Ferry from Schinoussa to Naxos (Chora)

Schinoussa to Naxos is the standard link out of the Small Cyclades, taking between roughly one hour twenty and one hour forty-five depending on the boat and the calls it makes. Blue Star Ferries runs the Blue Star Naxos on the bigger, faster version of the trip, while the small local Express Scopelitis takes the slower island-stopping route. The Scopelitis is a proper working boat, more bus than liner, and it is how most islanders travel.

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and its main port sits right in Naxos Town, with the Portara, the freestanding marble doorway of an unfinished Temple of Apollo, framing the harbour entrance. Behind the waterfront the Venetian Kastro climbs through a maze of lanes, and buses leave from near the quay for the beaches and the mountain villages inland. Ticket offices, banks, supermarkets and car hire are all within a few minutes' walk of where the ferry ties up.

Between the two operators there are one or two sailings on most days in season, which makes this the most dependable connection Schinoussa has. Current times, vessels and fares are listed in the timetable below. Naxos is the hub for the whole Small Cyclades group and the natural place to change for Piraeus, Paros, Mykonos or Santorini.

Schinoussa to Naxos Ferry Fares

Weekly Schinoussa 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.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Schinoussa to Naxos between 24 October 2026 and 6 November 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Schinoussa to Naxos ferry

• Standing at the bow for a short crossing gives you an unobstructed view and feels very different from sitting inside – worth it on a calm day.
• Disembarkation is fast on small short-hop ferries; station yourself near the exit before the vessel reaches the harbour to avoid being last off.
• 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

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