Ferry from Santorini (Athinios) to Naxos (Chora)

The Santorini to Naxos ferry is one of the most rewarding short hops in the Cyclades, whisking you from the volcanic drama of Santorini’s caldera to the lush, sprawling greenery of Naxos in under two hours. It runs year-round, so whether you are visiting in the height of summer or looking for a quieter autumn crossing, you have options. Departures use Santorini's Athinios port — our Athinios port guide is worth a look before you travel if you haven't sailed from there before.

Throughout the year there are 6 ferries per day on average. In summer (June–August), this increases to 9 per day, while winter sees around 1 per day.

Santorini to Naxos Ferry Fares

Weekly Santorini to Naxos 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

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.

Is it worth hiring a car on Santorini?

Yes. The ferry port at Athinios sits about 7.5km below Fira up a steep, winding road; the bus takes about 25 minutes and a taxi costs many times the fare. A car lets you reach Oia, Akrotiri and the red and black beaches at your own pace without waiting for infrequent buses; rental desks operate near the port, and you can compare prices across local suppliers at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Santorini to Naxos between 9 September 2026 and 22 September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Santorini to Naxos ferry

• Arrive at Athinios port at least 45 minutes before departure – the switchback access road down the caldera cliff often backs up in summer, and boarding can start earlier than the printed departure time.
• If you're staying in Oia, note that no bus runs directly to or from Athinios port – you'll need to change at Fira, adding a ticket and a wait, so a taxi or pre-booked transfer is usually more practical.
• Collect paper tickets from the Nomikos or Dakoutros travel agency booths at the port as soon as you arrive, rather than waiting until boarding – queues build quickly as departure time approaches.
• If you're travelling by public bus, stow large luggage in the storage compartment underneath rather than carrying it aboard, as space inside is limited, especially on the busy Fira–Oia route.
• Once you arrive in Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, the giant marble Portara gateway standing on a small islet at the entrance to the harbour is an unmissable landmark. The island offers the full range of Greek island experiences: long sandy beaches, mountain villages, ancient ruins, and a fertile interior producing excellent local cheeses and wines.

Plan a journey

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