If you are looking for a relaxing and scenic way to explore the Greek islands, taking a ferry from Santorini to Paros is a great option. Santorini and Paros are two of the most popular destinations in the Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea. Santorini is famous for its stunning caldera views, whitewashed villages, and volcanic beaches, while Paros offers a charming mix of traditional culture, natural beauty, and lively nightlife.
By catching a ferry from Santorini to Paros, you can enjoy the best of both worlds and discover the diversity and charm of the Greek islands. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the ferry service between Santorini and Paros, including how to book your tickets, how to prepare for the journey, and how to navigate the routes and timetables. Whether you are looking for a fast or a conventional ferry, a cheap or a luxurious ride, a reserved seat or a lounge, we will help you find the best option for your travel needs and preferences.
Understanding the Ferry Service Between Santorini and Paros
Ferry Operators and Their Reputation
There are five ferry operators that offer services between Santorini and Paros: Seajets, Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines, Fast Ferries, and Golden Star Ferries. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your travel preferences and budget. Here is a brief overview of each operator and their reputation:
- Seajets: Seajets is one of the largest and most popular ferry operators in Greece, with a fleet of high-speed vessels that can reach Paros from Santorini in less than two hours. Seajets is known for its reliability, comfort, and safety, as well as its frequent sailings and competitive prices. However, some travelers may find Seajets ferries too crowded or noisy, especially during peak season. Seajets also has a strict cancellation policy and charges extra fees for luggage and pets.
- Blue Star Ferries: Blue Star Ferries is the only operator that runs conventional ferries between Santorini and Paros all year round. Blue Star Ferries offers a more relaxed and spacious travel experience, with amenities such as restaurants, bars, lounges, and cabins. Blue Star Ferries is also more flexible and affordable than Seajets, with lower fares, free luggage allowance, and generous cancellation policy. However, Blue Star Ferries takes longer to reach Paros from Santorini, with an average duration of three hours and 15 minutes. Blue Star Ferries also has fewer sailings than Seajets, especially in the winter months.
- Minoan Lines: Minoan Lines is another operator that provides high-speed ferries between Santorini and Paros, with a travel time of about one hour and 45 minutes. Minoan Lines is a reputable and modern company, with a fleet of new and comfortable vessels that offer amenities such as air-conditioned seats, snack bars, and TVs. Minoan Lines also has a loyal customer base and a good customer service. However, Minoan Lines has a limited schedule, with only three weekly sailings between Santorini and Paros. Minoan Lines also has higher fares than Seajets and Blue Star Ferries, and charges extra fees for luggage and pets.
- Fast Ferries: Fast Ferries is a relatively new operator that runs high-speed ferries between Santorini and Paros, with a travel time of about one hour and 25 minutes. Fast Ferries is a low-cost and efficient company, with a fleet of small and fast vessels that offer basic amenities such as air-conditioned seats and a snack bar. Fast Ferries also has a simple and easy booking process, and a friendly and helpful staff. However, Fast Ferries has a limited capacity, which means that tickets may sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Fast Ferries also has a strict cancellation policy and charges extra fees for luggage and pets.
- Golden Star Ferries: Golden Star Ferries is another operator that runs high-speed ferries between Santorini and Paros, with a travel time of about two hours and 10 minutes. Golden Star Ferries is a quality and reliable company, with a fleet of spacious and luxurious vessels that offer amenities such as restaurants, bars, lounges, and cabins. Golden Star Ferries also has a frequent and flexible schedule, with up to seven weekly sailings between Santorini and Paros. However, Golden Star Ferries has higher fares than Seajets and Blue Star Ferries, and charges extra fees for luggage and pets.
