Each day from Kifissou Bus Depot in Athens, KTEL buses leave hourly for Patras. In Patras, Strintzis'/Blue Star - The Kefalonia departs twice daily for Cephalonia and Ithaca, once at 12.30pm and again at 8.30pm. The 12.30 pm ferry reaches the Port of Piso Aetos in southern Ithaca around 4pm and the 8.30pm ferry docks at the port in Vathy, also in Southern Ithaca, around 12.30am. Alternatively, at Kiffisou Bus Terminal there is also a bus/ferry available daily at 8am. This ticket takes you directly from Athens right onto the ferry and then Ithaca. The ferry makes a stop at Sami in Cephalonia where the bus will disembark, so you will need to take your luggage from the bus once the bus is on the ferry. There are cubicles available, but it's still a good idea to keep a regular eye on your belongings. From Sami the ferry continues on to Ithaca before returning again to Sami and then back to Patras.
The docking area in Patras for The Kefalonia ferry is opposite the Patras center train station. You can buy your tickets at the booth on the dock or from any Strintzi's or Blue Star Ferries agent. During August it is wise to book if you have a car. August is peak season for all Greek islands.
When docking at Piso Aetos, don't be surprised at how little there is at this dock. It was chosen for it's accessibility and the closer distance to Sami in Kefalonia. Taxis transport passengers to the villages or you can hire a car which will be delivered to you at the port. There is also a limited bus service at the port.
Hours on the bus - 3½
Hours on ferry - 3½
