies including Sixt, Avis and Budget have desks at the port, roughly 25km from Athens airport by road. It's a useful pickup point if you're collecting a car before driving onward, rather than sailing, or heading into Athens after a ferry from the islands. Compare prices at Discover Cars.

Is it worth hiring a car on Naxos?

Yes, it is worth it. Naxos is the largest Cycladic island, and its best beaches and mountain villages, Apollonas, Halki, the Tragaea, are 30 to 45 minutes' drive from Naxos Town. Rental desks sit right at the ferry quay, a one-minute walk from the bus terminal. Buses cover the main coast road, but a car gets you into the interior. Compare local suppliers at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Naxos to Rafina between 5 September 2026 and 18 September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Naxos to Rafina ferry

• Expect a short walk into town – Naxos port sits right at the edge of Chora, with shops, cafés and the Portara landmark only a few minutes away, so you will not need a taxi if your accommodation is central.
• Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure and confirm your departure gate on the day, since Naxos is one of the busiest Cycladic ports, with several operators and vessels often docked at once.
• If you are catching the Express Skopelitis local ferry to the Small Cyclades, it usually berths away from the main quay used by Blue Star and the high-speed ferries, so check where it is tied up when you arrive.
• Washing clothes at island laundries (found on almost every inhabited island) means you can travel with less; a 3–4 day supply of clothing is usually enough.
• Ferries from Rafina, Athens's eastern port, connect to the Cyclades via a route that is closer to Athens International Airport than Piraeus. The city of Athens itself is easily reached, with the Acropolis, the Plaka district, and the National Archaeological Museum among the essential sights before or after your journey.

Plan a journey

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