To see Greece is to dream of wonderful islands, beautiful beaches, and old ruins. Though flying is by a long way the most common means of arriving in the nation, there is something magical about arriving by sea. To come into Greece by ferry puts you in adventure mode but drops you right into the good-feeling pulse of the Mediterranean. Whether island-hopping or destination-hopping, ferries provide a thrilling means of experiencing this fantastic corner of the globe. Find out here your ultimate guide to getting to Greece by sea.
Why Take the Ferry?
Greece ferry travel isn't a point-to-point form of travel. It's an experience to go there. The peaceful blue water of the Aegean Sea, the refreshing Mediterranean wind, and the picturesque island view as they rise above the horizon are the ingredients that make the ferry ride a unique method of traveling to Greece.
For others, taking a ferry ride is something on their bucket list. Think about getting a coffee up on deck and watching the sun set over the ocean or the excitement of getting to a destination island. Ferries to Greece are also a convenient means of getting to several destinations if you visit the islands.
Principal Ferry Routes to Greece
Greece's vast ferry network links the mainland to its many islands. Some of the important routes that are notable include:
Athens to the Islands: Most tourists to Greece start their journey in Athens, which has two principal ports—Piraeus and Rafina. Ferries to popular islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Naxos leave from Athens regularly, with routes to the Cyclades, the Saronic Islands, and so on.
Italy to Greece: When traveling from Italy, ferries leave regularly from several ports, such as Ancona, Bari, Brindisi, and Venice. Ferries cross over from Italy into Greece, usually disembarking in Igoumenitsa or Patras on the mainland. It is a good idea if you are driving within Italy already or if seeing both countries will be on your itinerary.
Crete and the Cyclades: You can get a ferry from Crete to the islands of the Cyclades, like Santorini, Paros, and Ios, which is convenient if you wish to visit more than one. The ferry is lovely as it travels along the coast with fantastic views. You may pass some other small islands as well.
Dodecanese Islands: Ferries link Rhodes to nearby Dodecanese group islands like Kos, Symi, and Patmos. The islands are ideal if you are looking for a less-touristy, peaceful aspect of Greece.
Book Your Ferry
It's simple to reserve a Greek ferry, but booking ahead of time is best if you're traveling during peak tourist season (June to September). Here's how to do it:
Online Reservation: Ferries can be booked online on portals such as FerryNav, where you can compare routes, schedules, and prices. Pre-booking is advisable during peak season, especially on popular routes such as Athens to Santorini.
Ticket Types: There are different kinds of ferry tickets, such as regular seats, business class, and cabins (for overnight or longer journeys). If you are traveling on an overnight or longer ferry journey, it is a good idea to pay extra for a cabin for convenience.
Ferry Travel Tips
Arrive Early: Ferries are typically on time, but it's a good idea to get there at least 30 minutes to an hour before departure to avoid any issues with boarding. Ports get crowded, and the extra time will help avoid last-minute hassle.
Pack for Comfort: If you'll be outdoors on deck, pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The Mediterranean sun is strong, even on cold winter days. And don't leave home without your camera—there will be lots of photo opportunities!
Sea Sickness: If seasickness is a problem, take medication before sailing or bring remedies. Ferry rides across the Aegean Sea are generally smooth, but rough seas occasionally may cause some queasiness.
Be Flexible: Ferry schedules are likely to be altered if the weather is poor or for some other unforeseen reason, so it is convenient to have your plans flexible. If you're taking a transfer ferry to an intermediate island, leave a little bit of room for wiggle room.
Relax and Enjoy the Ride: Depending on how long you're traveling or staying overnight, don't rush through the experience. Take deck time, enjoy the scenery, and take in the one-of-a-kind experience ferry travel offers.
Conclusion
Ferry travel to Greece offers a scenic and memorable way of traveling to the country, setting the tone for your whole journey. With ferryboat connections to islands throughout the Aegean and Ionian seas, it's easy to visit several of your choice spots while you're there. For the food, the culture, or the stunning coastline, going to Greece by ferryboat infuses your visit with adventure. Book that next trip and take a ferry ride—an experience you won't soon forget.
