Heraklion is the principal city of Greece’s largest island, Crete. The island has a marvellous 1,000 kilometre-long shoreline with numerous golden sandy beaches. It also boasts rolling hills, imposing mountains and beautiful landscapes. Heraklion is halfway along Crete’s north coast and ferries depart from Heraklion Port.

The ferry port in Heraklion is located near the town. It is close to tourist facilities such as accommodation establishments, cafés, bars, travel agents and Heraklion intercity bus station. The port features a car park which provides long and short term parking. Hostels ranging up to four star hotels make up the accommodation options in Heraklion Town.

Heraklion to Piraeus ferry services are provided daily, in the summer season, by several ferry companies including Minoan Lines and Anek Lines. Crossing time is about nine hours. SuperFast Ferries offer a rapid crossing that takes around 6 hours, 30 minutes. Minoan Lines and Anek Lines are both companies that have been around for more than 30 years.

Minoan Lines and Anek Lines are leading Greek ferry providers with modern fleets that provide ample passenger comforts and safety. SuperFast Ferries is a more recent newcomer to the passenger ferry business but has quickly built a reputation as a company with punctual and comfortable services.

Ferries from Heraklion to Piraeus arrive at Piraeus Port. Piraeus is Athens’ main port and has been since ancient times. Piraeus is the largest passenger ferry port in Greece, and the closest of Athens’ three ports to the city centre. Piraeus is about 10kms southwest of Athens and is connected to Athens’ city centre by metro and bus.

Services at Piraeus Ferry Port include ATMs, banks, bureaux de change, a left-luggage office, bars, restaurants, car rental and a taxi rank. Long and short term, as well as disabled parking is available at the port. Road E65 goes to Athens, where there is access to motorways that lead to many Greek destinations.

Tags: ANEK Lines, Athens, Crete, Greece, Heraklion, Minoan Lines, Piraeus, Piraeus Port