The Rafina to Tinos ferry is the fastest and most convenient route from the Athens area, leaving from the port nearest the airport and reaching the island in 2 to 4 hours. High-speed catamarans and conventional ferries cross daily on the busy Rafina–Andros–Tinos–Mykonos line. This guide covers the Rafina ferry times, prices, operators and how to connect from the airport.
Rafina sits on the east coast of Attica, far closer to Athens International Airport than Piraeus, which makes it the first choice for many travellers heading to the island. The route is one of two mainland options set out in the guide to how to get to Tinos. The sections below cover the crossing in detail.
How long is the Rafina ferry?
The Rafina ferry takes about 2 to 2.5 hours on a high-speed catamaran and 3.5 to 4 hours on a conventional ferry. The high-speed boats stop briefly at Andros, while the conventional ferries ride the summer wind more steadily.
Crossing time depends on the vessel. The fast catamarans cover the route in around two hours, making a short stop at Andros on the way, which suits travellers wanting to reach the island quickly. The larger conventional ferries take closer to four hours but offer more space, a vehicle deck and a steadier ride in the summer meltemi wind. Both are shorter than the equivalent crossing from Piraeus, which is the main reason travellers choose Rafina. The exact time varies with the boat and the stops. Travellers in a hurry to reach a beach or a hotel pick the catamaran, while those with a vehicle or a tendency to seasickness take the conventional ferry. The crossing passes Andros and offers open-deck views of the northern Cyclades along the way. On a clear day, the approach to Tinos Town, with the marble church visible above the harbour, makes a memorable arrival. Knowing the schedule helps with planning.
What is the Rafina ferry schedule?
The Rafina ferry runs 4 to 6 times daily in summer, with morning and afternoon departures, dropping to 1 or 2 daily crossings in winter. High-speed boats withdraw in the off-season, leaving the conventional ferries year-round.
The timetable follows the tourist season. From June to September, a mix of high-speed and conventional boats offers several departures a day, clustered in the morning and afternoon, which gives travellers flexibility. From late autumn the catamarans stop running and the conventional ferries continue once or twice daily. Schedules shift week to week, so confirming the exact time a day or two before sailing is wise. Summer sailings fill quickly, especially around the August 15 pilgrimage. The fares track the same seasonal pattern.
How much does the Rafina ferry cost?
The Rafina ferry costs about €30 on a conventional ferry and €45 to €55 on a high-speed catamaran for a standard seat. Vehicles, cabins and business-class seats cost extra, and children and students receive discounts.
Ticket price tracks the vessel and the seat class. A standard economy seat on a conventional ferry costs around €30, while a high-speed catamaran seat reaches €45 to €55. Bringing a car adds €60 to €90 each way on the conventional boats, and business-class or reserved seats raise the total. Children, students and residents qualify for reduced fares with most operators. Booking early secures both the lowest prices and a guaranteed place in the busy summer months. The route is served by a small group of operators.
Which companies run the Rafina ferry?
The Rafina ferry is run mainly by Fast Ferries and Golden Star Ferries, with both conventional and high-speed vessels. The route forms part of the busy Rafina–Andros–Tinos–Mykonos line across the northern Cyclades.
A handful of operators share the route. Fast Ferries and Golden Star Ferries dominate the Rafina line, running conventional ferries that carry vehicles and faster catamarans for passengers in a hurry. SeaJets also operates high-speed services across the Cyclades in peak season. All link Rafina with Andros, Tinos and Mykonos on a single axis, so a ticket often allows island-hopping along the line. Comparing operators on a booking platform shows the fastest and cheapest option for a date. Reaching Rafina from the airport is quick.
How do you get from Athens airport to Rafina port?
You get from Athens airport to Rafina port in about 30 minutes, by direct KTEL bus running roughly hourly for a few euros, or by taxi. Rafina lies just 20 kilometres from the airport, far closer than Piraeus.
The short airport transfer is the route’s biggest advantage. Rafina sits about 20 kilometres from Athens International Airport, linked by a direct KTEL bus that runs roughly every hour and costs only a few euros, or a 30-minute taxi. This makes it possible to land in the morning and catch a midday boat to the island the same day, without entering central Athens. Travellers allow at least 90 minutes between landing and departure to absorb traffic and check-in. The proximity is why many choose Rafina over Piraeus. Rafina itself is a pleasant working port with seafood tavernas along the quay, so an early arrival leaves time for a coffee or a meal before boarding. Parking is available near the port for those driving from Athens, both free and paid. The terminal is compact, which makes finding the right boat quick compared with the sprawling docks of Piraeus. These small advantages add up over the course of a travel day. Vehicles and a few practical points complete the plan.
Can you take a car on the Rafina ferry?
You can take a car on the conventional Rafina to Tinos ferries, but not on the smallest high-speed catamarans. Vehicle space fills quickly in July and August, so book the car deck weeks ahead.
Conventional ferries carry cars, motorcycles and campervans on a lower deck. Drivers book a separate vehicle ticket, arrive at the port 60 to 90 minutes early, and load under crew direction. The high-speed catamarans either refuse vehicles or hold a small deck that sells out first. A car on the island opens the inland villages and remote beaches that buses skip, though travellers on a short stay often rent on arrival instead. Weighing the ferry vehicle fare against a local rental helps decide. A short checklist keeps the crossing smooth.
What should you know before taking the Rafina ferry?
Before taking the Rafina ferry, book ahead in summer, arrive at the port early, and choose a conventional boat on windy days, since the meltemi can delay or cancel the fast catamarans. Keep mobile and paper copies of your ticket.
A little preparation avoids problems. Booking both legs in advance secures the best times in July and August, and arriving at the busy Rafina port with time to spare prevents a missed boat. On windy days, the larger conventional ferry is the safer choice, as the summer meltemi can ground the fast catamarans. Travellers prone to seasickness also prefer the steadier conventional boat. Keeping a screenshot and, where required, a paper ticket avoids gate problems. With these in mind, the Rafina ferry is a smooth start to an island trip, and the wider routes appear in the guide to how to get to Tinos. The questions below cover the points travellers ask most.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ferry from Rafina to Tinos?
The ferry from Rafina to Tinos takes about 2 to 2.5 hours on a high-speed catamaran and 3.5 to 4 hours on a conventional ferry. Both are shorter than the equivalent crossing from Piraeus, which is why many travellers choose Rafina.
Is Rafina better than Piraeus for Tinos?
Rafina is better than Piraeus for Tinos for travellers flying into Athens, since it sits just 20 kilometres from the airport and runs shorter crossings. Piraeus suits visitors staying in central Athens who prefer metro access.
How much is the Rafina ferry?
The Rafina ferry costs about €30 on a conventional ferry and €45 to €55 on a high-speed catamaran for a standard seat. Vehicles cost €60 to €90 extra each way, and children and students receive discounts.
How do you get from Athens airport to Rafina?
You get from Athens airport to Rafina in about 30 minutes, by a direct KTEL bus running roughly hourly for a few euros, or by taxi. Rafina lies only 20 kilometres from the airport, much closer than Piraeus.