Ferry from Patmos (Skala) to Athens (Piraeus)

Patmos to Piraeus is the main mainland link, run by Blue Star Ferries and Superfast Ferries with the Blue Star 2, Blue Star Patmos and Lefka Ori. Journey times range from about eight hours on the more direct sailings to a little over twelve on those with more calls. Overnight departures are common and cabins are worth booking in high season.

Piraeus is the port of Athens, a few kilometres southwest of the centre and the busiest passenger harbour in Europe. It is a sprawling port with gates numbered E1 to E12, so check where you are berthing before you disembark. The metro terminus at the head of the harbour runs directly into central Athens and connects onward to the airport line.

There are sailings most days through the summer, thinning to a few a week in winter. Current departures, durations and fares are shown in the table below, starting around €44. Patmos itself has no airport, so this crossing or a connection via Kos, Leros or Samos is the usual way to and from Athens.

Patmos to Piraeus Ferry Fares

Weekly Patmos to Piraeus 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 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.

Do you need a car in Patmos?

Not essential, but useful if you want to reach quieter beaches beyond Chora and Grikos at your own pace. Rental desks sit right at Skala port, and buses from the same stop run to Chora, Grikos and Kambos around six times a day, with taxis filling the gaps. Roads are well maintained and quiet, so driving is easy. Compare suppliers at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Patmos to Piraeus between 24 October 2026 and 6 November 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Patmos to Piraeus ferry

• Earplugs are essential for overnight ferry crossings – engines, announcements, and other passengers ensure the ambient noise level never fully drops.
• Card payments are accepted at most onboard bars and cafeterias on modern ferries; older vessels may be cash-only – have some euros in your pocket.
• The meltemi wind, a strong north-north-westerly, blows across the central and southern Aegean from roughly July through to early September.
• Some ports have a departure tax included in your ticket; others require a separate port fee paid at a booth before boarding – check your booking confirmation.
• 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.