Ferry sailings connecting the main port of Piraeus to the island of Donoussa run throughout the year, operated primarily by Blue Star Ferries (typically via vessel lines serving the Small Cyclades and Amorgos).
- Frequency: 5 times a week (with increased frequencies and seasonal options in peak summer)
- Travel Duration: 7 hours (approx. 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes depending on stops)
- Ticket Price Range: €32.00 – €72.00
- Distance: 184.11 kilometers (114.40 nautical miles / ~120 nautical miles)
Key Route Details & FAQs
How long does the ferry ride from Piraeus to Donoussa take?
The journey takes approximately 7 hours on standard conventional ferries. Exact voyage duration varies slightly depending on intermediate port calls along the Cyclades line (often stopping at Syros, Paros, or Naxos before reaching Donoussa).
How much do tickets cost from Piraeus to Donoussa?
Standard passenger ticket prices range from €32.00 to €72.00 depending on seat type and vessel class:
- Seating & Cabins: Basic deck economy tickets start on the lower end of the range, while upgrading to reserved aircraft-style seats or private sleeping cabins increases the fare.
- Vehicle Transportation: Transporting a standard passenger car typically adds €85–€115, while motorcycles cost around €20–€30. (Note: Vehicles are rarely necessary on Donoussa).
- Passenger Discounts: Infants and toddlers up to 4 years old travel free of charge, 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 sailings and routes with intermediate island stops are available. High season (June to September) features more frequent departures from multiple operators, whereas winter schedules operate at reduced weekly frequencies.
Useful Tips for Travelers
- Piraeus Departure Gates: Small Cyclades-bound ferries (including those calling at Donoussa, Koufonisia, and Amorgos) typically depart from Gates E6 and E7 at the Port of Piraeus. Arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes prior to departure.
- No Vehicle Necessary: Donoussa is a tranquil, compact island with a single main paved road (~12 km). Most beaches (like Kedros and Livadi) and settlements are easily reached on foot, via local hiking paths, or by seasonal water taxis operating from the main port at Stavros.
- Connecting via the Express Skopelitis: If direct Piraeus schedules do not match your travel dates, another popular route is taking a daily ferry from Piraeus to Naxos or Amorgos, and transferring to the local ferry Express Skopelitis, which connects Donoussa to the other Small Cyclades islands daily.
