Ferry from Sifnos (Kamares) to Ios

Sifnos and Ios sit at opposite ends of the western Cyclades, and the crossing between them runs across a good stretch of open Aegean water rather than hopping between sheltered channels. Ferries leave Sifnos from Kamares, a low-rise harbour town wrapped around a deep bay, with the island's capital, Apollonia, a short drive up into the hills behind it. On Ios you arrive at the port below Chora, where the old whitewashed town climbs a steep hillside above the water -- worth bearing in mind if you're carrying luggage, as it's uphill work from the quay. Because the route crosses exposed sea rather than staying in the lee of other islands, a stiff meltemi in July and August can make for a lively ride, so it's worth checking conditions if you're prone to seasickness. Exact departure dates and fares shift from year to year as operators file their schedules, so treat the panel above as the live word on what's actually running and use this page for the general shape of the crossing.

This is a route best suited to travellers island-hopping through the western Cyclades who want to link Sifnos's quieter, food-and-pottery pace with Ios's livelier beach-and-nightlife scene, or vice versa, without doubling back through Piraeus.

Sifnos to Ios Ferry Fares

Weekly Sifnos to Ios 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 Ios?

Yes. The port sits about 2km from Chora, with rental desks at both. A car isn't essential for the Chora to Mylopotas stretch, which is walkable and bus-served, but it's worth having to reach quieter spots like Manganari beach, roughly 19km to the south. Check current rates at Discover Cars.

Can you rent a car in Sifnos?

Yes, and it's worth having one. The ferry lands at Kamares, and the drive up the winding valley road to the capital, Apollonia, takes about ten minutes; most rental firms have desks at the port to match ferry arrivals. Sifnos's road network is compact and easy to navigate, so a car gets you around the hilltop villages and beaches without waiting on buses. Compare local suppliers at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Sifnos to Ios between 5 September 2026 and 18 September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Sifnos to Ios ferry

• Carry a smaller day bag separately from your main luggage: this holds your passport, wallet, phone, charger, sunscreen, and anything else you need during the crossing.
• If you are comparing ferry versus flying between islands, factor in port transfer times at each end – ferries are often more time-efficient for short hops.
• In Ios, the whitewashed Chora draws visitors with its narrow footpaths, windmills, and the climb to the Church of Panagia Gremiotissa for sweeping views across the Aegean. The island's beaches are among the finest in the Cyclades – Mylopotas, Manganari, and Magganari are the most celebrated – while Homer's reputed tomb lies on the northern hillside.

Plan a journey

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