Corfu to Sarandë ferry
The quickest way from Greece into Albania — crossing times, passport rules, seasonal schedules and how to book the Corfu–Sarandë ferry.
The Corfu to Sarandë ferry is the easiest way to combine Greece and Albania — and for many visitors, it's how they enter the country. The crossing takes as little as 30 minutes on the fast ferry (around 70–90 minutes on the slower boat) across a narrow, scenic stretch of the Ionian.
How long does the ferry take?
There are two types of boat. The fast ferry (hydrofoil/catamaran) does the crossing in around 30 minutes. The conventional ferry takes roughly 70–90 minutes but is cheaper. In summer both run several times a day; in the shoulder and winter seasons, sailings drop sharply.
Do you need your passport?
Yes. Although the crossing is short, you're leaving the EU (Greece) and entering Albania, so bring your passport for both departure and arrival checks. Arrive at the port at least 30–45 minutes before departure to clear the process.
When do the ferries run?
| Season | Roughly what to expect |
|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Sep) | Several daily crossings, fast and conventional |
| Shoulder (Apr–May, Oct) | Fewer daily sailings — check ahead |
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | Very limited; sometimes conventional only |
Because schedules shift by season and sell out in peak summer, it's worth booking ahead rather than turning up at the port.
What's on the Albanian side?
You arrive right in Sarandë, the lively gateway to the Albanian Riviera. From there, Ksamil's beaches and the Butrint ruins are a short drive south, and Gjirokastër is inland to the north — making the ferry a perfect start to a southern Albania trip.