Kefalonia Ferries – Guide to Ferries in Kefalonia Island, Greece

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Greece Kefalonia Ferries

The ferries of Kefalonia Island are a central part of the island’s transportation system, linking it with the Greek mainland and neighboring islands such as Lefkada, Ithaca and Zakynthos. In recent years the popularity of the island grow significant due for its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and hospitable locals, and Kefalonia ferries one of the most important transport options.

Kefalonia is accessible by ferry from several key destinations on the Greek mainland and surrounding islands. The primary ports serving the island with ferries are Sami, Poros, Fiskardo, the small port of Pessada, and the port of Argostoli. Each port has its specific routes, schedules, and advantages for different travelers.

Ferries to Kefalonia Island

Whether you’re planning a one-day visit from the mainland or an extended Ionian island-hopping journey, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Kefalonia’s ferry services, and which ferries connect Kefalonia Island.

Ferries to Kefalonia Island

Ferries to Kefalonia from Lefkada

The northern port of Fiskardo connects Kefalonia Island with Lefkada, perfect for those traveling between the two islands. There are a lot of tourists, who arrive from the northern part of Greece (usually from Serbia, North Macedonia, Romania, Hungary, etc), and they choose to travel to Kefalonia the ferries from Lefkada often.

Kefalonia Lefkada ferries

The ferry between Lefkada and Kefalonia

In Lefkada the port of Vasiliki village is the primary port for ferries to Kefalonia, which is a small fishing village on the southern side of Lefkada Island. Vasiliki is also a nice destination for holidays also, because some of the best beaches of Lefkada, such as the iconic Porto Katsiki beach or Egremni beach are near.

Lefkada Kefalonia ferries

Port of Vasiliki in Lefkada

The travel time of the ferries are short, just about 60 minutes between Kefalonia and Lefkada. During summer months ferries run 2-3x daily, depending on the actual schedule. It’s an important information that pre booking is usually necessary during summer months (for vehicles), due to high tourist traffic! This ferry transport cars, vans, and passengers without vehicles also.

The ferryport of Fiskardo village is located on the north side of the village.

Ferries to Kefalonia from Kyllini

The ferry from Kyllini is one of the most popular routes to Kefalonia, docking at the port of Poros (Lefkes). The journey typically takes about 1.5 hours and runs several times daily during the high season. This route is operated by Levante Ferries, and these ferries are the largest ones which travel to Kefalonia Island from other locations.

Kefalonia Kyllini Ferries

Port of Poros (Lefkes)

This port in Kefalonia is located in the southern side Poros, which port is known as Lefkes also, because the port is situated a few hundred meters away from the central areas of Poros village.

Kyllini port for ferries to Kefalonia Island

The port of Kyllini

Ferries to Kefalonia from Patras

This route connects Kefalonia with Patras, one of Greece’s major mainland port cities in the Peloponnese. Patras (or known as Patra) is a convenient connection point for those coming from Athens or Western Greece. The ferries from Patras arrive into the port of Sami in Kefalonia Island.

Kefalonia Ferries to Ithaca

Frequent ferry services operate between the port of Sami in Kefalonia and Ithaca, an island renowned for its ancient myths and breathtaking landscapes. There are two ferry companies which offer routes between Kefalonia and Ithaca, Ionian Pelagos and Levante Ferries – both belong to the most significant ferry companies of the area.

Ithaca Kefalonia ferries

Ferry to Ithaca

The ferryport which is used primarily by the ferries in Ithaca Island is known as Pisaetos, which is just a small port on the west side of Ithaca.

Ferry from Kefalonia to Zakynthos

This route allows visitors to easily access the famous beaches of Zakynthos. The ferries run from one of the smallest port of Kefalonia, which is the port Pessada, and arrive to Agios Nikolaos in Zakynthos. This route is operated by the company of Ionian Pelagos, usually twice in a day during summer season.

Kefalonia Ferries to Zakynthos Island

The port of Pessada

Ferries from Astakos to Kefalonia

From the Greek mainland there is an another option for ferries to Kefalonia Island, from the town of Astakos.

Local ferries of Kefalonia Island – The route between Argostoli – Lixouri

There is only one local ferry for transportation within Kefalonia, which transport cars and passengers between Argostoli and Lixouri. This ferry is a great option to shorten the way to Paliki peninsula from Lixouri, because driving on the road the distances are much longer. It is also quite cheap for cars and passengers both.

Argostoli Lixouri ferry

Port of Lixouri

The ferries run between the ports of Argostoli and Lixouri, and travellers can find easily the departure places in the towns (you will meet the road signs).

Ferry Ports Of Kefalonia

Port of Sami

Located on the eastern side, Sami is one of Kefalonia’s largest ports and considered as a primary gateway. The port of Sami is conveniently located for those wishing to explore central and eastern Kefalonia. Sami village is close to great local attractions like Melissani Cave Lake, Drogarati Cave with stalactites, the ancient acropolis of Sami, and the beautiful Antisamos beach.

Sami port and harbour

Port of Sami

The ferries which use primarily the port of Sami are transporting cars and passengers, are connecting Sami (and also Kefalonia Island) with Ithaca, Patras and Astakos. There are also daily boat trips and excursions from Sami port, especially to Ithaca.

