Ferries in Greece – The most ridiculously in-depth guide to Greek ferries

This guide to ferries in Greece will help you easily plan a trip to the Greek islands. Includes information about Greek ferries, how to book online, and more!

Greek Ferry Guide

If you are visiting Greece on vacation, chances are that you will get one of the numerous ferries in Greece. What are these ferries like though?

This guide aims to introduce you to Greek ferries, and help you choose which one to take.

Before you dive in, you should know that this guide is perhaps the most ridiculously in-depth guide to Greek ferry island hopping there is! It includes tips and advice from our years of Greek island hopping, as well as information about practically every ferry in Greece!

Overwhelmed already? If you've arrived at this page and simply want to book a ferry ticket in Greece online, click here >> Ferryscanner

If you want to learn more about Greece ferry travel though, read on!

Note: We can’t thank enough the amazing Dimitris Mentakis who graciously offered us some of his fantastic photos to use in our articles. He is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate when it comes to ferries in Greece, and his photos are in hundreds of Greek articles. Thanks Dimitris!

Where do Greek ferries travel to?

Ferries travel pretty much everywhere in Greece. They connect the islands with the mainland, and they travel between islands in the same island group. They also connect certain island groups with each other.

The Athens – Mykonos – Santorini combination is a popular travel combination in Greece, but there are countless other possibilities.

In addition, a number of ferries travel between Greece and the nearby countries, such as Italy and Turkey. The ferries going to Italy may stop at a few Greek ports on the way.

Ferry itineraries in Greece vary by season. There are more routes in summer, when high-speed ferries also operate on certain routes. In winter, many of these ferries stop running, and bigger, slower ferries operate instead.

Tickets for most of these ferries can be booked in advance. Our favourite website to compare Greek ferries and book ferry tickets in Greece is Ferryhopper.

Ferries from Athens ports to the Greek islands

The capital city, Athens, has three main ports, Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrion. They are all easily accessible from Athens by public transportation or taxi.

First time visitors to Greece may find it easier to arrange connections with Greek ferries with pre-booked taxis. I recommend Welcome Taxis.

Ferries departing from the Athens ports connect the capital with the following island groups:

• Hydra, Spetses and the Argosaronic islands
• Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Naxos and all the other Cyclades islands in Greece
• Rhodes, Patmos and the rest of the Dodecanese
• Chios, Lesvos and the Northeastern Aegean islands
• Greece’s biggest island, Crete
• Evia, which can also be reached by land

It is possible to travel between some of these island groups by ferry. As an example, Crete is directly connected to many of the Cyclades islands. Similarly, some of the Cyclades are connected to the Dodecanese, and to certain Northeastern Aegean islands.

It is not always possible to travel directly between islands of the same group. Even islands that look very close on the map may not be directly connected at all. For instance, the increasingly popular island of Antiparos can only be reached through the island of Paros.

In other cases, islands within the same group may only be directly connected a few times per week. A good example are Sifnos and Syros, both in the Cyclades.

You can check itineraries and book your tickets at Ferryhopper. 

Ferries departing from mainland Greece

Not all islands are accessible via ferries departing from Athens, but there are other ports in mainland Greece. 

The Sporades islands, including Skiathos and Skopelos, can be reached through mainland Greece. You’d have to leave from Volos or the small port of Agios Konstantinos near Kamena Vourla. The Sporades are also connected with Evia island.

The Ionian islands are a separate group, located west of mainland Greece. They can be approached on ferries from Patras, Kyllini and Igoumenitsa in Western Greece. For people pushed for time, flying might be easier.

Finally, certain islands can also be approached on ferries from the northern ports. Kavala port is connected with islands like Lemnos, Lesvos, Chios, and certain islands in the Dodecanese. Ferries from Alexandroupolis port depart for Samothraki island.

Can you book all Greek ferries online?

When it comes to booking ferries in Greece, most main routes can be booked online.

Apart from the Greek ferry routes mentioned above though, there are hundreds of other ferry services in Greece. As many of those boats are small, you may not be able to find much information online.

As an example, the popular Paros – Antiparos route does not appear on search engines. We assure you that this route is served by two different ferries, many times a day.

For such routes, you can only get your tickets in person, at the port. These vessels are rarely full, so you will generally get a ticket for the next ferry available.

Similarly, many around-the-island boat trips cannot be booked online. You might be able to contact the captain before your arrival, however it’s not always necessary.

In most cases, you will be able to book a last-minute trip around the island as soon as you arrive on the island, or even the evening before your trip.

Tip – if you are interested in a boat / sailing trip during the peak season, consider the meltemi winds. These are strong seasonal winds that can occasionally disrupt services. Even if the boat departs, you might not want to be on it on a very windy day!

Can I get an e-ticket for a Greek ferry?