Schedules and Frequency
The ferry schedules and frequency between Santorini and Paros vary depending on the season, the operator, and the type of ferry. In general, there are more ferry crossings in the summer months, when the demand is higher, and fewer crossings in the winter months, when the weather is less favorable. The table below shows the average number of weekly sailings, the first and last departure times, and the average duration for each operator and type of ferry:
| Operator | Type of ferry | Weekly sailings | First departure | Last departure | Average duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seajets | High-speed | 17 | 06:45 | 15:30 | 1h 45m |
| Blue Star Ferries | Conventional | 14 | 06:45 | 15:30 | 3h 15m |
| Minoan Lines | High-speed | 3 | 06:45 | 15:30 | 1h 45m |
| Fast Ferries | High-speed | 4 | 06:45 | 15:30 | 1h 25m |
| Golden Star Ferries | High-speed | 7 | 06:45 | 15:30 | 2h 10m |
Varieties of Ferries: High-Speed vs. Conventional
There are two main varieties of ferries that operate between Santorini and Paros: high-speed and conventional. High-speed ferries are faster, smaller, and more expensive than conventional ferries, while conventional ferries are slower, larger, and cheaper than high-speed ferries. Each variety of ferry has its own pros and cons, depending on your travel preferences and budget. Here is a brief comparison of the two varieties of ferries:
- High-speed ferries: High-speed ferries are ideal for travelers who want to save time and reach Paros from Santorini in less than two hours. High-speed ferries are also more convenient and frequent, as they operate with daily crossings throughout the year. However, high-speed ferries are more expensive than conventional ferries, as they have higher fares and extra fees for luggage and pets. High-speed ferries are also less comfortable and spacious than conventional ferries, as they have fewer amenities and seating options. High-speed ferries are also more affected by weather conditions, which may cause delays or cancellations.
- Conventional ferries: Conventional ferries are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a more relaxed and scenic journey, and reach Paros from Santorini in about three hours. Conventional ferries are also more affordable and flexible than high-speed ferries, as they have lower fares, free luggage allowance, and generous cancellation policy. Conventional ferries are also more comfortable and spacious than high-speed ferries, as they have more amenities and seating options, such as restaurants, bars, lounges, and cabins. However, conventional ferries are slower than high-speed ferries, as they take longer to reach Paros from Santorini. Conventional ferries are also less convenient and frequent than high-speed ferries, as they operate with fewer crossings, especially in the winter months.
Booking Your Ferry Tickets
Ways to Purchase Your Tickets
There are different ways to purchase your ferry tickets from Santorini to Paros, depending on your preference and convenience. You can book your tickets online, by phone, or in person at the port or at a travel agency. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of each method:
- Online: Booking your tickets online is the easiest and fastest way to secure your seat and get the best prices and offers. You can use a reliable and user-friendly website like Ferryhopper to compare ferry timetables, companies and prices, and book your tickets in advance with no hidden fees. You can also choose between e-tickets, which you can print at home or show on your phone, or paper tickets, which you can collect at the port or have them delivered to your address. However, booking online may require a credit card or a PayPal account, and some websites may charge a booking fee or a cancellation fee.
- Phone: Booking your tickets by phone is another option, especially if you prefer to speak to a customer service representative and get more information or assistance. You can call the ferry company directly or use a travel agency to book your tickets. You can also pay by credit card or cash on delivery. However, booking by phone may be more time-consuming and less convenient than booking online, as you may have to wait on hold, deal with language barriers, or confirm your reservation by email or fax. You may also have to collect your tickets at the port or at a travel agency, or pay extra for delivery.
- In person: Booking your tickets in person is another option, especially if you are already in Santorini or Paros and want to buy your tickets at the last minute. You can visit the port or a travel agency and buy your tickets directly from the ticket office or the kiosk. You can also pay by cash or credit card. However, booking in person may be more risky and expensive than booking online or by phone, as you may not find availability or the best prices, especially during peak season or holidays. You may also have to queue or deal with crowds at the port or the agency.
