Ferries are an essential part of travelling around Greece. They connect the mainland with the islands and make it possible to combine several destinations in one holiday without relying on flights for every part of the journey.
But with different routes, operators, departure times and ferry types available, choosing the right connection can take a little planning. Here are some practical things to consider before booking your next Greek ferry trip.
1. Check the Route Before Making Your Plans
Start with the route rather than the ferry company. Think about where you are travelling from, which island you want to reach and whether there are direct connections available.
Some islands have frequent connections with major ports, while smaller destinations may have fewer departures. Checking the available ferry routes in Greece first can help you build a more realistic itinerary.
2. Compare Departure Times
A convenient departure time can make a significant difference to your holiday. An early morning sailing might allow you to arrive with most of the day still ahead, while a late departure could mean losing valuable sightseeing time.
- Check the departure time.
- Check the expected arrival time.
- Consider how you will reach the port.
- Make sure the arrival time works with your accommodation.
Ferryhopper can help you compare different sailing times and connections when planning your trip.
3. Decide Between High-Speed and Conventional Ferries
Not every ferry provides the same type of journey. High-speed services can reduce travel time, which may be particularly useful when you are visiting several islands.
Conventional ferries usually take longer, but the slower journey can be part of the experience. If you are not in a hurry, spending more time at sea can be an enjoyable way to travel between destinations.
4. Consider How Many Islands You Want to Visit
Island hopping sounds exciting, but adding too many destinations can make a holiday unnecessarily complicated.
For a shorter trip, choosing two or three islands may be more practical than trying to visit five or six. This gives you more time to explore each destination instead of constantly packing and moving to the next hotel.
5. Book Popular Routes in Advance
During the summer months, some of the most popular Greek ferry routes can become busy. If your travel dates are fixed, booking earlier can give you more choice when it comes to departure times and available ticket options.
This is particularly worth considering if you are travelling with a car or planning to use a specific sailing.
6. Check Vehicle Requirements
Planning to explore an island by car? Check the ferry’s vehicle availability before booking your passenger ticket.
Vehicle spaces can be limited, and the booking process may differ from travelling as a foot passenger. Confirm the requirements and make sure your vehicle details are entered correctly.
7. Give Yourself Enough Time at the Port
Ports can become busy, especially during the peak summer season. Arriving early gives you time to find the correct boarding area, organise your luggage and avoid unnecessary last-minute stress.
If you are travelling with a vehicle, allow additional time for the boarding process.
8. Pack for a Comfortable Ferry Journey
For a short crossing, you may not need much more than your phone and travel documents. Longer journeys are different, and a few simple items can make the experience more comfortable.
- Water
- Snacks
- Phone charger or power bank
- Light jacket
- Headphones
- Travel documents
9. Leave Some Flexibility in Your Itinerary
When planning an island-hopping holiday, avoid making every part of your schedule depend on a perfectly timed ferry arrival.
Leaving some space between your ferry journey and important activities gives you more flexibility if your plans change or the journey takes longer than expected.
10. Compare Before You Book
The cheapest ticket is not necessarily the best option. Look at the price alongside the departure time, journey duration, ferry type and conditions attached to the ticket.
Taking a few minutes to compare ferry tickets and schedules can help you find a connection that actually fits your holiday.
Final Checklist
Before completing your booking, check these details:
- Correct departure and arrival ports
- Date and departure time
- Total journey duration
- Passenger details
- Vehicle availability, if required
- Ticket conditions
- Travel arrangements to and from the ports
Make Ferry Travel Part of the Adventure
Travelling by ferry is more than simply getting from one island to another. It gives you the chance to slow down, enjoy views of the coastline and experience another side of travelling through Greece.
With a little preparation and a careful comparison of routes and schedules, it can become one of the easiest and most enjoyable parts of an island holiday. Ferryhopper is one option for comparing Greek ferry connections when putting your itinerary together.