Many ferry companies in Greece offer an e-ticket option. This means that you can buy your ticket and either download it on your phone or get it printed if you prefer. This is very convenient, especially if you are buying your boat tickets when you are in Greece already.

At the time of writing (summer 2020), some companies don’t offer an e-ticket option. This means that you can book your ferry ticket online, but you would need to collect your ticket at the port prior to your departure.

Alternatively, if you are staying at a hotel in Athens before your island trip, Ferryhopper can deliver them to your hotel for a small fee.

In all cases, check each company’s policy at time of booking, as these tend to change from time to time.

To get your ticket for the Greek islands, click here: Ferryhopper Greece

What seating options do I have on Greek ferries?

Seating options on Greek ferries vary widely and depend on the type of vessel.

Smaller, faster ferries only have indoor seating options. Sometimes there may be more than one type of seat, such as standard, business and VIP. While some people might find the upgrade more comfortable, it depends on the ferry.

Medium-sized highspeed ferries also have reserved indoors seating. Again, there are more than one types of seats. If comfort is an issue, you might want an upgrade, especially if you are travelling in peak season. You may be able to stand on the deck for a while, but in general you won’t find designated seating areas on the deck.

Finally, the conventional passenger / car ferries have all sorts of seats. The economy / deck option gives you the right to sit anywhere on the deck, or in designated indoors areas. If you aren’t prepared to fight for your seat, booking reserved “airplane” seats might be the best option for you. You will have your own seat and will still be able to walk around most areas of the ferry.

For longer trips, or on overnight routes, you could also consider getting a cabin. There are different types of cabins, which have anywhere from one to four beds. The most luxurious (and expensive) options are normally cabins with a sea view.

How fast do Greek ferry boats travel?

There are many different types of ferries in Greece, travelling at different speeds. Rather than kilometres or miles per hour, ferry speed is measured in knots. One knot is 1.852 kms or 1.15 miles.

Most conventional ferries run at a speed of 20-25 knots per hour, which translates to 37-45 kms / 23-29 miles per hour.

By comparison, highspeed vessels can reach 38-40 knots per hour, or 70-74 kms / 44-46 miles per hour. Some of them, however, travel a lot faster. One example is the Worldchampion Jet operated by SeaJets – more on this below.

Can you get food and drinks on Greece ferry services?

Ferries connecting the Greek islands have a range of facilities. Generally speaking, the smaller ferries would have a snack bar and café. The larger ones that make longer trips have also fully functional restaurants with many different meal choices.

Coffees, snacks and meals prices are slightly inflated, but all things considered they are not too expensive. You can always bring your own snacks though, especially if you are following a specific diet.

As an indication, a coffee would cost 3-4 euro and a cheesepie or sandwich could be around 3 euro. A seated meal might be around 10 euro, though some ferries have more upmarket options. Water price is regulated by the government, so a small bottle costs 50 cents.

Are there any toilets on Greek ferries?

Well of course! All ferries listed in this article have toilets. In our experience they are mostly clean, and in our trips in the past few years there was toilet paper at all times. However, this may change occasionally – and like anywhere in Greece, it doesn’t hurt to carry some tissue just in case.

Some ferries also have baby changing facilities and even showers. Cabins have their own private shower and toilet facilities.

Do Greek island ferries have Wi-Fi?

Many of the larger ferries have wi-fi services, though it’s not always free. It’s best to check the specific ferry you are interested in.

Also, remember that the ferries will occasionally be far from the mainland. Don’t expect the signal to be great. Even better, take the chance to unplug, sit on the deck and look at the beautiful blue sea!

Can I bring my car on a ferry in Greece?

All bigger ferries, as well as many of the high-speed ones, carry vehicles. The boarding and unboarding procedure can be quite chaotic, and perhaps even intimidating. There is generally lots of shouting, as the ferry employees try to get everyone on and off board as quickly as possible.

Note that if you are renting a car in Greece, it is not always possible to take it on a ferry. In fact, it’s not a good idea, as it would cost you a lot more. It’s best to rent a car in every island you travel to.

Greek island ferry companies

If you have been to Greece before, you will know that there are dozens of companies operating in the country. We've included all of them in the list below, and most of the ferries can be booked online.

Within each company’s section, you will also find a brief description of the vessels they operate. This will help you decide which one to choose.

As you will see, in most cases we have not included the exact islands that these ferries cover. This is because the routes that the ferries operate on change from year to year.

In fact, sometimes, Greek ferries are sold to other Greek companies. In these cases, they are usually renamed and renovated. Occasionally, they are bought by foreign companies and sent abroad.

How to use this Greek ferries guide

If you know which ferry you are planning to travel with, you can hit “Control+F” on your browser. This will bring up a search box, where you can type the name of the ferry. Then you will be taken to a section with some information about it.

If you want to know more about a specific ferry company, you can search for its name in the same way. Alternatively, you can just click the links above.