Port of Poros

Poros, situated in the southeast, is the arrival point for ferries from Kyllini. It’s a smaller, quieter town, ideal for those looking to avoid larger crowds. Poros is a short drive from Skala, known for its beach, ancient ruins, and nightlife. Interesting fact that his is port is known as the port of Poros, but if we want to be exact, this is the port of Lefkes – because the village of Poros is situated a few hundred meters away from here, and at this place there were built the houses of the small Lefkes village.

Port of Poros in Kefalonia (Lefkes)

Port of Poros

Port of Fiskardo

Fiskardo village is located in northern Kefalonia and is unique for its traditional Venetian architecture, untouched by the 1953 earthquake. This traditional fishing village is close to the northern villages of Assos and scenic beaches like Emblisi beach. The port of Fiskardo is the primary port of ferries which run between Kefalonia and Lefkada, transporting cars and passengers also.

Fiskardo port

This port is famous for its charm and Venetian atmospheres, and also for its restaurants. It’s worth to know that in the port of Fiskardo there are boat rental options to discovering the picturesque bays of the area, and also boat excursions to Ithaca. The ferries use the northernmost area of the port, the southern areas are for smaller fishing boats and yachts.

Ferryport in Fiskardo

Port of Argostoli

The port of Argostoli is for the ferries which run between Argostoli and Lixouri. Argostoli is the capital of Kefalonia Island, but due to its location there are no such ferries which run to other islands. The size of the port is quite big, and from spring months to autumn usually arrive to the port gigantic ocean liners with thousands of passengers.

Port of Argostoli

In the port of Argostoli there can be find daily boat trips, and it is also the best place in Kefalonia for turtle watching. The loggerhead turtles (Caretta Caretta) are swimming in the port often, especially in the mornings after the small fishing boats have arrived from the sea. The promenade of the port was renovated in recent years, where the sidewalk and the trees were also renewed.

Port of Argostoli for ferries

Due to its size Argostoli port has several parts, which include the small fishing boats in the south, the boats for daily excursions, the yachts, the area for ferries, and ocean liners in the north.

Port in Argostoli

Port of Pessada

The smallest ferryport of Kefalonia Island, Pessada is a port for ferries which run between Kefalonia and Zakynthos (Agios Nikolaos). This is the smallest port Kefalonia, literally just a small pier at the end of the road without any significant buildings.

Pessada port in Kefalonia for ferries to Zakynthos Agios Nikolaos

Ferry Companies and Vessels

Several ferry companies operate routes to and from Kefalonia, including major players like Levante Ferries, Ionian Ferries, and Kefalonian Lines. Kefalonia-bound ferries range from large, multi-decked vessels on popular routes to smaller ferries for shorter distances. Larger ferries are generally better suited for travelers with vehicles or those seeking additional onboard amenities.

The larger ferries arrive from Kyllini, while the other ferries (Lefkada, Ithaca) are usually smaller.

Amenities and Facilities of Kefalonian Ferries

  • Vehicle Transport: nearly all major ferries offer car decks, allowing travelers to bring cars or motorbikes.
  • Passenger Comfort: many ferries feature air-conditioned lounges, cafes, outdoor seating, and spacious decks for sightseeing.
  • Accessibility: major ferry companies have made significant improvements to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.

Ferry tickets and reservations

Ticket prices vary based on the season, route, and type of ticket (economy, business class, or VIP).

  • Tickets for Kefalonian ferries can be booked online, directly at the ports, or through local travel agents.
  • Seasonal demand: During peak months (June-August), it’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for vehicle transport. The ferries to Kefalonia are usually filled with pre bookings, and if you don’t book in advance, you may hear ‘our vessel is full’ notice. For the local ferries which run between Argostoli and Lixouri, pre booking is not neccessary.
  • Pricing: prices range based on routes and time of year. Discounts are usually available for students, children, and groups! For vehicles the actual price depend from the size of the car.

The frequency and timing of ferries fluctuate seasonally. From June to September, schedules are packed to accommodate high demand, while from November to March, many routes run only a few times weekly or may not operate at all.

Kefalonian ferry schedules

In summer, ferries operate multiple times daily on major routes. For example, from Lefkada to Kefalonia ferries run up to 2-3 times daily. During the low season, ferries may operate only once or twice a week on less popular routes, so it’s essential to confirm schedules.

Practical Tips for Ferry Travel

Arrive at least 45 minutes early, particularly during the summer. Passengers with vehicles are encouraged to arrive 60–90 minutes prior to departure.

Seasickness: if prone to seasickness, choose a seat in the middle of the vessel, where motion is less noticeable.
Food and drink: most of the ferries have onboard cafes, but passengers can also bring snacks.
Luggage: secure valuables, as luggage is often stored in open areas or on vehicle decks.

Island hopping and multi-destination journeys by ferries

Many travelers use Kefalonia as a jumping-off point for visiting nearby Ionian Islands. Island-hopping passes and flexible tickets are sometimes available for those planning multi-island tours.

Kefalonia – Ithaca – Zakynthos: This popular route lets travelers explore multiple Ionian islands.
Kefalonia – Lefkada: For those interested in exploring the Ionian islands with the most blue beaches.

Conclusion

Ferries are an integral part of the Kefalonian experience, connecting travelers to the broader Ionian region and offering a scenic, relaxed mode of travel. Whether you’re island-hopping, heading to the mainland, or exploring Kefalonia itself, understanding ferry schedules, booking tips, and port information ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.

With spectacular sea views and comfortable amenities, ferry travel in Kefalonia adds a memorable dimension to any Greek island adventure.

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