Comparing Costs and Finding Deals
The cost of your ferry ticket from Santorini to Paros depends on several factors, such as the type of ferry, the type of seat, the season, the demand, and the availability of discounts or offers. In general, conventional ferries are cheaper than high-speed ferries, and standard seats are cheaper than business or VIP seats. The cost also varies depending on the ferry company, as each one has its own pricing policy and fee structure. For example, some companies may charge extra fees for luggage or pets, while others may offer free luggage allowance or generous cancellation policy. The cost also changes depending on the season, as ferry tickets tend to be more expensive in the summer months, when the demand is higher, and cheaper in the winter months, when the weather is less favorable. The cost also depends on the availability of discounts or offers, which may vary from one ferry operator to another. For example, some companies may offer discounts to certain passenger categories, such as children, students, or people with disabilities, while others may offer special deals or promotions for early bookings, round trips, or group bookings.
To compare costs and find the best deals for your ferry ticket from Santorini to Paros, you can use a website like Ferryhopper, which allows you to search and compare all the available options in one place. You can also filter your results by price, duration, type of ferry, type of seat, or ferry company. You can also see the current offers and discounts for each ferry operator, and book your ticket at the same price as the ferry company. Alternatively, you can use a website like Direct Ferries or Zas Ferries, which offer similar features and services. However, some websites may charge a booking fee or a cancellation fee, so make sure to read the terms and conditions before booking your ticket.
Understanding Ticket Types and Classes
When booking your ferry ticket from Santorini to Paros, you need to understand the different types and classes of tickets, as they affect your comfort, convenience, and cost. There are two main types of tickets: e-tickets and paper tickets. E-tickets are electronic tickets that you can print at home or show on your phone, while paper tickets are physical tickets that you need to collect at the port or have them delivered to your address. E-tickets are more convenient and eco-friendly than paper tickets, as they save you time and hassle, and reduce paper waste. However, not all ferry operators offer e-tickets, and some may require you to exchange your e-ticket for a boarding pass at the port. Paper tickets are more traditional and reliable than e-tickets, as they do not depend on internet access or battery life. However, paper tickets are more cumbersome and costly than e-tickets, as they require you to pick them up or pay for delivery, and may get lost or damaged.
There are also different classes of tickets, depending on the type of ferry and the type of seat. There are two main types of ferries: high-speed and conventional. High-speed ferries are faster, smaller, and more expensive than conventional ferries, while conventional ferries are slower, larger, and cheaper than high-speed ferries. Each type of ferry has its own pros and cons, depending on your travel preferences and budget. There are also different types of seats, depending on the level of comfort and service. There are three main types of seats: standard, business, and VIP. Standard seats are the most basic and affordable seats, usually arranged in rows or benches, with or without a table. Business seats are more comfortable and spacious seats, usually arranged in a lounge or a cabin, with more amenities and services. VIP seats are the most luxurious and exclusive seats, usually located in a separate area or a private cabin, with the best amenities and services. The type and class of ticket affect your travel experience and your ticket price, so make sure to choose the one that suits your needs and expectations.
Preparing for the Journey
Check-in and Boarding Procedures
Before you embark on your ferry journey from Santorini to Paros, you need to follow some simple check-in and boarding procedures to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. Here are some tips and steps to follow:
- Make sure you have a valid ticket, either an e-ticket or a paper ticket, for the ferry you have booked. If you have an e-ticket, you can print it at home or show it on your phone. If you have a paper ticket, you need to collect it at the port or have it delivered to your address.
- Arrive at the port of Santorini, also known as Athinios Port, at least one hour before the departure time of your ferry. The port is located at the base of steep cliffs and can accommodate both ferry and cruise ship traffic. You can reach the port by bus, taxi, or rental car from the main towns of Santorini, such as Fira and Oia.
- Find the ticket office or the kiosk of the ferry company you have booked with and check in with your ticket and your ID or passport. You may also need to exchange your e-ticket for a boarding pass at the port. The staff will direct you to the boarding area and the luggage racks, where you can leave your suitcases or any other bulky items.
- Board the ferry with your boarding pass and your hand luggage and find your seat or your cabin, depending on the type and class of ticket you have chosen. You can also explore the ferry and enjoy the amenities and services on board, such as restaurants, bars, lounges, and shops.
- Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Aegean Sea and the Cyclades islands as you sail from Santorini to Paros. The ferry will stop at Naxos before reaching Paros, where you can disembark and collect your luggage from the racks.
