Island mysteries are the stuff that exotic vacation dreams are made of. But even these idyllic retreats are not immune to strange incidents and unsolved mysteries.
The claustrophobic feel of islands lends itself to huddled secrets that battle against the watchful eye of small, close-knit communities. Add in a dash of suspense and a sprinkle of adventure, and you have the perfect recipe for an engaging island thriller!
How to Buy a Ferry Ticket
When planning your trip to the Greek Islands it’s important to consider ferry times and connections. The best way to do this is by using Ferryhopper where you can check schedules for a number of different ferries all in one place.
You can also buy your ferry ticket online at the cheapest prices on the market – a lot cheaper than booking in advance at the port or through a travel agent. This is especially useful for high season when ferry services are very busy.
It’s also worth noting that if you are going to take a ferry from the mainland to Santorini or Piraeus it is a good idea to reserve your tickets in advance. This is because both destinations are very popular and there can be limited availability in the high season.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if you are travelling with children or a car it is best to book your ferry ticket directly with the company (check their website for more information). This way you can avoid paying extra for your vehicle and you will have the peace of mind that the correct seat has been reserved for you.
It’s also worth mentioning that the amount of luggage you are allowed to take on board will vary by ferry company. So it’s important to check the luggage policy before you purchase your ticket. If you want to save time you can also choose to pay for your ferry ticket with a mobile phone and skip the ticket office altogether.
Buying a Ferry Ticket Online
Unlike the often unpredictable world of air travel, island hopping by ferry can be fairly predictable. There are certain times that ferries leave and there are specific ports or docks they have to go through in order to reach their destination. Knowing this, you should always be sure to arrive early at the ferry terminal. This will give you time to find your way, buy a ticket, and relax before your ferry departure.
Buying a ferry ticket in advance online is an easy and convenient option. This is especially the case during high season when ferries can get full quickly and you may not be able to purchase your ticket on the day of departure. Using an online booking site like Ferryhopper will provide you with instant quotes and schedules for ferries that will suit your needs within the time frame you have available for your trip.
Another advantage of a ferry booking website is that it can save you money. In general, it is better to book three to six months in advance. This is when you will be able to find the lowest prices. However, even if you book in advance, you will still need to swap your online confirmation for an actual ferry ticket at the ferry company office or travel agency kiosk. This can be a bit frustrating if you are traveling during peak season, but it’s not something you should stress about too much.
Buying a Ferry Ticket at the Port
It is possible to buy ferry tickets at the port – but it can be confusing and time consuming. If you have the Ferryhopper app, all your ferry tickets will be stored in the app and you can check in for the trip at one of the ferry office locations without needing to go to a ticket office at the port and pick up paper tickets.
Ferry schedules vary by season and destination – it is important to research your route carefully before you travel. During the peak summer travel period, most islands have multiple ferries departing each day and tickets are more expensive than off-season.
In addition, if you are planning on island hopping, it’s a good idea to invest in a Eurail pass for Greece as the ferry portion of the pass will often be cheaper than purchasing individual ferry tickets at the ferry port. These passes can be purchased through your travel agent or directly from the Eurail website.
Ferries in Greece can be crowded and confusing, especially during the peak travel season, so it’s a good idea to arrive at the ferry port early on the day of departure. Ask port officials for assistance with lining up at the correct vessel and don’t be afraid to chat with other people at the ferry station – they will help you get in the right line. Once on board, relax and enjoy the trip!
Buying a Ferry Ticket at a Travel Agent
With dozens of ferry companies operating in Greece and a variety of routes to choose from, it’s important to plan your island-hopping route accurately. With the right tools, you can easily find a ferry itinerary that matches your needs and budget, without sacrificing flexibility or convenience.
The majority of Greek ferries are large vessels that resemble cruise ships. Their size makes them comfortable and stable enough to keep you feeling relaxed, even on the longer journeys. On board, you’ll find everything you need for a pleasant trip, from food to drinks. On some ferries, you can also book cabins that offer a more private, comfortable ride and a place to sleep.
In addition, most of the larger ferries have lounge areas where you can relax during your trip. And if you’re travelling with children, most ferries have a dedicated kids’ zone for them to enjoy.
One of the most popular ferry routes in Greece is the ANEK service, which connects eight different island ports and the mainland port of Piraeus. This company’s ferries are large and modern, with restaurants and bars on board. The company also offers an early booking discount, making it a great option for those who are looking for a luxurious trip.
Another good option is to book your ferry tickets with Minoan Lines, which operates some of the most luxurious ferries in Greece. Their ferries travel to many of the Cyclades islands and even Heraklion and Chania on Crete. They also have a few routes between Greece and Italy, including Patras to Igoumenitsa and Corfu to Venice.