Taking the ferry to Greece can be a source of anxiety, so we’ve prepared this article to answer any questions you might have.
That way, you can look forward to the moment with greater peace of mind.
Here’s a list of the most frequently asked questions, and the answers we can provide. As this list is not exhaustive, please do not hesitate to send us your questions to complete this article.
Where and when to book your ferry tickets in Greece?
We really recommend you visit the Ferry Hopper website. It’s the site we always use personally, because it’s very easy to use. Best of all, this site doesn’ t charge any extra fees, so it’s the same price as if you bought your ferry tickets directly at the port.
Tickets are generally available between 3 and 6 months before the crossing . So there’s no need to book too early! It’s also possible to book right up to the last minute. In this case, you’ll need to collect your physical ticket from the ticket office on the port.
Beware, however, that boats are usually quite full in summer. It’s best to avoid the last minute, especially if you also need to take a vehicle with you.
What type of seat should I choose on the ferry?
When booking, you can choose your ticket type:
- The lounge deck, economy class: You don’t have a reserved seat. This means you’ll need to find a place either inside the boat or on the outside deck. For this, we advise you to get on the ferry as soon as you start boarding.
- Numbered seats in economy class. Don’t worry, your seat is reserved.
- Business/VIP seats. These numbered seats are more comfortable, with a more spacious seat than economy. These places often offer a better view. The lounges in which these seats are located are also often less busy and therefore quieter.
Do you need to book a ticket for children/babies?
Tickets must be reserved for all passengers. Children typically receive a discount, and baby seats are provided free of charge. However, in all cases, a ticket is necessary to board the train, even if it is issued for €0. Additionally, you will need to carry some form of identification, as you may be asked to prove that you are the ticket holder.
How to collect your ferry tickets
It depends on the ferry company. Here again, there are several possibilities:
- Electronic ticket: After validation, you will receive an e-mail containing a link that will enable you to check in and receive your boarding pass directly online. All you have to do is download the boarding pass onto your phone, or if you prefer, print it out on paper.
- A paper ticket to be collected directly from one of the ferry company’s collection points in the port. The addresses are indicated in your confirmation e-mail. In this case, allow a little extra time to collect your tickets.
- A paper ticket sent to your home address by post with delivery charges.
What time should you arrive at the port?
In fact, it mostly depends on the port you’re sailing from. Athens has three ports: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio. The port of Piraeus is very large. We therefore recommend that you arrive at the port a good hour before the ferry departs. This is particularly important if you’re traveling by car. Rafina’s port is medium-sized, while Lavrio’s is small. But in any case, it’s better to be ahead of the game!
To find out more about how to get to the ports of Athens, you can browse these articles:
Travelling by car?
As soon as you arrive at your boarding gate, you’ll be directed to a parking row, where you’ll wait in your car. Only the driver (with ticket and car ticket) remains in the car, while other passengers board the boat on foot.
After that, everything happens very quickly, so make sure you’re ready! You’ll be guided by the slipway crew to carefully park your vehicle in the desired location. It’s very noisy, and there’s a lot of shouting, but that’s part of the charm!
Above all, remember where your car is parked.
Finally, it is forbidden to return to the hold during the crossing. So make sure you take everything you need with you.
If you’re traveling with a rental car, you’ll need to enter the license plate number when booking. If you don’t know it, enter RENT123.
How to make the most of your ferry crossing?
On most ferries, there are various snack bars where you can buy drinks, sandwiches, salads… You can also bring your own drinks and food !
Elodie H.