1. SeaJets – Athens to the Cyclades and Crete

The SeaJets company run 15 highspeed vessels and 2 conventional ferries from Athens to the Cyclades and Crete. These ferries range from smaller boats with no vehicle capacity to a few that are over 100 metres long.

The highspeed SeaJets have no deck option, so you will be indoors for the duration of your trip. They all have different types of reserved seats, while none of them have cabins. Tickets tend to be on the expensive side, but if time is important they are a good option.

We are listing all of the highspeed SeaJet ferries below, starting from the largest one. Most of them are catamarans, which means that they have two parallel hulls, improving their stability. Tera Jet and Paros Jet, the two largest vessels, are monohulls.

1a. Highspeed SeaJets with vehicle capacity

You may not have your own vehicle, so you wouldn’t really care whether the ferry carries vehicles or not. However, the bigger the ferry, the steadier it will generally be when the weather gets windy.

Tera Jet – Monohull
Built: 1999, Italy
Length: 145 metres
Speed: 40 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,000
Vehicle capacity: 500

Paros Jet – Monohull
Built: 1996, Italy
Length: 103 metres
Speed: 37 knots
Passenger capacity: 850
Vehicle capacity: 150

Worldchampion Jet
Built: 2000, Australia
Length: 87 metres
Speed: 50 knots – this is 92 kms / 57.5 miles per hour!
Passenger capacity: 1,310
Vehicle capacity: 222

Champion Jet 1 and Champion Jet 2
Built: 1997, Australia
Length: 87 metres
Speed: 40 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,000
Vehicle capacity: 200

PowerJet
Built: 1996, Australia
Length: 82.30 metres
Speed: 38 knots
Passenger capacity: 800
Vehicle capacity: 150

MegaJet
Built: 1996, Australia
Length: 77.5 metres
Speed: 33 knots
Passenger capacity: 845
Vehicle capacity: 150

HSC CAT
Built: 1990, Australia
Length: 74 metres
Speed: 37 knots
Passenger capacity: 700
Vehicle capacity: 50

High Speed Jet (formerly Speedrunner I)
Built: 1990, Australia
Length: 74 metres
Speed: 37 knots
Passenger capacity: 600
Vehicle capacity: 75

Master Jet, also known as Caldera Vista
Built: 1991, Australia
Length: 74 metres
Speed: 37 knots
Passenger capacity: 700
Vehicle capacity: 85

Naxos Jet
Built: 1991, Australia
Length: 74 metres
Speed: 37 knots
Passenger capacity: 700
Vehicle capacity: 75

Andros Jet
Built: 1997, Australia
Length: 60 metres
Speed: 36 knots
Passenger capacity: 600
Vehicle capacity: 75

1b. Highspeed SeaJets without vehicle capacity

SeaJets also operates three smaller catamarans, that have no vehicle capacity. These ferries are better for shorter trips, as the ride can be a little bumpy. We would prefer to avoid them for longer trips, but they could be ok for shorter trips between the islands.

Sifnos Jet
Built: 1999, Australia
Length: 52.4 metres
Speed: 38 knots
Passenger capacity: 500

SuperJet
Built: 1995, Finland
Length: 42 metres
Speed: 38 knots
Passenger capacity: 394

SeaJet 2
Built: 1998, Norway
Length: 42 metres
Speed: 38 knots
Passenger capacity: 386

1c. Conventional ferries run by the SeaJets company

SeaJets also operates two conventional ferries, that are ideal for people looking for budget options. These ferries also have cabins. If you are not in a hurry, you will enjoy your trip on these ferries.

Aqua Blue
Built: 1975, Japan, refurbished in 1995 and 2016.
Length: 127.6 metres
Speed: 23 knots
Passenger capacity: 1300
Vehicle capacity: 400

We have actually travelled on this ferry a few times, even during very windy weather, and were quite happy with it. It used to belong to different companies in the past, and has been renamed a couple of times.

Aqua Jewel
Built: 2002, Greece
Length: 108 metres
Speed: 20 knots
Passenger capacity: 661
Vehicle capacity: 160

For more information and photos of these highspeed ferries, you can check out the SeaJets website.

2. Blue Star Ferries – Athens to the Cyclades and the Dodecanese

Blue Star Ferries are one of the most popular and well-known companies in Greece. They operate several large passenger / car ferries in the Aegean. They are part of the Attica Group of ferries, alongside Hellenic Seaways and Superfast Ferries. 

All of these ferries are big, conventional ferries, with plenty of deck space, cabins and large garages. There are many cafes and restaurants on board, and you can walk around most areas.

