How to Get from Mykonos to Santorini
If Mykonos is the so-called party island of Greece, Santorini is known for its picturesque and often rugged volcanic landscape and its idyllic, nostalgic ambiance. So, can you think of a better destination to continue your holiday after your wild stay in vibrant Mykonos? If you do plan some island hopping, how will you travel from Mykonos to Santorini?
Ferry journeys from Mykonos to Santorini are the most popular way to travel between the two Cycladic islands. All ferries depart from the Mykonos New Port, located in Tourlos, 3km/1.9 miles from Mykonos Town and about 5km/3.1 miles from Mykonos Airport. Mykonos port taxis and private port transfers provide direct rides to the port from the passenger’s departure point. That being said, Mykonos taxis are few and typically can’t meet the demand. On the other hand, car rentals are one of the most favored transit options among Mykonos visitors, while buses are usually chosen by travelers looking for the most cost-effective alternative. Finally, water taxis (Mykonos SeaBus) offer connections from the Old Port in Mykonos Town to the New Port of Mykonos, being the most scenic way to travel from Mykonos Town to Mykonos Ferry Port.
Types of Ferries from Mykonos to Santorini
Conventional ferries and high-speed vessels run from Mykonos to Santorini and vice versa. While they feature significant differences in what they provide, both types of ferries offer reliable services, featuring numerous amenities and facilities to ensure pleasant and comfortable sailings. Moreover, all ferries are accessible, equipped with elevators, designated areas and restrooms for travelers with disabilities, and ramps, and meet the strictest safety requirements for a safe journey for all passengers. Additionally, they have self-service bars, offering drinks and snacks, while some of them also have restaurants, bars, and shops. Cabins are also available onboard some of the vessels, while lounges and business-class zones can also be found. Last but not least, all ferries from Mykonos to Santorini are air-conditioned, which is especially important considering the high temperatures in Greece during the summer. In fact, their interiors are rather chilly, requiring passengers to dress accordingly.
So, which should be your option for the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini? Should you travel with a conventional ferry or choose a high-speed vessel?
High-Speed Ferries
- Faster journeys
- Numbered seating
- Usually no cabins
- VIP zones and business-class lounges available
Conventional Ferries
- Lower fares
- Less affected by the weather and the waves*
- Typically have cabins
- Large open deck seating
* Thus, less likely to be cancelled or delayed due to weather conditions and more recommended for passengers who get easily seasick.
Mykonos to Santorini Ferry Time and Schedule
Ferry Route | First/Last Sailing | Frequency | Approximate Duration | Average Price |
Mykonos to Santorini | 09:50 am / 06:20 pm | Daily | 2 – 3h 15 min | €82-€89,20/$94,80-$103,10 |
The ferry journey from Mykonos to Santorini is a popular route. Indeed, there are eight crossings connecting the two islands daily. Overall, although the routes change from year to year, the changes are generally not significant. On the other hand, it comes as no surprise that sailings from Mykonos to Santorini during the off-peak tourist season and the winter months are scarcer. In any case, travelers are advised to book their tickets in advance. In that way, they can ensure availability and even find lower ferry tickets or special deals and discounts.
The crossing from Mykonos to Santorini lasts from 2 hours to 3 hours and 15 minutes. Its duration depends on several factors, such as the type of ferry, the vessel operating the route, the weather conditions, and the in-between stops. Routes are generally longer under bad weather conditions. Moreover, in-between stops also increase ferry travel time, especially during the summer months when passenger traffic is high and the boarding and disembarking process takes more time.
Mykonos New Port is well-organized, but it isn’t a large harbor. Thus, it often gets crowded when ferries arrive or before their departure. That’s why travelers are asked to be at Mykonos Ferry Port about one hour before their sailing, particularly if they need to board their vehicle on the ferry as well. Additionally, online tickets and web check-in are recommended to reduce boarding time. Conversely, if you have to collect your tickets from the port’s ticket counters and travel agencies, you should allow some extra time.
Fares and Tickets for Ferries from Mykonos to Santorini
There are various ticket options for the sailing from Mykonos to Santorini. Thus, you can opt for a standard or economy-class ticket, book a numbered seat or a seat in the lounge area, or a business-class ticket, etc. Moreover, tickets are pricier during the high tourist season than at other times, while each ferry company has its own fares and prices. Overall, a cheap ferry ticket from Mykonos to Santorini costs around €82-€89,20/$94,80-$103,10. Kids between 4 and 10 years of age typically pay lower fares, whereas younger kids travel for free. In any case, you should always check your ferry company’s policy.
