Rafina to Andros Ferry
Rafina to Andros — At a Glance
- Season: Year-round, with reduced service in winter.
- Frequency: 2-3 ferries per day in winter, increasing to multiple daily departures (8 per day) in summer.
- Sailing days: Daily service.
- Journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Operators: Golden Star Ferries, Fast Ferries.
- Tickets from: €20 per person.
The Rafina to Andros ferry is one of the most convenient crossings in the northern Cyclades. Rafina sits just 30 kilometres east of Athens, making it a practical alternative to Piraeus for travellers heading to Andros — and with a crossing time of just over an hour, you’ll be stepping ashore on the island before you know it.
Sailings run daily throughout the year, though you’ll notice a marked difference in frequency depending on the season. On average, there are 7 ferries per day across the year. Come summer (June–August), that figure climbs to 8 per day, giving you real flexibility when planning your trip. In winter, expect around 2 departures daily.
Monthly Schedule Overview
Here is a month-by-month overview of ferry service from Rafina to Andros:
| Month | Available | Avg. Ferries/Day |
|---|---|---|
| January | No | – |
| February | Yes | 2.2 (2–3) |
| March | Yes | 2.0 |
| April | Yes | 6.8 (2–10) |
| May | Yes | 7.6 (7–11) |
| June | Yes | 8.3 (8–9) |
| July | Yes | 8.4 (8–9) |
| August | Yes | 8.7 (8–10) |
| September | Yes | 8.6 (7–10) |
| October | Yes | 6.8 (5–9) |
| November | No | – |
| December | No | – |
Ferry Companies
Two companies operate the Rafina–Andros route, giving you a choice of sailings across the day:
- Golden Star Ferries – approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
- Fast Ferries
Tips for the Rafina–Andros Ferry
- The sea temperature in the Aegean ranges from around 15°C in winter to 27–28°C in late summer; falling overboard in winter is a serious emergency.
- Thessaloniki connects by ferry to Lesvos, Chios, Limnos, and Ikaria – useful for travellers starting from northern Greece.
- Some routes operate a circular service visiting multiple islands in sequence; you may be able to stay on board through an intermediate stop rather than disembarking.
- If a short hop is your only connection to an island with no other transport options, missing the last ferry means an unplanned overnight stay – plan conservatively.
- In Andros, the elegant capital Chora rewards exploration with its cobbled lanes, neoclassical mansions, and a proud tradition of seafaring culture. Don’t miss the impressive Foros Cave near Aladinos Village, reached via a beautiful 17th-century arched bridge.
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 Rafina to Andros?
Service runs daily year-round, with 2–3 departures per day in winter rising to around 8 per day during the summer peak. If flexibility matters to you, travelling between June and September gives you the most options.
How long is the ferry from Rafina to Andros?
The crossing takes approximately 1 hour 5 minutes at its fastest. Actual journey times vary depending on which ferry company and vessel you travel with.
How much does the Rafina to Andros ferry cost?
Ticket prices start from €20 per person for a standard seat. Booking in advance is advisable during the summer months when demand is high.
Which ferry companies operate the Rafina–Andros route?
The route is served by Golden Star Ferries and Fast Ferries, both operating out of Rafina port.