Kristian Ferrell
Athens, Greece, is a popular tourist destination, offering an array of Greek dishes, a vibrant nightlife, and ancient attractions. The city is also a great starting point for further exploration of the Greek islands. With three major ports – Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio – there are plenty of options for those looking to travel by boat. Each port provides access to a variety of destinations, with ferries, high-speed catamarans, and rented boats all available for those seeking a relaxing trip with unobstructed sea views.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ports of Athens | Port of Piraeus, Port of Rafina, Port of Lavrio |
| Location of Port of Piraeus | Largest port in Greece and one of the largest in the Mediterranean |
| Location of Port of Rafina | 22km east of Athens, 10km from the airport |
| Location of Port of Lavrio | 22km west of Athens, 25km from the airport |
| Ferry Tickets | Can be collected at the port or received by mail |
| Ferry Websites | ferries.gr, greeka.com |
| Ferry Types | Car ferries, catamarans, flying cats, high-speed ferries, "flying dolphins" |
| Ferry Routes | To the Cyclades, Northern Aegean Islands, Kavala, Crete, Argosaronic Islands, etc. |
| Ferry Duration | 20 mins–90 mins for short inter-island trips |
| Ferry Amenities | Facilities for people with special needs |
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What You'll Learn
The Port of Piraeus
Piraeus has a population of more than 160,000 and is quickly climbing the list of top places in the country to visit. This is due to its mix of ancient religious and historic attractions, along with the top-class amenities expected of a bustling modern city. The port is also a major draw for cruise ships from around the world, bringing tourists eager to explore Piraeus and Athens.
The port has a long history, dating back to the mid-5th century BC when it was designed by the architect Ippodamos. In 483 BC, the Athenian fleet left the older harbour of Phaleron and transferred to Piraeus. In the following years, Themistocles initiated the construction of the port and created ship sheds (known as neosoikoi), and the Themistoclean Walls were completed in 471 BC. This turned Piraeus into a great military and commercial harbour, serving as the permanent navy base for the Athenian fleet.
Today, the port is owned by the Greek state and operated by the Piraeus Port Authority (PPA), which is majority-owned by China COSCO Shipping. The economic performance of container handling has greatly improved since 2009, with the port's container handling record rising from 1.5 million TEUs to 3.692 million containers in 2017.
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The Port of Rafina
The port offers high-speed and conventional ferry services to various destinations, including the Cyclades, some Eastern Aegean islands, and Crete. It is the preferred option for those travelling to the northern Cycladic islands, such as Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos, as it provides shorter ferry times. The ferry from Rafina to Andros takes 1 to 2 hours, while the journey to Tinos takes 2 to 3 hours, and to Mykonos, 2.5 to 4 hours.
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The Port of Lavrio
The port serves ferry routes from Athens to the Cyclades and the islands of the Northeast Aegean, including Kea (Tzia), Kythnos, Limnos, and Ai-Stratis. It is the main getaway to these islands and the primary connection between Athens and northern Greece. The ferry from Lavrio to Kea operates year-round, with at least two sailings per day during the summer months.
You can get to the Port of Lavrio by taxi, car, motorbike, or intercity bus (KTEL). The taxi ride from the centre of Athens takes about 1.5 hours, while the bus takes around 2 hours. If you're coming from the Athens International Airport, the taxi ride is approximately 30 minutes, and the bus is a 30-minute to 1-hour drive, depending on traffic. It is recommended to arrive at the port at least 45 minutes to 1 hour early due to potential traffic delays during the summer months.
Ferry schedules and bookings can be found online, and it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season. Greek ferry schedules may not be posted until they begin, so it is recommended to call the port authority or the ferry line directly for the most up-to-date information.
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Ferry booking platforms
Athens, the largest city and capital of Greece, has three ports: Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion. Ferries from Athens reach the Cyclades, Crete, the Dodecanese, Saronic Islands, and the islands of the North Aegean.
There are several platforms available for booking ferry tickets. Here are some options:
- Greeka Ferries is a top-rated online booking engine for ferry tickets to Greece and the Greek Islands. They provide specialized team support and resolve any unforeseen issues efficiently. They also offer assistance in the event of ferry cancellations due to bad weather conditions or mechanical failure.
- Ferryhopper is a reliable ferry travel companion, offering real-time schedules for over 3,000 ferry routes and allowing you to compare prices from more than 117 companies. You can book your tickets at the best prices without hidden fees and combine multiple destinations in a single booking.
- FerryScanner provides a user-friendly platform for booking ferry tickets, with excellent customer service. They offer support through online chat and email, and their team is available to answer questions and ensure a smooth booking experience.
When booking your ferry tickets, it is recommended to consider the peak season, which is generally from mid-July to the end of August. During this period, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance as most locals also leave for vacation. Additionally, some high-speed ferries, known as "flying dolphins," offer short inter-island trips but are more susceptible to weather delays or cancellations.
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$31.45
Ferry types
When it comes to ferry types in Greece, there are several options to consider, each with its own advantages and features. Here is an overview of the different types of ferries commonly used in Greek waters:
- High-speed ferries: These ferries are large vessels that resemble cruise ships more than traditional slow ferries. They offer a relaxing way to travel between islands, with unobstructed sea views and a comfortable journey. High-speed ferries are ideal for those who want to save time and enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views from the decks.
- Flying Dolphins or High-Speed Catamarans: These are smaller vessels, typically carrying 150 to 1000 passengers, and are used for short inter-island trips lasting about 20 to 90 minutes. Flying Dolphins are often used on busy routes, such as Piraeus to the Saronic islands, North Sporades, and the Dodecanese islands. They are faster but can be bumpy and noisy, and they are more susceptible to weather delays or cancellations.
- Car Ferries: As the name suggests, these ferries are designed to transport vehicles and passengers. They are a convenient option if you plan to travel with your car or other vehicles between Greek islands.
- Catamarans: Catamarans, also known as "flying cats," are another type of high-speed ferry. They offer a smoother ride and are often used for inter-island transportation, providing a faster and more efficient journey.
- Traditional Ferries: While less common nowadays, traditional ferries still operate in some areas. These ferries typically offer a more affordable and slower-paced journey, perfect for those who want to take their time and enjoy the sea voyage.
When booking your ferry journey, it is recommended to use reputable online booking platforms, such as Greeka Ferries and FerriesinGreece, which offer convenient ticket reservations and assistance with any issues that may arise during your trip. These platforms also provide valuable information about ferry companies, routes, timetables, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.
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Frequently asked questions
Athens has three major ports: the Port of Piraeus, the Port of Rafina, and the Port of Lavrio. From these ports, you can take a ferry to various Greek islands, including the Cyclades, the Saronic Islands, the Sporades, and the Dodecanese.
The Port of Piraeus is the largest port in Greece and can be reached via public transport from the airport.
The Port of Rafina is located 30km (19 miles) from Athens city centre and 10km (6 miles) from the airport. It can be reached by bus or taxi.
You can book your ferry tickets online through websites like Greeka.com or in person at the port before departure.