Blue Galaxy
Built: 1992, Japan
Length: 192 metres
Speed: 24 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,790
Vehicle capacity: 780
Cabins: 176

Blue Horizon
Built: 1987, Japan
Length: 187.1 metres
Speed: 24.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,488
Vehicle capacity: 780
Cabins: 164

Blue Star 1
Built: 2000, Netherlands
Length: 176.1 metres
Speed: 28 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,890
Vehicle capacity: 780
Cabins: 192

Blue Star 2
Built: 2000, Netherlands
Length: 176.1 metres
Speed: 28 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,854
Vehicle capacity: 780
Cabins: 176

Blue Star Patmos
Built: 2012, South Korea
Length: 145.9 metres
Speed: 25.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,000
Vehicle capacity: 430
Cabins: 90

Blue Star Delos
Built: 2011, South Korea
Length: 145.9 metres
Speed: 25.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,400
Vehicle capacity: 430
Cabins: 32

Diagoras
Built: 1989, Japan
Length: 141.5 metres
Speed: 21.1 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,462
Vehicle capacity: 274
Cabins: 131

Blue Star Chios (formerly Nissos Chios)
Built: 2007, Greece
Length: 141 metres
Speed: 27 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 1,782, winter 1,213
Vehicle capacity: 418
Cabins: 72

Blue Star Mykonos (formerly Nissos Mykonos)
Built: 2005, Greece
Length: 141 metres
Speed: 26.5 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 1,915, winter 1,274
Vehicle capacity: 418
Cabins: 29

Blue Star Paros and Blue Star Naxos
Built: 2002, South Korea
Length: 124.2 metres
Speed: 24.4 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,474
Vehicle capacity: 240
Cabins: 26

More here: Bluestar Ferries

3. Hellenic Seaways – Athens to several groups of islands in the Aegean Sea

Like Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways is operated under the umbrella company called Attica Group. They run four types of ferries, travelling all around the Aegean.

For 2020, they travel to the Cyclades, the Sporades, the Argosaronic islands, Northeastern Aegean islands, Crete and the Dodecanese. Their ferries differ a lot between them, ranging from large conventional ferries to small vessels.

3a. Hellenic Seaways – Conventional ferries

This is a range of moderately priced ferries for visitors who like to take their time. They run on different routes around Greece. Facilities vary widely, as do seating arrangements and cabin options.

Ariadne
Built: 1995, Japan
Length: 195.95 metres
Speed: 24 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,045
Vehicle capacity: 640
Cabins: 145

Nissos Samos
Built: 1988, Japan
Length: 192.9 metres
Speed: 20.5 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 2,202, winter 1,578
Vehicle capacity: 730
Cabins: 108

Nissos Rodos
Built: 1987, Japan
Length: 192.5 metres
Speed: 22 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 2,210, winter 1,683
Vehicle capacity: 748
Cabins: 98

Express Pegasus
Built: 1977, Italy
Length: 125.7 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 1,294, winter 1,092
Vehicle capacity: 185
Cabins: 8

Artemis
Built: 1997, Greece
Length: 89.8 metres
Speed: 19.2 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 748, winter 590
Vehicle capacity: 65

Express Skiathos
Built: 1996, Greece
Length: 77.9 metres
Speed: 18.5 knots
Passenger capacity: summer 1,013, winter 695
Vehicle capacity: 175

3b. Hellenic Seaways – Highspeed ferries

These vessels are much faster than the conventional ones. Like other high-speed ferries, they have no deck or cabin options.

Hellenic Highspeed – Monohull
Built: 1996, Italy
Length: 100 metres
Speed: 34 knots
Passenger capacity: 724
Vehicle capacity: 175

Highspeed 4 – Catamaran
Built: 2000, Australia
Length: 92.4 metres
Speed: 38 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,010
Vehicle capacity: 188

3c. Hellenic Seaways – Flying Cats

The company operates four catamaran vessels in this category. They are called Flying Cat 3, 4, 5 and 6, which some people would think is slightly unimaginative.

All these vessels are fairly small, and have no deck options, cabins or vehicle capacity. We would prefer to avoid them on a long trip, as it could end up being a bumpy ride. If you like walking around ferries and enjoying the deck, or if you get seasick easily, you might prefer to avoid them as well.

Flying Cat 4
Built: 1999, England
Length: 55.1 metres
Speed: 42 knots
Passenger capacity: 438

Flying Cat 3
Built: 1997, England
Length: 47.7 metres
Speed: 42 knots
Passenger capacity: 342

Flying Cat 5
Built: 1996, Norway
Length: 40 metres
Speed: 28 knots
Passenger capacity: 336

Flying Cat 6
Built: 1997, Singapore
Length: 40 metres
Speed: 28 knots
Passenger capacity: 336

3d. Hellenic Seaways – Flying Dolphins

These are some of the smallest passenger catamarans in the Aegean, named Flying Dolphin 17 and 29. Who knows how many they were to begin with!

In our experience, they are not super pleasant to travel on when the seas are rough, but this may be your only option. Your trip is unlikely to be very long, so you should be fine.

