4 tips for families traveling by ferry

Traveling to the Greek Islands by ferry is a very common mode of transport for families visiting Greece. The reasons are many, but one should be enough: Ferries are fun! They may also be the only way with over 200 inhabited islands, of which fewer than 40 have airports. In this article, we address 4 topics for families to consider before booking a ferry!

1. Know Your Boat

Large high-speed ferries (e.g. many of the large catamarans) are spacious, advanced crafts with family-friendly amenities. Small “Flying Dolphin” hydrofoils, on the other hand, provide an airplane-like experience. Cramped, bumpy and especially uncomfortable on choppy waters, you may want to avoid this when with young children. For the seasick-inclined, it’s good to note that in general, the larger the ferry, the more stable on the seas. 

2. Amenities of Ferries

Modern and air-conditioned, large high-speed ferries offer seating that reclines comfortably and a host of other features. For large families, cafe-style and sofa lounge seating around a table is sometimes available. On-board snack bars operated by familiar Greek chains like Everest or Flocafe conveniently cater to ever-hungry kids. They serve a good variety of sandwiches, pies, sweet treats, and refreshments, although you are also welcome to bring your own food. In many cases, there are restaurants onboard, where you can eat freshly cooked meals. Restrooms are typically reasonably well-kept, while baby changing tables are almost always provided on large ferries.

If you have specific questions or concerns about amenities and facilities, check with our customer support team in advance as every vessel is different. Whether or not it makes sense to pay extra for added Business Class comforts also depends on the boat in question.

3. Entertainment on the Ferry

Ferries are a great option for families with fidgety passengers in tow. My toddler and I spend 2 to 3 hours strolling from the snack bar, to gift shop, to viewing panels, and all over again, as we greet everyone along the way. The gift shop often displays toys and children’s books for sale to the delight of meddling hands. Shared television screens are affixed at various points, although programs are often limited to Greek channels. It’s a good idea to bring your own child-muting screen-time solution if you were planning for this. Download all programs in advance as wifi connectivity is unreliable and oftentimes slow on the high seas.

4. Car Transport

The deciding factor for us on many occasions to travel by ferry is the availability of car transport on some boats. Load your luggage, stroller, food supplies, beach parasol, fold-up chairs, and the entire family’s haul at one hotel, then offload at the next. No need for the hassles of airport check-ins, or worrying about overweight luggage. 

Understandably, however, visitors may prefer to rent transport at their destination. If you are not bringing your vehicle, travel as lightly as you can. There’s going to be some luggage handling work as you are required to roll these onboard yourself, store them on lower deck luggage racks, then collect and roll them off again on arrival.

5. Final Words of Advice

This is a final list for advice to follow if you are traveling with your family by ferry:

• Reserve seats where you can. You don’t want the risk of breaking up the family as ferries get busy and seats are not always assigned sequentially.
• Bring sun coverage for the often unshaded wait at the port, especially if you are not traveling with your vehicle. Pack a cardigan for the trip as well, as the boat gets cold! 
• You can also bring strollers onboard large ferries. We do if the journey overlaps with baby’s nap time.
• Go early to secure a spot to park it without obstructing traffic.
• Be prepared to carry necessary luggage (or strollers)  up some flights of stairs, in case there is no elevator on your vessel.
• Stand ready to board at the port 30 - 45 minutes ahead of your departure time as ferries wait for no one.

For more helpful tips on how to make your ferry trip for your family success, refer to our article on What To Do on Board. If you want more inspiration to organize your dream-trip you can also visit our interactive Map of Ferries and get ideas!

Where can I Book Ferry Tickets for my Family?

You can use Ferryhopper to compare information for all ferry companies and vessels. You can book your ferry tickets online; safely, fast and without hidden fees. Our customer support team is more than helpful when it comes to your questions or inquiries, so don't hesitate to contact us!

Lindsay is a traveler & a blogger, making Greece an annual summer destination for her toddler and husband! You can find more information on her site dedicated to family trips around Greece!