Ios to Naxos Ferry
Ios to Naxos — At a Glance
- Season: Year-round, with reduced service in winter.
- Frequency: Typically 1 ferry per day in winter, increasing to several ferries per day (4 daily) in summer.
- Sailing days: Daily service.
- Journey time: 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Operators: Seajets, Golden Star Ferries.
- Tickets from: €14 – €17 per person.
The Ios to Naxos ferry is a short hop between two of the Cyclades’ most rewarding islands — less than two hours of open sea separating the party-famous shores of Ios from the varied pleasures of Naxos. Whether you are island-hopping in high summer or travelling in the quieter shoulder months, this route gives you a reliable connection with minimal fuss.
Service runs throughout the year, though winter timetables are slimmer with around 1 departure per day. Come summer, frequencies climb to 4 ferries daily on average, with the peak months of June–August seeing up to 5 sailings a day.
Monthly Schedule Overview
Here is a month-by-month overview of ferry service from Ios to Naxos:
| Month | Available | Avg. Ferries/Day |
|---|---|---|
| January | No | – |
| February | Yes | 1.0 |
| March | Yes | 1.0 |
| April | Yes | 1.1 (1–2) |
| May | Yes | 2.2 (1–4) |
| June | Yes | 3.8 (3–5) |
| July | Yes | 3.8 (3–5) |
| August | Yes | 3.9 (3–5) |
| September | Yes | 3.7 (2–5) |
| October | Yes | 2.1 (1–3) |
| November | No | – |
| December | No | – |
Ferry Companies
Two operators run the Ios–Naxos route, giving you a choice when it comes to booking:
- Seajets
- Golden Star Ferries – approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
Tips for the Ios–Naxos Ferry
- A portable power bank is one of the most useful things to carry – reliable mains power is not guaranteed on any vessel.
- Gather your belongings and move towards the appropriate exit before the vessel docks rather than scrambling at the last minute.
- Once you arrive in Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, the giant marble Portara gateway standing on a small islet at the entrance to the harbour is an unmissable landmark. The island offers the full range of Greek island experiences: long sandy beaches, mountain villages, ancient ruins, and a fertile interior producing excellent local cheeses and wines.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do ferries run from Ios to Naxos?
In winter, expect around 1 sailing per day. Frequency picks up significantly through spring and peaks in summer at 4 ferries daily. Service is available year-round.
How long is the ferry from Ios to Naxos?
The crossing takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes. Actual journey time may vary slightly depending on the operator and vessel.
How much does the Ios to Naxos ferry cost?
Standard tickets start from €14 per person. Depending on the operator, seat class, and time of year, prices can reach €17.
Which ferry companies operate the Ios–Naxos route?
The route is served by Seajets, Golden Star Ferries.