Flying Dolphin 17
Built: 1984, Russia
Length: 34.50 metres
Speed: 35 knots
Passenger capacity: 130

Flying Dolphin 29
Built: 1991, Russia
Length: 34.25 metres
Speed: 35 knots
Passenger capacity: 130

For more information: Hellenic Seaways

4. Golden Star Ferries – Athens to the Cyclades

Golden Star Ferries currently operate two conventional ferries, one of which has cabins. They also have four high-speed ferries, two of which can carry vehicles.

Superferry II
Built: 1974, Belgium
Length: 121.7 metres
Speed: 21 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,630
Vehicle capacity: 250
Cabins: Yes

Superferry
Built: 1995, Japan
Length: 121 metres
Speed: 21 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,760
Vehicle capacity: 280

Superrunner (formerly Speedrunner IV)
Built: 1999, Italy
Length: 100.4 metres
Speed: 33 knots
Passenger capacity: 810
Vehicle capacity: 180

Superexpress
Built: 1998
Length: 91 metres
Speed: 35 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,070
Vehicle capacity: 200

Superspeed
Built: 2002
Length: 54.5 metres
Speed: 33 knots
Passenger capacity: 400

Supercat
Built: 2000
Length: 45.36 metres
Speed: 35 knots
Passenger capacity: 400

For more information on the Golden Star Ferries, visit their website.

5. Aegean Speed Lines – Ferry to the Cyclades

Aegean Speed Lines operate a large high-speed ferry, Speedrunner III, to the Cyclades. There is a range of seating arrangements, and no cabins.

Speedrunner III
Built: 1999, Italy
Length: 100.4 metres
Speed: 34 knots
Passenger capacity: 800
Vehicle capacity: 170

You can find more information about the Speedrunner III here.

6. Fast Ferries – Athens to the Cyclades

Fast Ferries run three conventional ferries to the Cyclades. There are no cabin options, but there is availability for vehicles. They are a great budget option.

You will easily spot these photogenic ferries departing from Rafina port, as they are all bright red.

Ekaterini P.
Built: 1990, Japan
Length: 121.5 metres
Speed: 21 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,127
Vehicle capacity: 240

Theologos P.
Built: 2000, Japan
Length: 118.1 metres
Speed: 22 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,154
Vehicle capacity: 300

Fast Ferries Andros
Built: 1989, Japan
Length: 115 metres
Speed: 19.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,200
Vehicle capacity: 280

Check them out here.

7. Sea Speed Ferries – Athens to the Cyclades and Crete

Sea Speed Ferries currently operate one conventional passenger / car ferry called Olympus. It’s a reasonably priced alternative to some faster ferries.

For 2020, this ferry connects Milos, Santorini and Rethymno in Crete a few times per week.

Olympus
Built: 1976, Japan
Length: 141.7 metres
Speed: 16.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,000
Vehicle capacity: 450
Cabins: Yes

8. Zante Ferries – Slow ferries to the Cyclades islands

You would have thought that Zante Ferries travel to the Ionian islands, but no. These two slow ferries connect several of the lesser visited Cyclades islands, including Kimolos, Sikinos and Folegandros.

They are a great budget option for people who are not in a hurry. We can’t wait to use them this summer!

Dionysios Solomos
Built: 1987, refurbished in 2012
Length: 121.5 metres
Speed: 19.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,030
Vehicle capacity: 300
Number of beds: 40

Adamantios Korais
Built: 1987
Length: 100 metres
Speed: 18.3 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,100
Vehicle capacity: 390
Number of beds: 44

The company is also supposed to launch a ferry connecting Alexandroupolis port with the island of Samothraki. This ferry is called Proteas, currently operating by Anes ferries. Watch this space!

9. Small Cyclades Lines – Naxos, Amorgos and the Small Cyclades

This family company operates one of the most iconic ferries in the Aegean, Express Skopelitis. This small ferry connects Naxos with Amorgos and the Small Cyclades – Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonissi and Donoussa.

It’s a basic little ferry, providing invaluable service for these off-the-beaten-track islands. For summer 2020, It also goes to Santorini and Ios once a week.

Express Skopelitis
Built: 1986
Length: 45 metres
Speed: 12.3 knots
Passenger capacity: 340
Vehicle capacity: 11

10. ANEK Lines – The Cyclades, Crete, the Dodecanese and Italy

ANEK Lines operate some of the largest ferries in Greece. Their destinations include Crete and the Dodecanese. Some of their ferries go to Italy, connecting Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu with the Italian ports.

All their ferries are pretty massive, and they have capacity for many hundreds of visitors and vehicles. Some of them serve very long routes, and travelling on them can be quite an experience.

These are the ANEK ferries currently running in Greece.

