Folegandros to Ios Ferry
Folegandros to Ios — At a Glance
- Season: Year-round service.
- Frequency: Typically 1 ferry per day, year-round.
- Sailing days: Daily service.
The Folegandros to Ios ferry is a short hop between two islands with very different personalities. Folegandros is quiet and unspoiled, known for its clifftop Chora and the kind of unhurried pace that feels increasingly rare in the Cyclades. Ios, just across the water, buzzes with a different energy — livelier beaches, a famous party scene, and one of the most iconic village settings in the islands. The crossing links them neatly.
Throughout the year there are 2 ferries per day on average. That frequency gives you reasonable flexibility when planning your onward journey, though booking ahead is wise in summer when demand picks up across the southern Cyclades.
Monthly Schedule Overview
Here is a month-by-month overview of ferry service from Folegandros to Ios:
| Month | Available | Avg. Ferries/Day |
|---|---|---|
| January | No | – |
| February | Yes | 1.5 (1–2) |
| March | Yes | 1.5 (1–2) |
| April | Yes | 1.4 (1–2) |
| May | Yes | 1.6 (1–3) |
| June | Yes | 1.9 (1–3) |
| July | Yes | 1.5 (1–2) |
| August | Yes | 1.5 (1–2) |
| September | Yes | 1.4 (1–2) |
| October | No | – |
| November | No | – |
| December | No | – |
Tips for the Folegandros–Ios Ferry
- Four-berth cabins offer the best value if you are travelling as a family or small group; the cost divided between you is often comparable to a budget hotel room.
- The bow (front) of the vessel experiences the most pitching in head-on swells; the stern tends to be smoother when seas are rough.
- Quick-dry travel towels pack much smaller than conventional towels and are worth the investment if you are covering multiple islands.
- In Ios, the whitewashed Chora draws visitors with its narrow footpaths, windmills, and the climb to the Church of Panagia Gremiotissa for sweeping views across the Aegean. The island’s beaches are among the finest in the Cyclades – Mylopotas, Manganari, and Magganari are the most celebrated – while Homer’s reputed tomb lies on the northern hillside.
Useful Resources for Your Greek Island Trip
- Find accommodation in Greece – hotels, apartments and villas on Booking.com
- Book tours and activities in Greece via Viator
- Find guided experiences and day trips via GetYourGuide
- Compare car hire prices in Greece via DiscoverCars
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do ferries run from Folegandros to Ios?
Service typically runs daily, with around 1 ferry per day throughout the year. Frequency nudges slightly higher in the spring and early summer months, when you may find 2 or even 3 sailings on some days. Always check the current schedule before booking, as exact timings vary by season and operator.
Which ferry companies operate the Folegandros–Ios route?
Multiple ferry companies operate this route. Check current schedules for the latest operators.