Ferries in Greece survival guide

Planning to island-hop your way through Greece? With countless gorgeous islands and an extensive ferry network, a trip by sea is definitely a must. But if you are a first-timer, Greek ferries can feel like uncharted territory.

So, here comes Ferryhopper with 10 quick tips to keep in mind before boarding a ferry in Greece. Whether you're headed to Santorini, Paros, Naxos,or a lesser-known gem, here’s how to make your ferry experience smoother, safer, and stress-free:

1. Arrive at the port at least 1 hour before departure

Greek ports, such as Piraeus and Heraklion, can be large and busy, so give yourself some extra time to find your departure gate or dock. Moreover, if you are transporting your vehicle, boarding may take some time.

2. Don’t assume the first ferry at the dock is yours

Several Greek ferry companies operate with multiple vessels under the same brand, so always confirm the ferry name and destination with the crew before boarding.

3. Buy seasickness pills in advance

The Aegean Sea can get unexpectedly choppy, even in summer, so better be safe than sorry.

4. Label your luggage clearly and keep essentials with you

A shared storage space is available on board; if you store your luggage there, it’s best not to leave any valuables behind.

5. Have your ticket with the QR code ready, printed or digital

You will have your ferry tickets scanned or checked upon boarding; if you’ve booked a discounted fare (student, senior, child), make sure to have your ID or documentation handy.

6. Use Ferryhopper’s ferry tracking tool

You can track your vessel in real time and get updates on delays or last-minute changes on the Ferryhopper App.

7. Be patient during boarding and disembarking

It may look chaotic—especially if the ferry is crowded—but the crew has a system; just follow their directions.

8. Download anything you might need before the trip

Mobile data and signal often drop mid-sea, so don’t forget to save important documents, entertainment (shows, music, etc.), and maps in advance.

9. Bring a hoodie or light jacket, even in summer

Air conditioning inside the ferry can be strong, and it often gets chilly on the deck during night trips.

10. Head to the deck during departure and arrival

It’s the best place for views, photos, and fresh air (and can help with seasickness too!).