Olympic Champion
Built: 2000, Norway
Length: 204 metres
Speed: 30 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,833
Vehicle capacity: 670
Number of beds: 808

Hellenic Spirit
Built: 2001, Norway
Length: 204 metres
Speed: 30 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,850
Vehicle capacity: 670
Number of beds: 710

Asterion II (also known as Grand Spring)
Built: 1991, Japan
Length: 192.5 metres
Speed: 22 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,020
Vehicle capacity: 840
Number of beds: 451

Elyros
Built: 1998, Japan
Length: 192 metres
Speed: 24 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,874
Vehicle capacity: 620
Number of beds: 776

Kriti II
Built: 1979, Japan
Length: 192 metres
Speed: 23 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,500
Vehicle capacity: 719
Number of beds: 468

Kriti I
Built: 1979, Japan
Length: 192 metres
Speed: 22 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,500
Vehicle capacity: 650
Number of beds: 468

El. Venizelos
Built: 1992, Poland
Length: 175.5 metres
Speed: 21 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,500
Vehicle capacity: 850
Number of beds: 1,606

Prevelis (ANEK / Aegeon Pelagos)
Built: 1980, Japan
Length: 142.5 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: 927
Vehicle capacity: 310
Number of beds: 251

For more information, check out their website.

11. Minoan Lines – Athens to Crete and the Cyclades, Greece – Italy routes

Minoan Lines operate some of the most luxurious ferries in Greece. They also serve some Greece – Italy routes, connecting Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu with Venice and Ancona.

Within Greece, Minoan Lines travel to many of the Cyclades, and also Heraklion and Chania in Crete. They have three large, conventional ferries, and a faster catamaran.

The bigger ferries are the most luxurious we have been on. There is plenty of space, and there are several cafes, restaurants and bars on board.

There are several seat options, as well as a range of cabins. On-board you can also find stores where you can buy a range of items, like souvenirs, clothes, cosmetics and books.

Cruise Europa
Built: 2009, Italy
Length: 225 metres
Speed: 27.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,850
Vehicle capacity: 963
Number of beds: 1,257

Cruise Olympia
Built: 2010, Italy
Length: 225 metres
Speed: 27.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,850
Vehicle capacity: 963
Number of beds: 1,257

Festos Palace
Built: 2002, Italy
Length: 214 metres
Speed: 31.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,184 in summer / 1,865 in winter
Vehicle capacity: 821
Number of beds: 744

Knossos Palace
Built: 2000, Italy
Length: 214 metres
Speed: 31.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,500 in summer / 2,448 in winter
Vehicle capacity: 700
Number of beds: 758

Kydon Palace
Built: 2001, Italy
Length: 214 metres
Speed: 31.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 2,500 in summer / 2,448 in winter
Vehicle capacity: 700
Number of beds: 758

The Santorini Palace is a faster catamaran with no cabin or deck options. There are different types of seats you can choose from.

Santorini Palace / Catamaran
Built: 2005, Australia, refurbished in 2016
Length: 85 metres
Speed: 38 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,160
Vehicle capacity: 117

For more information on these ferries, you can check the Minoan Lines website.

Look also at How to get from Athens to Crete

12. Superfast Ferries – Greece to Italy

Superfast Ferries are part of the Attica Group of ferries, alongside Hellenic Seaways and Blue Star Ferries. They connect Greece and Italy, and their Greek ports of call are Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu.

Superfast Ferries are currently running three large ferries with capacity for many hundreds of visitors and vehicles.

Superfast I
Built: 2008, Italy
Length: 199 metres
Speed: 24.2 knots
Passenger capacity: 938
Vehicle capacity: 170
Number of cabins: 102

Superfast II
Built: 2009, Italy
Length: 199 metres
Speed: 24.2 knots
Passenger capacity: 938
Vehicle capacity: 170
Number of cabins: 102

Superfast XI
Built: 2002, Germany
Length: 200 metres
Speed: 29 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,821
Vehicle capacity: 900
Number of cabins: 198

13. Ventouris Ferries – Greece to Italy

Ventouris Ferries operate a few large ferries between Greece, Italy and Albania. For 2020, their ferries Rigel I and Rigel VII will run the route Patras – Igoumenitsa on their way to Bari in Italy.

Rigel VII
Built: 1994, Japan
Length: 163.5 metres
Speed: 22.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 775
Vehicle capacity: Yes
Cabins: Yes

Rigel I
Built: 1973
Length: 122 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,120
Vehicle capacity: 330
Number of beds: 550

14. Levante Ferries – Ionian islands

Levante Ferries currently operate four bright yellow ferries among the ports of Patras, Kyllini and the Ionian islands. Some of them have recently been bought from other shipping companies, and refurbished.

These ferries have no cabins, and they all have vehicle capacity. Interestingly, Fior di Levante can run on electric power.

