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.
Amy
The Seajets high speed ferry from Thira to Pirareous will have 5 stops on the way. What’s durations of each stop? Can you recommend any good views of each port from the ferry? Thanks
Céline P
The Seajets high-speed ferry route from Thira (Santorini) to Piraeus (Athens) includes stops at Ios, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, and Syros. According to the 2025 timetable, the ferry departs Santorini at 08:20 and arrives in Piraeus at 13:50, with the following schedule:
– **Ios**: Arrival at 09:00, departure at 09:10 (10-minute stop)
– **Naxos**: Arrival at 09:55, departure at 10:05 (10-minute stop)
– **Paros**: Arrival at 10:35, departure at 10:45 (10-minute stop)
– **Syros**: Arrival at 11:25, departure at 11:35 (10-minute stop)
– **Piraeus**: Arrival at 13:50
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Please note that specific stop durations for each port are not detailed in the available timetable. However, based on typical ferry operations, stops at intermediate ports like Ios, Naxos, Paros, and Syros are usually brief, often around 10-15 minutes, to allow for the boarding and disembarkation of passengers. The final stop at Piraeus is the ferry’s destination, so passengers disembark upon arrival.
Regarding scenic views from the ferry at each port:
– **Ios**: As you approach Ios, you’ll be greeted by the charming view of whitewashed buildings cascading down the hillside towards the port of Ormos. The traditional Cycladic architecture against the backdrop of rolling hills is particularly picturesque.
– **Naxos**: Entering Naxos harbor, the iconic Portara, a massive marble doorway from an unfinished temple of Apollo, stands prominently on the islet of Palatia. This ancient monument, coupled with the view of Naxos Town (Chora) with its Venetian castle, offers a blend of historical and scenic beauty.
– **Paros**: The port of Parikia presents a delightful scene with its traditional Cycladic houses, narrow streets, and the prominent Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani. The waterfront is lined with cafes and shops, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.
– **Syros**: Approaching Ermoupoli, the capital of Syros, you’ll notice the neoclassical architecture cascading down to the harbor. The twin hills, crowned by the Orthodox Anastaseos Church and the Catholic Saint George’s Cathedral, provide a unique and captivating skyline.
– **Piraeus**: As you enter the bustling port of Piraeus, the sight of numerous ships, yachts, and the expansive urban landscape of Athens unfolds. Notable areas include Kastela, a hilltop neighborhood offering panoramic views, and Mikrolimano, a picturesque marina lined with seafood restaurants.
For the best experience, position yourself on the open deck as the ferry approaches each port to fully appreciate these views. Remember to check with Seajets or your travel agent for the most current schedule and stop durations, as they can vary. Céline frome live-athens