The car ferry between Pounda (west Paros) and Antiparos is the main physical connection between the two islands. It carries passengers, vehicles, and everything else — including most of the food and supplies that Antiparos depends on through the season.
Understanding how it works saves confusion and, occasionally, an unplanned night on the wrong island.
How the schedule works
The ferry does not run to a precise fixed timetable in the way that a bus or a large ferry does. It operates on a rotation — crossing from Pounda to Antiparos, returning, crossing again — roughly every 30 to 40 minutes during the day in high season.
The practical effect is that you rarely wait more than half an hour, and often much less. In peak season (July–August), the ferry runs from approximately 6:00am to 10:00pm. In June and September, hours are similar but the frequency may reduce slightly in the evenings. In the off-season (October onward), crossings are fewer and the last crossing is earlier — confirm locally before you plan around it.
The last crossing
The last crossing from Pounda to Antiparos is typically around 10pm in summer. The last crossing from Antiparos back to Pounda may be slightly earlier. If you are spending an evening in Paros and want to return to Antiparos, be back at Pounda by 9:30pm at the latest to be safe.
If you miss the last car ferry, options are limited: private water taxis operate from Paros port and can take passengers (not vehicles) to Antiparos port for a premium fare. Arrange this at the port or through your accommodation.
Weather and cancellations
The strait between Paros and Antiparos is exposed to the meltemi — the strong northerly wind that blows through the Cyclades in July and August. When the meltemi is strong, the car ferry may reduce frequency or suspend operations temporarily.
This does not usually mean a long delay. The crossing is short and the decision to run is made crossing by crossing. Most disruptions are measured in hours rather than days. But if you have a tight onward connection, build in margin.
The passenger ferry from Parikia
Separately from the car ferry, a passenger ferry runs from Paros port (Parikia) to Antiparos port directly, several times daily. The crossing takes about 30 minutes. This is a useful option if you are already at Parikia and not bringing a vehicle — it avoids the taxi transfer to Pounda.
Check schedules locally or at the port — the passenger ferry timetable changes seasonally and is not always listed on international booking sites.
Practical notes
Tickets for the car ferry are purchased at the dock in Pounda, cash or card. In peak season, arrive with time to spare if you have a vehicle — queues can be long on summer weekends. Foot passengers generally board without waiting.
There is a small café at the Pounda dock. It is functional but not a reason to arrive early.