Kefalonia (formerly known as Nisos Kefalonia)
Built: 1975, Japan. Refurbished in 2019
Length: 120.8 metres
Speed: 21 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,134
Vehicle capacity: 324

Mare di Levante
Built: 1984, Japan
Length: 120.2 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,068
Vehicle capacity: 350

Fior di Levante
Built: 1998
Length: 118.8 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,140
Vehicle capacity: 300

Andreas Kalvos
Built: 1985, refurbished in 2019
Length: 98.6 metres
Speed: 17.5 knots
Passenger and vehicle ferry

This is their website.

15. Kefalonian Lines – Ionian islands

This small company is due to operate one ferry for summer 2020. Alexandra L will connect Patras, Killini and the Ionian islands. 

Alexandra L (formerly known as Mirtidiotissa)
Built: 1975, Japan
Length: 101.25 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: 750 summer, 604 winter
Vehicle capacity: 240

16. Corfu Ferries, Kerkyra Seaways & Kerkyra Lines – Igoumenitsa > Corfu > Paxi

These companies are running several routes a day between Igoumenitsa port in mainland Greece, Corfu (known in Greek as Kerkyra) and the small island of Paxi, also known or Paxos.

Guide here: How to get to Paxos island in Greece

At time of writing, the status of the companies is a little unclear, and they seem to be merging up. Here is a list of all the small ferries running these routes.

The ferries running the routes are all different in size and shape, but they all carry passengers and vehicles. For more information on what they look like, you can check the company websites.

In some cases, online booking through Ferryhopper might not be available. You should be able to find passenger seats once you get there, or maybe book through the company websites.

Ionas
Built: 1989
Length: 93.8 metres
Speed: 10.8 knots
Passenger and vehicle capacity

Agios Spyridon
Built: 2000
Length: 81.5 metres
Speed: 12 knots
Passenger and vehicle capacity

Agia Irini
Built: 1970
Length: 80.4 metres
Speed: 11.6 knots
Passenger and vehicle capacity

Eleni
Built: 1970
Length: 77.8 metres
Speed: 9.7 knots
Passenger and vehicle capacity

Nanti
Built: 1973
Length: 66 metres
Speed: 11.1 knots
Passenger and vehicle capacity

Ano Hora II
Length: 104 metres
Passenger capacity: 797
Vehicle capacity: 220

Nikolaos
Length: 95.8 metres
Passenger capacity: 650
Vehicle capacity: 160

Dorieus
Length: 93.8 metres
Passenger capacity: 585
Vehicle capacity: 150

Agia Theodora
Length: 85 metres
Passenger capacity: 732
Vehicle capacity: 160

Kerkyra Express
Length: 76.6 metres
Passenger capacity: 588
Vehicle capacity: 90

Alkinoos
Length: 73.9 metres
Passenger capacity: 590
Vehicle capacity: 100

Kerkyra
Length: 72.4 metres
Passenger capacity: 478
Vehicle capacity: 90

Menekratis
Length: 70 metres
Passenger capacity: 490
Vehicle capacity: 90

Evdokia
Length: 44.4 metres
Passenger capacity: 300
Vehicle capacity: 20

For more information, and to check out some of the ferry photos, you can visit the company websites:
Corfu ferries 
Kerkyra Seaways 
Kerkyra Lines 

17. Anes Ferries – Local routes around Greece

Anes Ferries are a small company, running small and medium-sized ferries around Greece.

Agios Nektarios
This small ferry can carry up to 600 passengers and 90 vehicles from Piraeus to Aegina.

Proteas / Proteus
This local ferry connects Volos port to the Sporades island and Evia. Proteas is 87 metres long and can carry up to 372 passengers and 110 vehicles. There is currently news that this ferry will be used in the Alexandroupoli – Samothraki route. Watch this space!

Symi
Symi connects Agios Konstantinos Evia and Volos with the Sporades islands. It has a fairly large passenger capacity, at 780 people. There is also availability for 60 vehicles.

Sebeco
Sebeco is a small, passenger-only vessel that can accommodate up to 200 passengers. It currently travels from Rhodes to the small island of Symi.

18. Skyros Shipping Co – Evia and Sporades

Skyros Lines operates a passenger / car ferry, Achilleas, from Kymi in Evia to Skyros, Skopelos and Alonnisos. This route might not always appear on Ferryhopper.

Achilleas
Built: 1987, Japan, refurbished in 2004
Length: 96.6 metres
Speed: 14.8 knots
Passenger capacity: 600 summer / 520 winter
Vehicle capacity: 160

19. Triton / Avlemonas Ferries – Kea and Kythira

Triton Ferries operate two small ferries. Ionis departs from Lavrio port, and goes to Kea (Tzia) and Kythnos. Porfyrousa connects Neapoli in the Peloponnese, Kythira and Antikythera.

