Greek Island Hopping by Ferry: A Guide to Booking and Riding the Ferries

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If you're looking to explore the Greek islands, one of the best ways to do it is by ferry. Numerous routes between different islands make it easy to hop around and see as many as you want. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about riding the ferries in Greece, from booking your tickets to finding the correct port for your departure. Let's get started!

What are the Different Types of Greek Island Ferries?

Conventional Ferry

Before we dive into how to book your ferry tickets, it's important to understand the different types of ferries that operate in Greece. The most common type of ferry is the conventional ferry, which is a large vessel that carries both passengers and vehicles. These ferries typically have multiple decks and are equipped with amenities like restaurants, bars, and shops. If you're planning on island hopping by ferry, this is the type of ferry you'll want to take. These ferries tend to be the most popular, so book your tickets in advance.

Whenever I'm about to get off this type of ferry, I feel like I am getting ready to storm the beaches of Normandy. The large wall slowly comes down, and your eyes are temporarily blinded by the intense rays of the Hellenic sun filling the exit way.

High-Speed Catamaran

Another popular type of ferry in Greece is the high-speed catamaran, which, as the name suggests, is a faster option for crossing between islands. These ferries don't carry vehicles, so if you're traveling with a rental car or motorcycle, you'll need to take a conventional ferry. High-speed catamarans are also typically smaller and don't have the same amenities as conventional ferries, but they're a great option if you're looking to save time on your journey.

Hydrofoils

Finally, there are also hydrofoils, which are the fastest way to travel between islands but are also the most expensive. Hydrofoils are small, high-speed boats that seat around 50 passengers, while seaplanes are small airplanes that can carry up to 20 people. If you're short on time or want to arrive in style, this is the option for you.

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How Do You Book a Ferry Ticket?

Now that you know the different types of ferries that operate in Greece, it's time to learn how to book your ferry tickets. The best way to do this is by using the website and app Ferry Scanner.

Ferry Scanner is a trusted, reliable, and easy-to-use app for searching for and booking your ferry tickets. I've been using it for years and have never had an issue. I would suggest downloading and taking a screenshot of your ticket in the event you don't have internet access when boarding your ship.

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What to Expect When Riding the Ferry

If you've never been on a ferry before, it's essential to know what to expect when riding one. Most ferries in Greece have several decks with different areas to explore. The top deck is usually the best place to get some fresh air and take in stunning views. There are also usually restaurants, bars, and shops on board, so you can get a bite to eat or do some shopping while you're waiting to arrive at your destination.

Sometimes, boarding the ferry can be particularly overwhelming. When boarding at locations like Santorini and Mykonos, it can feel chaotic. Hundreds of people are all trying to board the ship and get through two doors. It is not the most fun experience, but once you're out of the loading zone, everything will calm down.

Also, if you are prone to seasickness, it's important to take precautions. The Aegean Sea is one of the worst in the world for choppy waters. I don't usually get seasick, but I never feel great after my ride on the Aegean. If you can help it, avoid heavily consuming alcohol the night before your trip.

Overall, island hopping by ferry is a great way to see Greece. It's important to understand the different types of ferries that operate in Greece and how to book your ferry tickets. When riding the ferry, expect to find different decks with restaurants, bars, and shops. Boarding the ferry can be overwhelming, but once you're on board, you can enjoy the stunning views. If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions to avoid getting sick. With a bit of planning, island hopping by ferry can be a great way to see Greece!