Piraeus to Ios Ferry
Piraeus to Ios — 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: 4 hours 5 minutes to 9 hours 5 minutes.
- Operators: Seajets, Zante Ferries.
- Tickets from: €36 – €36 per person.
Book Piraeus to Ios ferries in 2026 with up to 4 daily departures year-round. Journey from 4h 5m. Operators include Seajets, Zante Ferries.
The Piraeus to Ios ferry is one of the more rewarding crossings in the Cyclades, delivering you to an island that balances legendary nightlife with genuinely beautiful beaches and a pretty whitewashed Chora. Whether you are chasing the summer buzz or travelling in the quieter shoulder months, there is a sailing to suit your schedule.
Throughout the year there are 3 ferries per day on average. Come summer (June–August), that climbs to 4 departures daily, giving you real flexibility for planning your arrival. In winter, expect around 1 sailing per day.
Monthly Schedule Overview
Here is a month-by-month overview of ferry service from Piraeus to Ios:
| Month | Available | Avg. Ferries/Day |
|---|---|---|
| January | No | – |
| February | Yes | 1.4 (1–2) |
| March | Yes | 1.3 (1–2) |
| April | Yes | 1.5 (1–3) |
| May | Yes | 2.4 (1–5) |
| June | Yes | 4.2 (3–6) |
| July | Yes | 4.0 (3–5) |
| August | Yes | 4.0 (3–5) |
| September | Yes | 3.8 (2–5) |
| October | Yes | 1.6 (1–3) |
| November | No | – |
| December | No | – |
Ferry Companies
Two companies serve the Piraeus–Ios route, with very different journey times depending on which you choose:
- Seajets – approximately 4 hours 5 minutes
- Zante Ferries – approximately 9 hours 5 minutes
Tips for the Piraeus–Ios Ferry
- The Beaufort scale is used on all official Greek weather and maritime forecasts; it is worth familiarising yourself with what each force number means in practice before you travel.
- On routes operated by a single company, your energy is better spent choosing the right class of service rather than comparing operators – the decision has already been made for you.
- Card payments are accepted at most onboard bars and cafeterias on modern ferries; older vessels may be cash-only – keep some euros in your pocket to be safe.
- On routes served by high-speed catamarans, all seats are assigned – pick seats towards the centre of the vessel for the smoothest ride when the sea is lively.
- In Ios, the whitewashed Chora draws visitors with its narrow footpaths, windmills, and the climb to the Church of Panagia Gremiotissa for sweeping views across the Aegean. The island’s beaches are among the finest in the Cyclades – Mylopotas, Manganari, and Magganari are the most celebrated – while Homer’s reputed tomb lies on the northern hillside.
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
More to do near Athens
If you have time before 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do ferries run from Piraeus to Ios?
Ferries run daily throughout the year. In summer, you can expect up to 4 departures per day, making it easy to find a time that suits your plans. In winter, service drops to around 1 sailing daily.
How long is the ferry from Piraeus to Ios?
Journey time varies depending on which ferry you take. The fastest option – operated by Seajets – takes approximately 4 hours 5 minutes. If you sail with Zante Ferries, allow around 9 hours 5 minutes for the crossing.
How much does the Piraeus to Ios ferry cost?
Tickets start from €36 per person for a standard seat, though you may pay up to €36 depending on the operator, the class of travel you choose, and how far in advance you book – prices can rise during the peak summer months.
Which ferry companies operate the Piraeus–Ios route?
The route is served by Seajets, Zante Ferries.