The ferry from Paros to Kimolos is a longer but rewarding Cycladic crossing that links busy Parikia with one of the quieter islands near Milos. Ferries usually depart from Parikia port on Paros and arrive at Psathi, the small harbour of Kimolos, which lies close to the main village and a handful of beaches and tavernas. Journey times on this route are notably longer than many other island hops, with most crossings taking between about 4 hours 15 minutes and 6 hours 55 minutes, and average durations around 5 hours 5 minutes to 5 hours 20 minutes depending on the sailing. The route is mainly operated by Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways, often using conventional vessels such as Artemis, with roughly 3 weekly sailings in the main season and fewer in winter, so planning ahead is essential. Ticket prices for foot passengers are generally very affordable, with many sources citing fares starting from around €10, making this an inexpensive way to reach a peaceful, authentic island if you are happy with the longer time at sea. Because Paros to Kimolos is a multi stop route that often calls at islands like Naxos, Ios, Sikinos or Folegandros on the way, it is a good choice for travellers who enjoy slow travel and scenic ferry journeys across the central and western Cyclades.
Key information
Ferry duration
The Paros to Kimolos ferry typically takes between about 4 hours 15 minutes and 6 hours 55 minutes, with an average journey time of roughly 5 hours 5 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes. The fastest advertised sailings, often using the vessel Artemis, complete the route in around 4 hours 15 minutes, while the longest multi stop crossings can approach 7 hours.
Ferry companies
This route is mainly operated by Blue Star Ferries, sometimes marketed together with Hellenic Seaways or Anek Superfast, making them the primary names you will see when searching for Paros to Kimolos tickets. These companies use conventional ferries on this line, offering simple but reliable services with indoor lounges, basic amenities and open deck areas rather than very fast high speed catamarans.
Fast vs slow ferry
On the Paros to Kimolos route all services are essentially conventional ferries, but there is still a difference between the quickest and slowest sailings, with the fastest around 4 hours 15 minutes and the slowest close to 6 hours 55 minutes. Faster departures tend to have fewer intermediate stops and may be more popular in high season, while longer itineraries call at several islands en route but offer more time on deck and a more relaxed pace.
Best time to travel
The best time to travel from Paros to Kimolos is from June to September, when there are usually about 3 weekly sailings and timetables are most predictable. In the off season, from October to May, the frequency can drop to around 1 weekly crossing or even fewer, so you will need to check schedules in advance and build your itinerary around the limited dates.
Sea conditions and wind
The sea between Paros and Kimolos includes open stretches of the Aegean, so the route can be influenced by the Meltemi winds in midsummer, especially in July and August, leading to choppy conditions and occasional delays. Conventional ferries like Artemis are relatively stable in wind and waves, but passengers prone to seasickness should still prepare with medication and choose indoor seating away from the bow when strong winds are forecast.
Port guide
On Paros, ferries to Kimolos depart from Parikia, the main island port, which is close to the bus station, taxi ranks, car rentals and a range of cafes and shops, so it is easy to arrive early and wait comfortably for boarding. In Kimolos, ferries arrive at Psathi port, a small harbour with limited facilities, a few accommodation options and tavernas, and road access or short transfers up to Chorio, the island’s main village.
Car rental advice
Paros to Kimolos ferries generally accept vehicles, but car deck spaces are limited and should be reserved in advance, especially for summer departures. Many travellers prefer to travel as foot passengers and then rent a small car or scooter on Kimolos or nearby Milos, given the island’s compact size and the extra cost of transporting a vehicle on a relatively long crossing.
Foot passenger tips
As a foot passenger on the Paros to Kimolos ferry, you should arrive at Parikia port at least 60 minutes before departure in high season to allow time for check in and boarding, especially as this is a longer inter island route. Because the journey can last 4 to 6 hours, pack water, snacks, sun protection and a light layer, and consider bringing a book or music so you can relax in the lounge or on deck while enjoying the changing island views.
Is this route worth it?
The ferry from Paros to Kimolos is worth it if you enjoy quieter, less developed islands and do not mind a longer crossing as the price for more peace and authenticity. Kimolos offers a relaxed atmosphere, small beaches and a traditional village feel, and this route is often used by travellers combining Paros, Milos and nearby islands in a slower, more exploratory itinerary.
Alternative route if cancelled
If your direct Paros to Kimolos ferry is cancelled or does not operate on your preferred date, a common alternative is to travel via Milos, first taking a ferry from Paros to Milos and then a short local ferry from Milos to Kimolos. This two leg journey can add time and cost but gives more flexibility, as Paros to Milos has many more weekly sailings and the Milos to Kimolos link is frequent in summer.
Reverse route internal links
The reverse route from Kimolos to Paros follows the same pattern, with around 3 weekly sailings, average journey times close to 5 hours and the same main operator, Blue Star Ferries or Hellenic Seaways, running the services. Schedules can differ slightly by direction and season, so travellers often check both Kimolos to Paros and Paros to Kimolos timetables together when planning their island hopping plans.
FAQs about the Paros to Kimolos ferry route
How long does the ferry from Paros to Kimolos usually take?
The ferry from Paros to Kimolos usually takes around 5 hours on average, with the fastest crossings at about 4 hours 15 minutes and the longest near 6 hours 55 minutes. The exact duration depends on the specific sailing, intermediate stops and any weather related adjustments to the schedule.
How often does the Paros to Kimolos ferry run in summer?
In summer the Paros to Kimolos ferry typically runs about 3 times per week, with departures often on set days such as Monday, Wednesday and Saturday or similar patterns. Because there are not daily crossings, you need to align your stay in Paros and Kimolos with the available sailing days when planning your itinerary.
What do tickets usually cost on the Paros to Kimolos route?
Ticket prices for the Paros to Kimolos ferry for foot passengers are generally low, with many sources quoting fares from around €10 for a one way ticket. Costs may increase if you select premium seating, cabins or add a vehicle, but this route remains one of the more budget friendly long crossings in the Cyclades network.
Can I make a day trip from Paros to Kimolos by ferry?
A day trip from Paros to Kimolos by scheduled ferry is not realistic, because the shortest journey time is about 4 hours 15 minutes and there is no same day return that leaves enough time on the island. Travellers who visit Kimolos from Paros normally stay at least one or two nights, using the limited weekly crossings to structure a slower visit.
Is it better to travel as a foot passenger or with a car from Paros to Kimolos?
For most travellers it is better to travel as a foot passenger on the Paros to Kimolos ferry, as the crossing is long, vehicle spaces can be limited and Kimolos itself is small and easy to explore without a car. Many visitors rely on walking, local transport, small rentals or combine Kimolos with nearby Milos, where more extensive car rentals and road networks are available.