Ferry sailings connecting the island of Kalymnos to Ikaria operate throughout the year, primarily serviced by Blue Star Ferries (alongside high-speed regional connections operated by Dodekanisos Seaways during warmer months).
- Frequency: 1 time per week (up to 3–5 weekly sailings during peak summer with high-speed catamarans)
- Travel Duration: 4 hours 20 minutes (average on conventional vessels to Evdilos; fast catamarans take around 2 hours 35 minutes to Agios Kirykos)
- Average Ticket Price: €16.53 (economy foot passenger ticket)
- Distance: 91.23 kilometers (56.69 nautical miles)
Key Route Details & FAQs
How long does the ferry ride from Kalymnos to Ikaria take?
The voyage takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes on standard conventional ferries bound for Evdilos. High-speed catamarans (such as Dodekanisos Seaways) reach Agios Kirykos in about 2 hours and 35 minutes.
How much do tickets cost from Kalymnos to Ikaria?
An economy deck passenger ticket starts at an average price of €16.53. Total fare options include:
- Ship Type: High-speed catamarans typically command higher fares than conventional ferries.
- Vehicle Transportation: Carrying a car costs around €33 to €60 extra depending on the vessel and destination port, while motorcycles range from €10 to €20.
- 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?
Direct non-stop sailings are rare; most journeys operate as multi-stop island-hopping lines that call at intermediate Dodecanese and North Aegean ports (such as Leros, Lipsi, or Patmos) before arriving in Ikaria.
Useful Tips for Travelers
- Two Arrival Ports on Ikaria: Ferries from Kalymnos serve both ports on Ikaria depending on the operator:
- Agios Kirykos: Located on the southern coast (capital harbor).
- Evdilos: Located on the northern coast. Verify your booking confirmation carefully to ensure you select the port closest to your accommodation on Ikaria.
- Kalymnos Port Location: Ferries depart from Pothia Port, the main harbor and capital town of Kalymnos.
- Dodecanese to North Aegean Link: This route provides a key connection between the Dodecanese cluster and the North Aegean islands, making it ideal for multi-island itineraries combining Kalymnos, Patmos, Ikaria, and Samos.
