Travelling to the Greek Islands by Ferry: What You Need to Know

Sabine Switalla
Jun 26
3 min read

Updated: Jun 27

Island-hopping in Greece is a dream for many travelers, and one of the most scenic and immersive ways to get from one island to another is by ferry. With hundreds of inhabited islands spread across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, ferries are a lifeline for locals and an adventure for visitors.

But while the views are unbeatable, boarding a Greek ferry can sometimes be… let’s say, a bit of organized chaos. That’s why knowing your ferry options and preparing in advance — especially if you need accessibility assistance — can make all the difference.

The Main Ferry Companies in Greece

There are several major ferry operators that connect mainland Greece with the islands:

Blue Star Ferries – A reliable option for the Cyclades and Dodecanese. Known for large vessels and decent accessibility features.
Hellenic Seaways – Covers many routes in the Aegean. Their larger ships often have ramps and elevators.
SeaJets – Offers high-speed ferries that are faster but sometimes less spacious and accessible.
Minoan Lines and Anek Lines – Primarily serve Crete and longer routes, often with larger ships and more comfort.

Other smaller regional operators may run routes to less-traveled islands, so it’s worth checking depending on your itinerary.

Accessibility & Choosing the Right Ferry

If you or someone in your travel party requires mobility support, choosing the right ferry operator is crucial. Not all ferries are created equal when it comes to accessibility:

Some vessels offer elevator access between decks, reserved seating for people with disabilities, and wheelchair-friendly restrooms.
High-speed ferries (like some SeaJets) may be faster, but can have steep ramps and limited space, not ideal for travelers with mobility concerns.

It’s always a good idea to check with the ferry company in advance or ask your travel provider to help confirm accessibility options.

Boarding Can Be Chaotic — But You’re Not Alone

Let’s be honest: boarding a ferry in Greece can be a bit hectic, especially at popular ports like Piraeus or Santorini. With tight schedules and lots of foot and vehicle traffic, it can feel overwhelming.

At CareunderSun, we make sure your journey starts and ends smoothly. When we drop guests off at the port, our staff personally supports each traveler, guiding them to their boarding point, helping them find their assigned seat, and coordinating with the ferry crew if needed.

Upon arrival, we also assist with disembarkation, ensuring you don’t have to worry about stairs, crowds, or finding your luggage. Your comfort and safety are our priority.

Boarding process at a Greek Port of Santorini

Best practice: Always check your confirmation email or the ferry operator’s website carefully. If it says “Must be printed” or “Boarding pass required from ticket office”, head to the port early to either print it or pick it up at the kiosk.

At CareunderSun, we assist our guests by confirming ticket requirements in advance. If needed, we arrange for tickets to be printed or guide travelers to the correct ticket booth at the port before departure.

Digital vs. Printed Ferry Tickets — What You Need to Know

While most major Greek ferry companies now accept digital boarding passes (such as a QR code on your phone or a PDF ticket), some still require a printed copy, especially for smaller or regional routes.

Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways generally accept digital tickets.
SeaJets, Minoan Lines, and Anek Lines often do too, but some routes or booking portals may still state "print required."
Smaller or local ferry operators may insist on a physical, printed ticket.

Final Tips for Smooth Sailing

Book in advance during high season (June–September).
Arrive early – at least 45 minutes before departure.
If you need mobility assistance, notify the ferry company and your travel provider in advance.
Bring snacks and water — not all ferries have full service.

A Beautiful Start to a Greek Island Escape

Whether you’re heading to Santorini’s caldera views, Naxos’ sandy beaches, or the peaceful corners of Amorgos, ferry travel offers a unique, unforgettable slice of Greek life. And with the right preparation — and support from local experts like us at CareunderSun — the journey can be just as magical as the destination.