Tip to Know: You should book your ticket online and use web check-in to speed up and simplify the boarding process.
Ferry Companies with Routes from Mykonos to Santorini
Hellenic Seaways
Seajets
Golden Star Ferries
Routes and Fares of Ferry Companies from Mykonos to Santorini
The ferry routes from Mykonos to Santorini are more frequent during the summer and less at other times. Moreover, their schedule changes from time to time, although not considerably. In any case, you can check the current timetable, but be sure to double-check your ferry company’s schedule close to your departure time:
Hellenic Seaways Ferries from Mykonos to Santorini
At 12:20 pm
Highspeed 4 connects Mykonos Ferry Port to Athinios Port in Santorini. It sails every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday at 12:20 pm and takes around 3 hours to reach Santorini. The route is operated by Highspeed 3 on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. There are no available routes on Wednesdays.
Fares and Prices
The cost of the crossing from Mykonos to Santorini is €82/$94,80 (for an economy-class ticket). A car ferry ticket is priced at €54/$62,40.
Golden Star Ferries from Mykonos to Santorini
At 09:50 am
Superexpress connects Mykonos to Santorini, sailing from Tourlos Port daily at 09:50 am. It takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to get to Mykonos.
Fares and Prices
A standard seat on the Superexpress is priced at €82,50/$94,90, while car ferry tickets cost €48/$55,20.
Seajets Ferries from Mykonos to Santorini
At 09:50 am
The Eurochampion Jet ferry sails daily from Tourlos Port, heading to Athinios Port in Santorini. It takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to get to Santorini.
At 09:50 am
The Super Jet and Super Jet 2 ferries share the route from Mykonos to Santorini, departing on different days. They reach Athinios Port after a 2-hour and 25-minute journey. The ferries can’t accommodate vehicles.
At 11:50 am
Supercat Jet travels daily from Mykonos to Santorini. The duration of the journey is 1 hour and 55 minutes, making it the fastest option. However, the ferry doesn’t carry vehicles.
At 12:20 pm
The Champions League Jet 1 and the Worldchampion Jet depart from Mykonos daily at 12:20 pm, heading to Santorini. The two ferries operate on the same route but on different days. Their travel time is around 2.5 hours. Please note that the ferry sails at 12:45 pm on Wednesdays.
At 06:20 pm
The Champion Jet 2 runs daily from Mykonos to Santorini. Its journey lasts 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Fares and Prices
A standard ticket for sailing with Seajets ferries costs between €82,20/$94,60 and €89,20/$103,10. Tickets for medium-sized vehicles are priced at €51/$58,70.
A Flight or a Ferry from Mykonos to Santorini?
A ferry from Mykonos to Santorini is the most preferred way to get between the two Cycladic islands. However, both Mykonos and Santorini have airports as well. So, what should you choose for your journey? Should you sail or fly from Mykonos to Santorini?
Air journeys are considered a more comfortable travel option than ferry routes. They are faster and offer a generally smoother travel experience. However, there aren’t direct flights from Mykonos to Santorini. Thus, if you want to fly from Mykonos to Santorini Airport, you’ll have to travel to Athens International Airport and then catch the flight from Athens to Santorini. Consequently, your journey will be time-consuming and rather tedious.
On the other hand, there are eight daily crossings from Mykonos to Santorini. The routes aren’t very time-consuming, as the two islands are located close to each other. Indeed, the Mykonos-to-Santorini ferry time ranges from around 2 to 3 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the chosen route. Plus, there are hardly any luggage restrictions. Therefore, you can carry your personal items without worrying about extra fees. Ferry routes are also a popular transit option, as they are considered affordable and offer scenic journeys. Many travelers greatly enjoy sailing, appreciating the seamless sea and port views, the sea breeze, and the relaxing moments spent on the deck under the Greek sun.
FAQs
How long is a ferry from Mykonos to Santorini?
Sailings from Mykonos to Santorini last around 2 hours to 3 hours and 15 minutes. Their duration ranges depending on the ferry operating the route, the intermediate stops, and the weather conditions.