Conventional Ferry vs High-Speed Catamaran
The most important choice when island-hopping in Greece is choosing between large conventional ferries and high-speed catamarans.
1. Conventional Ferries (Blue Star Ferries, ANEK, Minoan)
- Speed: 18 to 22 knots (slower; Athens to Santorini takes 7h 45m).
- Cost: Economy deck passage is roughly half the price of a catamaran (€40 to €48).
- Comfort: Massive ships with outdoor promenade decks, ocean breezes, cafes, restaurants, and lounges. Smooth and stable even in 6 to 7 Beaufort summer winds.
- Luggage: Free and unrestricted. Leave bags on designated metal luggage shelves on the car deck upon boarding.
2. High-Speed Catamarans (Seajets, Hellenic Seaways, Golden Star)
- Speed: 32 to 38 knots (faster; Athens to Santorini takes 4h 45m).
- Cost: Expensive (€78 to €92).
- Comfort: Fully enclosed airline-style seating. Outdoor deck access is strictly prohibited while moving. In windy weather (the July/August Meltemi), catamarans can experience heavy motion and motion sickness is common.
Piraeus vs Rafina: Which Port?
- Piraeus: Best if already staying in central Athens. Metro Line 1 (Green) and Line 3 (Blue) drop you directly opposite the port gates. Gate E6/E7 serves Cyclades ferries; Gate E2/E3 serves Crete.
- Rafina: Best if arriving directly at Athens Airport. Direct orange KTEL buses connect the airport to Rafina port in 30 minutes for €4.00, bypassing central Athens traffic entirely.