Ferry from Katapola (Amorgos) to Donoussa

The Katapola (Amorgos) to Donoussa ferry is a lovely small island route that links Amorgos with one of the most remote islands in the Small Cyclades, making it a great choice if you want to add an unspoilt, quiet destination to your trip. The crossing is usually operated by Small Cyclades Lines with the Express Skopelitis ferry and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes, although some listings mention a shorter scheduled time of around 1 hour 20 minutes depending on the exact itinerary and intermediate stops. In practice you will normally find around three sailings per week in the main season, often on specific weekdays, and services are very seasonal with most departures between June and mid October. Tickets are usually very affordable, starting from about 7 euros one way from Katapola to Donoussa, which makes this one of the best value routes if you want to experience a smaller Cycladic island without a long open sea crossing. Because timetables and travel times vary slightly by date and operator, it is important to check a live schedule for your chosen day and to plan other connections with some flexibility.

Key route information

1. Ferry duration
   Most sources agree that the Katapola (Amorgos) to Donoussa ferry takes around 2 hours 15 minutes, especially on the Express Skopelitis service, which follows a Small Cyclades island hopping route. Some timetable aggregators also list a shorter scheduled sailing of about 1 hour 20 minutes, but you should plan for roughly 2 hours and check the exact time for your specific departure.
2. Ferry companies
   This route is currently mainly operated by Small Cyclades Lines, using the Express Skopelitis ferry that links Naxos, Amorgos, Donoussa and other Small Cyclades islands. Blue Star Ferries also serves Donoussa on its longer Piraeus route, and may sometimes appear as an option between Amorgos and Donoussa as part of a multi stop itinerary, but the regular direct island hopping service is normally with Small Cyclades Lines.
3. Fast vs slow ferry
   On the Katapola to Donoussa route you are usually dealing with conventional ferries rather than true high speed catamarans, so the main variation is between a more direct schedule and a slower multi island run. The slowest crossings are about 2 hours 15 minutes, while the faster listed options are around 1 hour 20 minutes, so the difference is noticeable but not dramatic, and for most travellers departure day and time matter more than speed.
4. Best time to travel
   The most reliable time to travel from Katapola to Donoussa is during the main summer season from June to mid October, when the Express Skopelitis normally runs several times per week and sea conditions are more settled. If you prefer quieter boats and milder temperatures, early June or late September can be ideal, but be aware that there are fewer weekly sailings and you may need to adapt your itinerary to the ferry days.
5. Sea conditions and wind
   This route crosses open sections of the Aegean between Amorgos and Donoussa, which can feel quite exposed when the Meltemi wind blows strongly in July and August. Crossings usually still operate, but the sea can be choppy, so it is wise to avoid very tight same day flight connections, sit inside if you get seasick easily, and carry seasickness tablets just in case.
6. Port guide
   Katapola is the main port of Amorgos, with a long seafront lined with cafes, tavernas, small shops and accommodation, and the ferry usually departs from the central quay that is easy to reach on foot. Donoussa has a small port at Stavros village, which has a sandy beach right by the harbour, a few tavernas and bars, mini markets and simple rooms, all within a short walk of where the ferry docks. The scale of Donoussa makes arrival very relaxed, but facilities are limited, so it is better to organise cash and essentials before you travel.
7. Car rental advice
   The Express Skopelitis is primarily a passenger ferry with limited or no car capacity on some runs, so you should not assume that you can always take a vehicle from Katapola to Donoussa on every departure. Many visitors choose to leave a rental car on Amorgos, visit Donoussa as a foot passenger, and then either walk or use local transfers on Donoussa, because the island is small and very walkable. If you do need to travel with a vehicle, check very carefully whether your specific sailing allows cars and reserve well in advance.
8. Foot passenger tips
   As a foot passenger, plan to arrive at Katapola port at least 45 minutes before departure, especially in peak season, since the Express Skopelitis can be busy on popular routes and boarding can feel rushed. Pack light, bring water and snacks for the roughly two hour crossing, and have your ticket and ID ready because staff will check them before boarding. On arrival in Donoussa you will disembark directly onto the small quay, so it is easy to walk straight to your accommodation if you are staying in Stavros.
9. Is this route worth it
   This route is absolutely worth it if you are looking to experience a quieter, more remote Cycladic island and you are already spending time on Amorgos. For a relatively low ticket price and a short crossing you can reach Donoussa, which offers peaceful beaches, simple tavernas, and great hiking, making it perfect for a two or three night stay or even a long day trip if the timetable allows.
10. Alternative route if cancelled
    If your Katapola to Donoussa ferry is cancelled because of bad weather or operational reasons, the most practical alternative is usually to rebook on the next Express Skopelitis sailing, as the route often runs about three times per week in season. If you must travel that day and cannot wait, you could consider travelling via Naxos or another hub using Blue Star Ferries, but this will often mean a much longer journey and possibly an overnight stay.
11. Reverse route internal links
    For the reverse crossing, travellers should check the Donoussa to Katapola (Amorgos) ferry information, which lists about three weekly sailings with an average duration of 2 hours 15 minutes, operated by Small Cyclades Lines. It is usually possible to book both directions together, which makes planning multi island itineraries in the Small Cyclades much easier.