Ferry schedules and tickets usually become available 3-6 months before the departure date.
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That said, some ferries sell out, or require you to reserve a spot in advance (especially if you bring a vehicle). Tickets are often more expensive when purchased at the last minute, so by planning ahead and buying your tickets online you can likely save some money.
Generally a Tuesday is the cheapest day to sail, closely followed by Wednesday and then Thursday. Some routes will throw a curve ball and the weekend may be cheaper, so always check other days. Sail in the afternoon. Most people tend to book ferry crossings either first thing in the morning, or last thing at night.
Not all Greek ferries sell out fast but if you're planning to take your vehicle aboard, book a cabin or get an early booking offer, it's better to book your ferry tickets in advance. Also, you should note that some Greek island ferries are seasonal with limited onboard seating.
Most ferry companies issue their schedules for the summer season in March of that year. Seajets issue their schedule towards the end of the year prior to the summer season.
You can book your ferry in Greece online (through a website or a mobile app) or buy them from a ticket office at the port. However, it's better to book your ferry tickets online as you avoid the long queues while also getting the best ferry price.
Direct Ferries is the world's leading and most trusted ferry comparison website, with all the latest ferry sailings and prices available for you when you make your booking.
That said, some ferries sell out, or require you to reserve a spot in advance (especially if you bring a vehicle). Tickets are often more expensive when purchased at the last minute, so by planning ahead and buying your tickets online you can likely save some money.
The ferries in our region are free, including the tourist attraction, the Kootenay Lake Ferry, which is the longest free ferry in the world. It's a 35-minute journey covering 8km, and operates year round.
Not only will you need to spend less time waiting to drive onto the ferry, but you will also be able to explore what is available on board before you are joined by the rest of the passengers.
Usually, the ticket that you purchase is only valid for the crossing you have booked. Some ferry companies allow you to change your departure time at the port, but this usually only happens if multiple ferry sailings are available per day.
The main advantage of ferries is that they offer shortcuts between destinations. Overnight ferry services are also an efficient way to travel. Unfortunately, ferries generate high emissions – almost twice as high per passenger kilometre than flights.
Both ferry and train are more sustainable methods of travel than flying, which emits 60.7kg of CO2 emissions per passenger between the English and Dutch capitals, according to Eurostar, so around 300kg for five passengers.
If you book your return trip at the same time as your outbound trip you are entitled to a discount (usually between 20%-30%) on the return trip tickets (not the entire reservation). If you book your outbound tickets and return later to book your return separately, you are not entitled to the return trip discount.
Ferry cancellations can happen. They are rare but they can happen 2 - 5 times a year for 12 - 48 hours. It's really somehting not predictable and may change from year to year.
You can plan a week-long trip around the Greek Islands for between $1,000 to $1,500. This is why the Greek Islands offer some of the best low-budget destinations in Europe. Our small group Greek Island trips start at $820 including accommodations and some meals and ground transportation (not including flights).
The ferries in Greece are some of the most efficient and busiest in the world. During summer there are hundreds of them connecting between the Greek Islands and mainland ports at any given time. The boats are well maintained and have an excellent safety record.
If you are running late and are likely to miss your ferry, we suggest proceeding to the port to see if the ferry company will allow you to change the ticket to a different day or departure time. Keep in mind that if you do miss your ferry, the tickets are non-refundable.