Anafi Ferries

The port of Anafi plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Anafi serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Anafi, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Heraklion - Anafi connecting Anafi with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Blue Star Ferries run regular services from Anafi, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Anafi offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Anafi is primarily accessible by ferry from other Greek islands and the mainland. Regular ferry connections operate from Piraeus (Athens' main port), with journeys typically taking between 8-12 hours depending on the type of vessel and stops along the way. From nearby Santorini, the ferry ride is much shorter at approximately 1-2 hours. Public buses connect Anafi's port to the main village, though the schedule aligns with ferry arrivals. If driving to your departure port, long-term parking is available at most major ferry terminals, though advance booking is recommended during peak season.

Nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Anafi stands as one of Greece's most serene and untouched Cycladic treasures. This small island east of Santorini offers a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy Greek destinations, with its golden beaches, whitewashed buildings, and rugged landscape. As a ferry destination, Anafi promises an authentic Greek island experience where time seems to slow down and the rhythms of traditional island life prevail.

Anafi enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The prime time to visit is between May and October when temperatures are ideal for swimming and outdoor activities, with July and August being the warmest months. June and September offer the perfect balance of warm weather and fewer visitors, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Ferry services to Anafi increase during the summer months, with more frequent connections from Athens and neighboring islands. The Easter celebration in spring is particularly special on Anafi, featuring traditional customs and festivities that showcase the island's cultural heritage.

Anafi serves as a gateway to several stunning Aegean destinations. Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches and dramatic caldera views, is just a 1-2 hour ferry ride away. The larger island of Naxos, known for its fertile landscape and ancient ruins, can be reached in about 3-4 hours, offering a contrast to Anafi's minimalist charm. Amorgos, with its famous monastery and crystal-clear waters, makes for another excellent day trip or island-hopping stop. The lesser-known Small Cyclades (Koufonisia, Donoussa, Schinoussa) can also be accessed from Anafi, creating opportunities for exploring multiple islands with distinct characters in one journey.

Anafi rewards visitors with authentic experiences despite its small size. Hiking to Kalamiotissa Monastery atop Mount Kalamos (the second-largest monolith in the Mediterranean) offers breathtaking panoramic views worth the effort. The island's pristine beaches, including Roukounas and Kleisidi, provide perfect spots for swimming in crystal-clear waters without the crowds. In Chora, the main village, wander through narrow whitewashed alleys and stop at local tavernas to sample traditional dishes like matsata (handmade pasta with rabbit) and local goat cheese. Don't miss visiting the ancient city of Anafi, where ruins reveal the island's long history dating back to Phoenician times.

According to Greek mythology, Anafi emerged from the sea at Apollo's command to provide shelter for the Argonauts during a storm, its name derives from 'anafainein,' meaning 'to appear.' The island was once a place of exile during Roman times and later under Ottoman rule, contributing to its isolated development and preserved traditions. Mount Kalamos on Anafi is home to rare plant species found nowhere else in the world due to its unique geological formation. The island maintains one of the lowest population densities in the inhabited Cyclades, with fewer than 300 permanent residents who still practice traditional farming and fishing methods passed down through generations.