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 onto Patras.
The docking area in Patras forThe 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 closer distance to Sami in Kephalonia. Taxis transport passengers to the villages or you can hire a car which will be delivered to you at the port. See Car Boat Bike Hire by clicking here.
Note - September to June The Kefalonia ferry only has one service each Saturday instead of 2 services as per each other day. Patras 12.30pm - Vathy, Ithaca, arriving around 5pm.
Hours on the bus - 3½
Hours on ferry - 4
Sami, Cephalonia to Piso Aetos, Ithaca - Ferry Timetable. Xanthoula Ferry - Click here. Aghia Marina Ferry - Click Here
KTEL bus terminal of Athens: +30 210 5136185 / +30 210 5129293
Patras Port Authority: +30 2610 341002
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