Ionis
Built: 1977, Greece
Length: 96.30 metres
Speed: 19 knots
Passenger capacity: 800
Vehicle capacity: 150

Porfyrousa
Built: 1997, Turkey
Length: 75.5 metres
Speed: 13 knots
Passenger capacity: 300
Vehicle capacity: 150

20. Goutos Lines – Athens to Kea and Kythnos

Goutos Lines run a passenger / car ferry from Lavrio port to the nearby island of Kea, or Tzia.

Macedon
Built: 1972
Length: 90 metres
Speed: 16 knots
Passenger capacity: 457
Vehicle capacity: Yes

21. Saronic ferries – Ferries to the Saronic islands

Like the name suggests, this company operates four ferries to the Saronic islands of Aegina, Agistri, Methana and Poros.

Phivos
Built: 1980
Length: 100 metres
Speed: 15.5 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,200
Vehicle capacity: 120

Apollon Hellas
Built: 1990
Length: 91.80 metres
Speed: 14.7 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,380
Vehicle capacity: 100

Achaeos
Built: 2007
Length: 87.7 metres
Speed: 14.3 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,000
Vehicle capacity: 140

Posidon Hellas
Built: 1998
Length: 86 metres
Speed: 14.9 knots
Passenger capacity: 1,300
Vehicle capacity: 74

22. Aegean Flying Dolphins – Ferries to the Saronic islands and the Sporades

These small vessels travel around the Saronic islands and the Sporades. At the time of writing, the company lists four similar flying dolphins, that are 35 metres each. They are all named after ancient Greek gods – Zeus, Hermes, Athena and Venus I.

23. Panorama – Rafina to Marmari in Evia

This company operates one ferry, called Panorama, from Rafina to Marmari in South Evia. It’s a fairly large (101 metres) ferry with passenger and vehicle capacity.

Schedules change from season to season. If you are not able to book tickets on ferryhopper, you will be able to get them directly at Rafina port. Just get there an hour earlier or so.

24. ANE Kalymnou – Rhodes to Chalki in the Dodecanese

This local company operates three vessels around the Dodecanese. It even connects some of the minor islands, though routes are not on a daily basis.

Nissos Kalymnos is a medium-sized ferry (62 metres), with passenger and vehicle capacity.

Kalymnos Star and Kalymnos Dolphin are small passenger vessels, for short trips.

For more information, check their website. 

25. Dodekanisos Seaways – Dodecanese islands

This company operates one ferry and two high-speed catamarans connecting the islands of the Dodecanese.

Panagia Skiadeni
Length: 83.7 metres
Speed: 16 knots
Passenger capacity: 700 summer, 590 winter
Vehicle capacity: 115

Dodekanisos Express
Length: 40 metres
Speed: 31 knots
Passenger capacity: 337
Vehicle capacity: 6

Dodekanisos Pride
Length: 40 metres
Speed: 32 knots
Passenger capacity: 280
Vehicle capacity: 9

For more information, click here.

26. Alco Ferries – Rhodes to Chalki in the Dodecanese

Alco Ferries operate the Sebeco II, running the half-hour journey from Rhodes to nearby Chalki. This 29-metre long, passenger-only ferry was built in 2019.

Check out their website (in Greek only) for a few photos. 

27. Sea Dreams – Rhodes to Symi and Turkey

Sea Dreams operate small passenger catamarans from Rhodes to Symi and nearby Turkey. As timetables and routes may change from season to season, it’s best to do some further research a few days before your trip.

Aegean Cat
Length: 37 metres
Speed: 29 knots
Passenger capacity: 403

King Saron
Length: 36 metres
Speed: 27 knots
Passenger capacity: 510

Symi II
Speed: 14 knots
Passenger capacity: 480

28. Lafasi – Kos to Kalymnos and Turkey

This local company serves the routes from Kos to Kalymnos, as well as Kos to Bodrum in Turkey. They operate two small passenger ferries.

Apollon II
Length: 28.9 metres
Speed: 20 knots
Passenger capacity: 223

Ilias T
Length: 22.5 metres
Speed: 20 knots
Passenger capacity: 123

You can check out these small vessels here.

29. Other ferries from Greece to Turkey

The companies below only run ferries from Greece to Turkey. You can book tickets on Ferryhopper, and if you want more information on the vessels you can check their websites.

Rhodes to Fethiye – Makri Travel 
Rhodes to Fethiye – Dodecanese Flying Dolphins 
Rhodes to Marmaris – Yesil Marmaris Lines 
Chios to Cesme – Sunrise Lines

Are there ferries from Greece to Egypt?

If you look at a map without taking into account distances, it seems like there should be a ferry from Greece to Egypt. In fact, in the past a ferry ran once or twice a week.

Updating this in 2020, there is currently no ferry running between Greece and Egypt.

Ferries in Greece

So this is it, a list of all ferries in Greece – who would have known they are so many. Hopefully it will come in handy when you are planning your next trip to Greece!