Santorini's ferries leave from Athinios, the working port cut into the caldera cliffs a good twenty-minute drive south of Fira, not the postcard harbour most visitors photograph. Rafina, at the other end, sits on Attica's east coast, a much shorter and easier run from central Athens and the airport than the crowds and queues of Piraeus. In between lies open Aegean water, so this is a proper long-haul crossing rather than a short island hop, and it suits travellers who would rather sail direct into the mainland side of Athens than backtrack through Piraeus after a stay on Santorini.
This is a low-frequency link rather than a route with sailings scattered through the day, so it's worth building your travel plans around the single departure rather than assuming you can chase a later boat if you miss the first. Check the schedule box above for the confirmed sailing time on your travel date, since it can shift slightly between months.
Useful Resources for Your Greek Island Trip
- Find accommodation in Greece – hotels, apartments and villas on Booking.com
- Book tours and activities in Greece via Viator
- Find guided experiences and day trips via GetYourGuide
- Compare car hire prices in Greece via DiscoverCars
Exploring Athens?
If you have time before or after your ferry, there is plenty to see near the capital. Browse our complete guide to the best day trips from Athens – from ancient ruins and mountain villages to coastal escapes and island hops.