Ferry and Cruise Ships to Rhodes
“Navigate Your Way to Rhodes – Premier Ferry Connections Await”
Reaching this island, the legendary Island of the Sun, is an experience that begins long before arrival. Whether gliding across the Aegean on a ferry or approaching the island aboard a grand cruise ship, travelers are greeted by the sight of Rhodes Town’s medieval walls, the sparkling sea, and the golden light that has enchanted visitors for centuries.
Ferries to Rhodes connect the island with major Greek ports such as Piraeus (Athens), as well as other Dodecanese islands, Crete, and Turkey. Modern vessels operated by several ferry lines offer comfortable journeys with cabins, lounges, and onboard dining — turning travel into a relaxing part of the adventure. Regular routes make it easy for island-hoppers to include this island in their Aegean itinerary.
At the same time, this island is a major cruise destination, welcoming ships from all over the Mediterranean. The island’s deep-water port, located just steps from the Old Town, allows passengers to disembark directly into one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. From there, it’s easy to explore historic streets, pristine beaches, or embark on short local excursions.
Whether arriving on a boat under the stars or stepping off a cruise ship at sunrise, every journey to this island begins with the same promise — a welcome to an island where history, beauty, and the sea are forever intertwined.
Ferry to Rhodes – This island is connected by sea to Athens (port of Piraeus) by sea throughout the year, boats of various companies guarantee this service. The distance to cover is about 250 nautical miles; the trip can last from 12 to 20 hours depending on the company and intermediate destinations. The connections with the other islands of the Dodecanese by means of boats or hydrofoils are frequent in summer, a little less in winter.
Greece it can be reached by sea mainly from the Italian ports of Ancona, Bari and Brindisi. The main destinations are Patras, Igoumenitsa, Corfu ‘, Paxi. The port of Piraeus, near Athens, concentrates most of the ferries departing for the Greek islands. The search engine will ask you for the data of any vehicle in the following screens. Two boats depart daily from this island to Marmaris in Turkey (1 hour).
The island of Rhodes is also connected with the ports of Cyprus (15 hours) and Haifa in Israel (26 hours). Every day a ferry leaves for the islands of Simi (2 hours), Kos (3.5 hours), Kalimnos (5.5 hours), Leros (7.5 hours) and Patmos (8.5 hours). Various boats depart weekly for Tilos (2.5 hours) and Nissiros (3.5 hours).
Ferries to Rhodes
Other boats connect this island to Castellorizo (3.5 hours), Karpathos (3.5 hours), Kassos (5 hours) and Astipalea (10 hours). One ferry a week travels to Halki (1.5 hours) and Lipsi (9.5 hours). In high season, one hydrofoil per week leaves for Nisyros (2.15 hours), Kalimnos (3.5 hours) and Astypalea (5.5 hours).
Two hydrofoils a week connect this island to Simi (1 hour) and Tilos (1.15 hours). Three hydrofoils a week leave for Leros (3.5 hours) and Patmos (3.5 hours). Two hydrofoils a day go to Cos (2 hours). Every day from April to October, various hydrofoils depart from this island for Marmaris (30 minutes).
The timetables of all the connections listed above are subject to change, the updated timetables can be found at the EOT (Hellenic Tourist Board), at tourist agencies, at the tourist police offices and near the ports. From March to the end of October it is also possible to reach this island with cruise ships.
The Ports of Rhodes – Practical Guide for Travelers
As the largest island in the Dodecanese, this island is well connected by sea, with several ports serving ferries, cruise ships, and private boats. The main harbor facilities are located in and around Rhodes Town, making sea travel convenient for both international visitors and those island-hopping within Greece.
Commercial Port (Central Harbor)
The island’s main port lies on the eastern side of the Town, near the medieval walls. It handles most ferry arrivals from Piraeus (Athens), Symi, Kos, Crete, and other Dodecanese islands. Cruise ships also dock here, just a short 10–15-minute walk from the Old Town. The terminal offers customs and immigration services, car rentals, taxis, and easy bus connections across the island.
Mandraki Harbor
A few minutes north of the main port, Mandraki Harbor is one of the most scenic spots in this island. Recognizable by its three windmills and the deer statues marking the entrance, it now serves excursion boats, day cruises, and private yachts. From here, you can join trips to Symi, Lindos, Anthony Quinn Bay, and other coastal destinations.
Kamiros Skala Port
Located on the west coast, about 45 km from Rhodes Town, Kamiros Skala operates smaller routes to the nearby island of Halki (Chalki). It’s also used by fishing boats and local excursions, with a few tavernas and parking nearby.
Rhodes Marina
Just south of Mandraki, the modern Rhodes Marina offers full services for private yachts and sailing charters. It provides berths, maintenance, fueling, and amenities like restaurants, cafés, and shops, catering to leisure travelers and luxury vessels.
Getting Around
All main ports are easily reached by taxi, local bus, or rental car. The main harbor area of Rhodes Town is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions, including the Medieval Old Town and Elli Beach, are within walking distance.