Luggage Regulations and Tips
When traveling by ferry from Santorini to Paros, you need to be aware of the luggage regulations and tips that apply to your trip. Here are some important points to consider:
- Each ticket holder is allowed to carry up to 40 kg or 0.5 cubic meters of luggage each. Every ship has a dedicated area for bulky items, where passengers can leave their suitcases or any other object. If you don’t feel comfortable with being away from your belongings, you can keep your luggage next to you on board.
- Some ferry companies may charge extra fees for luggage or pets, while others may offer free luggage allowance or generous cancellation policy. For example, Blue Star Ferries offers a free luggage allowance of 50 kg per passenger, while Seajets charges €2 per luggage and €20 per pet.
- It is advisable to pack light and smart, and avoid bringing unnecessary or valuable items with you. You should also label your luggage with your name and contact details, and lock it securely. You should also keep your ticket, ID, passport, and money with you at all times.
- If you have special needs or requirements regarding your luggage, such as oversized, fragile, or medical items, you should contact the ferry company in advance and inform them about your situation. They may be able to provide you with special assistance or arrangements. li>
Amenities and Accommodations on Board
Depending on the type of ferry and the type of seat you choose, you can enjoy different amenities and accommodations on board the ferry from Santorini to Paros. Here are some examples of what you can expect:
- High-speed ferries are faster, smaller, and more expensive than conventional ferries, while conventional ferries are slower, larger, and cheaper than high-speed ferries. Each type of ferry has its own pros and cons, depending on your travel preferences and budget. li>
- Standard seats are the most basic and affordable seats, usually arranged in rows or benches, with or without a table. Business seats are more comfortable and spacious seats, usually arranged in a lounge or a cabin, with more amenities and services. VIP seats are the most luxurious and exclusive seats, usually located in a separate area or a private cabin, with the best amenities and services. The type and class of seat affect your comfort, convenience, and cost. li>
- Most ferries offer amenities and services such as restaurants, bars, lounges, shops, TVs, Wi-Fi, and toilets. Some ferries may also offer cabins, reclining seats, air-conditioned seatsMAINTENANTJECOMMENCEPreparing for the JourneyBefore you embark on your ferry journey from Santorini to Paros, you need to prepare yourself and your belongings, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips and recommendations on how to get ready for your ferry adventure:
- Check the weather and the sea conditions: The weather and the sea conditions can affect your ferry journey, as they may cause delays, cancellations, or discomfort. To avoid unpleasant surprises, you should check the weather and the sea conditions before you book your ticket and before you depart. You can use a website like Windfinder or Poseidon System to see the wind speed, the wave height, and the temperature for your route. You can also contact the ferry company or the port authority to confirm the status of your ferry. If the weather or the sea conditions are unfavorable, you may want to choose a different date, time, or type of ferry, or cancel your trip altogether.
- Pack your essentials and your luggage: Depending on the duration and the type of your ferry journey, you may need to pack different items and luggage. For a short and fast ferry ride, you may only need a small backpack or a handbag, with some essentials such as your passport, your ticket, your phone, your charger, your headphones, your sunglasses, your sunscreen, your hat, your water bottle, and your snacks. For a longer and slower ferry ride, you may need a larger suitcase or a backpack, with some extra items such as your clothes, your toiletries, your towel, your book, your laptop, your pillow, and your blanket. You should also pack some warm and comfortable clothes, as the ferry may be cold or windy. You should also pack some medication, such as motion sickness pills, painkillers, or antihistamines, in case you feel unwell during the journey.
- Arrive at the port early and check-in: To avoid missing your ferry or rushing at the last minute, you should arrive at the port at least one hour before your departure time, or even earlier if you have a lot of luggage or a vehicle. You should also check-in at the ticket office or the kiosk, and collect your boarding pass if you have an e-ticket. You should also check the departure gate and the boarding time for your ferry, and follow the instructions and the announcements of the staff. You should also keep an eye on your belongings and your documents, and avoid leaving them unattended or losing them.
