ferry travel in greece
Itineraries,  Travel Tips

Ferry Travel in Greece: Why Traveling in Greece by Sea is the Best Choice

Are you ready to go island hopping in Greece? After so many years living on a Greek island, I often get asked which is the most efficient way to move around and visit the islands. My answer is always that there’s nothing like reaching the islands by sea… and here I’ll tell you why!

Greece is known for its incredible collection of islands, and wwhile there are various ways to explore the country, traveling by ferry is one of the most rewarding and authentic experiences. It’s a great way to travel saving some money, to go island hopping in the Aegean Sea or heading to the Ionian islands. Ferries offer a unique way to soak in Greece’s culture. Want to know why? Read on!

1. Scenic and Relaxing Journey

Unlike airplanes, ferries allow you to enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, islands, and coastal landscapes.

The slow pace of ferry travel lets you unwind, take in the fresh air, and enjoy the journey itself rather than just focusing on the destination.

Getting to Ios Island on a ferry.

2. Affordable and Budget-Friendly

Ferries in Greece are often much cheaper than domestic flights, especially when booking in advance. Many ferry companies offer discounts for students, seniors, and groups.

Additionally, overnight ferries can save you the cost of a night’s accommodation.

Double cabin.

To avoid that hustle and head straight into the boat, buy your ticket online through Ferryhopper
Check out ferry ticket fees and schedules here.

3. Convenient and Accessible

With hundreds of islands, Greece has an extensive ferry network that connects both popular and remote destinations.

Ferries run frequently between major islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Rhodes, making it easy to plan a flexible itinerary. Moreover, it will make it easy to reach off-the-beaten-path islands and smaller islands without an airport.

4. Authentic Greek Experience

Traveling by ferry gives you a chance to experience Greece like a local. You can enjoy traditional Greek food on board, chat with fellow travelers, and watch the daily life of Greek islanders as they go about their routines.

Dining room on a Greek ferry.

5. No Strict Luggage Limits

Unlike air travel, ferries allow passengers to carry more luggage without the hassle of weight restrictions or extra baggage fees.

This is especially useful for families, long-term travelers, or those bringing sports equipment such as diving gear or bicycles.

Luggage can be oversized!

6. Eco-Friendly Travel Option

Compared to short-haul flights, ferries have a lower carbon footprint. Many modern ferries now use energy-efficient technologies, making them a more sustainable choice for travelers who want to reduce their environmental impact.

7. Island Hopping Made Easy

One of the biggest advantages of traveling by ferry is the ease of island hopping. You can easily visit multiple islands in one trip, exploring hidden gems and lesser-known destinations that are not accessible by plane.

Port of Syros.

8. More Room to Move Around

Unlike airplanes, where space is limited, ferries offer spacious decks, lounges, and open-air seating areas where you can stretch your legs, walk around, and even sunbathe while traveling between islands.

Traveling in Greece by ferry is an unforgettable experience that combines comfort, affordability, and stunning scenery. Ferries are a convenient way to travel for any occasion: a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a family vacation.

Once in Greece, it will be easy to discover why ferries provide an unmatched way to explore the country’s islands. So, next time you visit Greece, hop on a ferry and embark on a journey you’ll never forget!

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Why to Travel by Ferry in Greece

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.