Ferry from Kefalonia to Zante

Is there a ferry from Kefalonia to Zante (Zakynthos)?

Yes, there are actually 2 ferry routes connecting the Ionian islands of Kefalonia and Zante. The first one connects the port of Sami in Kefalonia with the main port of Zante and is operated by Lefkada Palace. The second one connects the port of Pessada in Kefalonia with the port of Agios Nikolaos in Zante, and is served by Ionian Sea Ferries.

The ferry routes are normally active between May and early October.

What’s the ferry schedule from Kefalonia to Zante?

In the summer months, you can find up to 10 weekly ferry crossings from Kefalonia to Zante (usually 1-2 daily).

The earliest ferry usually departs from the port of Pessada at 07:30 and reaches the port of Agios Nikolaos in Zante at 09:15. The latest ferry usually leaves the port of Sami at 16:30 and arrives in Zante port at 19:30.

Bear in mind that ferry timetables are subject to change. You can always check real-time ferry schedules on Ferryhopper and the Ferryhopper App.

How much is the ferry from Kefalonia to Zante (Zakynthos)?

Ferry prices for the Pessada - Agios Nikolaos route normally start at €11, while standard Sami - Zante ferry tickets start at €12.80.

The final cost also depends on available discounts and vehicle transportation.

Οffers

Find the best available offers for Greece ferries on Ferryhopper. Find updated information about ferry routes, compare prices and offers, and book your ferry tickets in just a few steps.

Note that current offers are automatically applied when you make your ferry reservation on Ferryhopper.

Discounts

To book cheaper Kefalonia - Zante ferry tickets, you can take advantage of discounts up to 50% available by the ferry companies for certain passenger categories, such as children aged 5-10 years old.

Infants and toddlers up to 4 years old usually travel free of charge. Bear in mind that available discounts may vary from one operator to another.

Moreover, permanent residents of the island are normally entitled to a ferry discount.

How long is the ferry ride from Kefalonia to Zante?

The ferry time from Kefalonia to Zante normally ranges from 1 hr 45 min to 3 hr, depending on the port of departure (Sami or Pessada).

Is there a high-speed ferry from Kefalonia to Zante?

No, the ferries operating on the 2 routes between Kefalonia and Zante are normally conventional.

What’s the distance between Kefalonia and Zante?

The distance between the port of Sami and the main port of Zante is around 30 nautical miles (about 56 km), while the port of Pessada is about 14 nautical miles (27 km) away from the port of Agios Nikolaos in Zante.

Useful tips for your ferry trip to Zante from Kefalonia

Here are some travel tips for your ferry trip from Kefalonia to Zante:

• In the summer months, the ports of Kefalonia can be quite busy. Therefore, it’s best to arrive at the departure port at least 45 min before the trip, especially if you are bringing along your vehicle.
• The island of Zante (or Zakynthos) stands out for its impressive beaches, natural beauty and entertainment options. Find more ideas and tips about holidays in Zante and discover what to see and do there.
• For the mainland, you can easily reach Kefalonia and Zante by ferry all year round. Take a look at ferry routes to the Ionian islands from the port of Kyllini: Kyllini - Kefalonia and Kyllini - Zante.
• Zante is a great starting point for island hopping in the Ionian Islands. Check out our Map of ferries to find all available ferry connections between Zante and Ithaca, Lefkada, Corfu, and Paxi.

Where to take the ferry from Kefalonia to Zante

Ferries to Zante depart from 2 ports in Kefalonia: from Sami on the eastern side of the islands, and from Pessada on its southern part. The first one is about 26 km (37 min by car) from Argostoli, while the latters is about 12.5 km (20 min by car) from the capital of Kefalonia island.

Apart from the car, you can also reach the 2 ports by bus from Argostoli and other areas on the island, while there are also taxi services that you can opt for.

Can I travel on the Kefalonia to Zante ferry with a car?

Yes, you can bring along your vehicle on the ferry serving the Pessada - Agios Nikolaos route, but on the Sami - Zante ferry. Car tickets normally cost €35, and motorcycle tickets are at €14.

Tip: as vehicle spaces usually sell out fast, we recommend booking your vehicle tickets a few weeks in advance.

Ferry luggage

Greek ferry companies are usually quite flexible regarding luggage size and weight. You can keep your luggage next to you or store your bags and suitcases in the designated luggage area on the ferry to Zante.

Tip: we recommend that you don't carry more than 50 kg of luggage, to avoid delays due to limited space in the luggage area.

Cabins

As the journey from Kefalonia to Zane is quite short, there are no cabins available on board Ionian Sea Ferries και Lefkada Palace ferries.

Pet travel

On board Kefalonia - Zante ferries, you can bring along your pet free of charge. Remember to include your pet in the booking when you make your reservation on Ferryhopper.

Make sure to carry all necessary pet health certificates and any supplies you may need for your trip.

Book cheap ferry tickets from Kefalonia to Zante

On Ferryhopper, you can book ferry tickets from Kefalonia to Zante with no hidden costs. Find all available routes, compare ferry schedules, companies and fares, and book your trip in the Ionian Islands in no time!