Piraeus to Rhodes Ferry (Athens to Rhodes)

Ferry operators on the Piraeus to Rhodes route

Blue Star Ferries is the primary operator on the Piraeus to Rhodes ferry route. The fleet includes the Blue Star Patmos and other large conventional vessels designed for long Aegean crossings. Vessels offer numbered seats, business class lounges, and full cabin options including 2, 3, and 4-bed inside/outside cabins, all equipped with showers, toilets, and air conditioning. Onboard amenities include a la carte and self-service restaurants, bars, gift stores, and internet access.

Aegeon Pelagos (a subsidiary of ANEK Lines) operates occasional service on the route with the Prevelis and other vessels offering cabins, restaurants, bars, shops, and vehicle decks.

Blue Star runs the Piraeus-Rhodes route as part of multi-island Dodecanese itineraries, often calling at Patmos, Leros, Kos, and Symi before reaching Rhodes.

How long is the ferry from Athens to Rhodes?

The fastest direct crossing is 12 hours 50 minutes on Blue Star Ferries. Typical overnight crossings take 16 to 18 hours, with multi-stop services through the Dodecanese islands taking longer. Most travelers prefer to fly Athens-Rhodes (1 hour) unless traveling with a car or planning slow island-hopping.

How much does the Piraeus to Rhodes ferry cost?

Standard tickets start at €48 for an economy air-style seat. Average passenger fares are €73.50. Cabin supplements start at approximately €60 for an interior 2-bed cabin; the average cabin price on the route is €120+. Cars cost from €130.50 per crossing; motorcycles from €41.

Departure and arrival ports

Ferries to Rhodes depart from Piraeus Gate E1, the gate dedicated to Dodecanese services. The walk from the Piraeus metro station to E1 takes 20-30 minutes, or use the free shuttle bus inside the port. Allow at least 90 minutes at the port before departure for the long-haul ferry experience.

Ferries arrive at Rhodes Tourist Port, located next to the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Rhodes. The port is walkable to the medieval Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master, and many of the city's hotels and restaurants.

When to book your Piraeus to Rhodes ferry

For peak season (July and August), book 1 to 2 months in advance, especially for cabins and vehicle space. Cabins on overnight services sell out earliest. Off-season booking is more flexible.

Travel tip: book a cabin on the overnight ferry

The Piraeus to Rhodes route is a 16+ hour overnight crossing. Booking a cabin (rather than an air seat) transforms the experience, a 2-bed inside cabin with private shower for around €60-80 per cabin total replaces a hotel night and gives you a real sleep. For travelers without a vehicle, consider whether to fly Athens-Rhodes (1 hour, often €60-100 one way) instead. The ferry is best when you want to bring a car, do island-hopping through the Dodecanese, or travel slowly.