Ferry sailings connecting Ikaria to the Dodecanese island of Kalymnos operate throughout the year, serviced primarily by Blue Star Ferries as part of its East Aegean to Dodecanese regional network.
- Frequency: 3 times a week (year-round baseline, with slight schedule adjustments in winter)
- Travel Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Average Ticket Price: €13.00 – €16.50
- Distance: 62.38 kilometers (38.76 nautical miles / ~33.7 nautical miles direct)
Key Route Details & FAQs
How long does the ferry ride from Ikaria to Kalymnos take?
The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes on standard conventional car ferries. Voyage times remain fairly consistent, with slight variations depending on sea conditions and intermediate island stops along the route (such as Patmos or Leros).
How much do tickets cost from Ikaria to Kalymnos?
An economy passenger ticket is very affordable, averaging between €13.00 and €16.50:
- Vehicle Transportation: Transporting a standard passenger car typically costs around €40 to €65 extra, while motorcycles range from €10 to €18.
- Passenger Discounts: Infants and toddlers up to 4 years old travel for free, while children aged 5 to 10, university students, and large families qualify for up to a 50% discount.
Are there direct ferry connections?
Yes, both direct non-stop sailings and multi-stop island-hopping connections are offered depending on the specific day’s ferry schedule.
Useful Tips for Travelers
- Departure Ports in Ikaria: Ferries bound for the Dodecanese usually depart from either Agios Kirykos (the main port in the south) or Evdilos (on the northern side). Always verify your departure port on your ticket before setting out.
- Arrival Port in Kalymnos: Ships dock at Pothia Port, the lively harbor and capital city located on the southern coast of Kalymnos.
- Island Hopping Link: This route provides a seamless sea bridge between the North/East Aegean (Ikaria, Samos) and the Dodecanese chain (Kalymnos, Kos, Rhodes), making it a popular choice for multi-archipelago itineraries.
