Book Your Ferry

Athens has 3 main ferry ports (and it matters)

If you’re starting your trip in Athens, this is the part most people miss. Your ferry won’t always leave from the same port.

1) Piraeus (the big one)

Piraeus is Athens’ main ferry hub and it’s where most island-hoppers will end up. It’s busy, chaotic, and very Greek. You’ll get more routes, more departure times, and more late-night sailings from here.

Best for: Cyclades (Naxos, Paros, Syros, Ios), Crete, Dodecanese and pretty much everything.

2) Rafina (closer to the airport)

Rafina is smaller and calmer, and it can be a lifesaver if you’re landing in Athens and trying to get to the islands without crossing the whole city.

Best for: Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, and seasonal routes to a few more islands.

3) Lavrio (the quiet underdog)

Lavrio is further out, and it’s rarely someone’s first choice unless it makes their route easier or cheaper.

Best for: Kea (Tzia), Kythnos, and a handful of seasonal routes.

Insider tip: Your ticket will tell you the port, but don’t assume you can switch between them last-minute. Athens traffic does not care about your itinerary.

High-speed vs conventional ferries (what you should choose)

This is the big fork in the road.

High-speed ferries

Fast, sleek, and usually more expensive. They’re great when you’re tight on time.

Pros: quicker crossings, more day-trip friendly
Cons: pricier, more affected by wind, luggage space can feel tighter

Conventional ferries

Slower, steadier, and usually cheaper. If you get seasick or you’re travelling with kids, this is often the calmer option.

Pros: smoother ride, more space, better deck vibes
Cons: longer crossings

Cycladic Spaces rule: If it’s your first ferry day in Greece and you’re already a bit tired, choose the conventional ferry. You’ll arrive less rattled.

Ferry tickets, check-in and boarding

This part is important because Greek ferries don’t always work like flights.

Do you need to print ferry tickets?

Most ferry companies let you travel with an e-ticket on your phone. Some routes still require a printed ticket, so always check your booking email and don’t ignore the boring fine print.

Online check-in

Many operators open online check-in 48 hours to 2 hours before departure. If your booking platform gives you a check-in link, use it. If it doesn’t, you may need to collect or validate your ticket at the port.

How early should you arrive at the port?

• Conventional ferries: aim for 60 minutes early

• High-speed ferries: aim for 45 to 60 minutes early

• Peak summer (June to September): add extra buffer because ports get hectic

Tiny but important thing: Your gate can change. Don’t wander off for a last-minute koulouri and assume it’ll be fine.

Luggage, seats and the “car deck” moment

Ferry boarding is quick, and there’s always a tiny moment of chaos.

Luggage

Most passengers place bags in a luggage area near the entrance, then head upstairs. If you’ve got valuables, keep them with you. If you’ve got a suitcase that looks identical to everyone else’s, tie something on it.

Seats

Some tickets are deck seating, some are reserved. If you can upgrade to airline-style seats for a small extra cost on longer routes, it’s worth it.

The car deck

If you’re bringing a car or scooter, arrive early and follow staff directions. It’s a well-oiled system, but it’s fast.

Island hopping without stuffing up your itinerary

Greek ferry schedules change with the season and the weather, and sometimes it’s a bit… theatrical.

A few smart planning rules

1. Don’t book back-to-back connections on the same day if you’re landing in Athens and ferrying out. Give yourself breathing room.

2. Wind happens. High-speed routes are more likely to be delayed or cancelled.

3. Build in a buffer night in Athens if you’ve got a big international flight home the next day.

If you’re planning an Athens start, read our Athens Travel Guide (internal link) before you lock anything in.

Best ferry routes for first-timers

If you’re doing Greece for the first time, these are the easiest ferry moves.

• Athens (Piraeus) to Naxos

• Athens (Piraeus) to Paros

• Naxos to Paros

• Paros to Antiparos (short and sweet)

• Athens to Syros (a seriously underrated start)

Want an island that feels real but still easy? Start with our Naxos Travel Guide (internal link).

What to pack for ferry days

This is the part no one tells you.

• A light layer, even in summer, ferries love freezing aircon

• Water and snacks, port food is hit-and-miss

• Phone charger or power bank

• Motion sickness tablets if you’re even slightly prone

• Cash for random kiosk moments

FAQs about ferries in Greece

How do I book ferries in Greece?
The easiest way is to book online, compare routes, then follow the check-in instructions in your confirmation email. Summer routes sell out, so don’t leave it too late.

Should I book Greek ferries in advance?
For July and August, yes. For shoulder season (May, June, September), you’ve got more flexibility, but popular routes can still fill.

Is Piraeus easy to get to from Athens?
Yes, but allow time. It’s busy, the port is huge, and it’s not the kind of place you want to arrive at the last second.

Are ferries reliable in Greece?
Most days, yes. The main disruptions are weather-related, especially strong winds.

Do ferries get cancelled because of wind?
They can, particularly high-speed ferries. If you’re on a tight timeline, choose a conventional ferry and avoid last-day island departures before an international flight.

Can I bring luggage on a Greek ferry?
Yes. Most passengers bring suitcases and backpacks. Just keep valuables with you.

Do I need my passport for Greek ferries?
For domestic ferries, you’ll usually be asked for ID details when booking, and you may be asked to show ID when boarding. Keep your passport (or ID) accessible.

Cycladic Spaces provides travel information for general guidance. Ferry routes and schedules change seasonally, so always confirm details during booking.