Santorini to Thirasia Ferry: Day & and New Evening Times

For travelers seeking an authentic glimpse of the Cyclades as they existed decades ago, the island of Thirasia, located just across the caldera from Santorini, presents an ideal escape. To facilitate movement between the islands, the Municipality of Thira operates a free passenger ferry and connecting bus network using the municipal boat “Eleftherios”.

A significant addition to this network is the introduction of a new, free evening service running during the high summer season (June 24 to September 25). This guide compiles all verified daytime routes, bus connections, and the new late-night options to help you plan a seamless trip.

1. The New Summer Evening Extension

The new evening schedule operates four days a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays). This service provides a critical link for visitors wishing to stay on Thirasia for dinner or sunset, as well as those staying overnight on Thirasia who need a late return from Santorini.

Night Schedule for the days Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

Essential Logistics for the Evening Runs

Unlike the daytime network, there are no municipal connecting buses scheduled for the 21:00 and 21:20 evening runs. Travelers must plan their “last mile” transport independently:

• Arriving at Ammoudi Bay (21:15): The free shuttle bus up to Oia does not operate at this hour. Passengers must walk up the 200+ cliffside steps to Oia town or arrange for a private vehicle or pre-booked transfer at the bay level.

• Arriving at Riva Port (21:35): If you are crossing to Thirasia for the night, there is no public bus to take you up to the main settlement of Manolas. You will need to coordinate a pickup directly with your local host or accommodation provider.

2. The Standard Daily Daytime Network

For standard day trips, the municipality runs a fully synchronized land-and-sea schedule. Free shuttle buses bridge the gap between the clifftop villages and the ports on both sides of the water.

Daytime Maritime Routes (Vessel “Eleftherios”)

The daytime maritime connections operate daily, linking Ammoudi Bay in Oia to both Riva Port (the northern port) and Korfos Port (the traditional harbor) on Thirasia.

Daytime Synchronized Bus Connections

These municipal shuttle buses are free of charge and timed specifically to meet the arriving and departing ferry passengers.

Santorini Side: Oia Bus Terminal $\leftrightarrow$ Ammoudi Bay

• From Oia (Bus Terminal): 07:45, 12:30, 17:20 (Timed for departing boats)

• From Ammoudi Bay: 08:00, 12:45, 17:35 (Meets arriving boat passengers)

Thirasia Side: Manolas Settlement $\leftrightarrow$ Riva Port

• From Manolas to Riva: 07:25, 12:10, 17:00

• From Riva to Manolas: 08:15, 13:00, 17:50

3. Important Boarding Rules for Visitors

• The Resident Priority Policy: Because the “Eleftherios” is a small, municipal vessel funded primarily to serve the local community, permanent residents of Thirasia have strict priority access for boarding.

• First-Come, First-Served for Visitors: Non-residents and international visitors are permitted on board for any remaining open seats. Because capacity is limited, it is highly recommended to arrive at the docks at least 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time to secure a spot.