Ferry from Sitia (Crete) to Diafani (Karpathos)

Sitia to Diafani is one of the long eastern legs of the Crete to Dodecanese run, worked by Blue Star Ferries with the Blue Star Chios. The crossing takes close to five hours across open water off the eastern end of Crete, so it is a proper sea passage rather than a short hop. As a conventional ferry it carries vehicles as well as foot passengers, and there is plenty of deck space to sit out the journey.

Diafani is a small fishing village on the northeast coast of Karpathos, and it is one of the least developed ports in the Dodecanese. The harbour is tiny, backed by pine-covered hills, with a handful of tavernas facing the water. Most people arriving here are heading up to Olympos, the mountain village above the port that has held on to its traditional dress, dialect and windmills, reached either by the mountain road or on foot.

Sailings are sparse, running only a couple of times a fortnight, so this is a route to plan around rather than turn up for. The current timetable and fares are shown below. Diafani also has boat links round the coast to Karpathos Town, which is worth knowing if the direct ferry does not fall on a useful day.

Weekly Sitia to Diafani Ferry Schedule

What each ferry company has published for the four weeks from 13 November 2026 to 10 December 2026: the days it sails and its departure times from Sitia.

Sitia to Diafani Ferry Fares

Hiring a car

Do you need a car in Sitia?

Yes, a car is genuinely useful here. Sitia sits about 130km, roughly two hours' drive, east of Heraklion, on the quieter side of Crete. A limited KTEL bus reaches the palm forest at Vai (28km) in summer, but a car gives easier access to Toplou Monastery and Sitia's beaches. Rental offices operate in Sitia town and at the small local airport; compare prices at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Sitia to Diafani between 13 November 2026 and 26 November 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Sitia to Diafani ferry

• Medicines, including seasickness tablets and any prescription drugs, should always be in your day bag, not buried in hold luggage.
• Fresh air almost always helps with sea sickness – going outside on deck and looking at the horizon is more effective than staying in an enclosed saloon.
• If cabins are sold out, reserve an airline-style reclining seat rather than deck class – it is far more comfortable for a full night's crossing.
• If you arrive in port before your accommodation check-in time, most hotels will store your luggage and let you use the pool or common areas – ask when you book.
• If you have a cabin, the best strategy is to shower, eat an early dinner, and be in your berth by 23:00 to maximise sleep before an early arrival.

Plan a journey

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