The boats are well maintained and have an excellent safety record. Some ferries are huge and are like cruise ships, with restaurants, cabins, and shops onboard whilst fast ferries are smaller and well, fast.

Greek ferries are remarkably safe in 2026 and are the "lifeline" of the nation’s economy. The fleet is one of the most modern in Europe, consisting of massive conventional ferries (like Blue Star) and high-speed catamarans (like Seajets). These vessels are subject to rigorous EU maritime safety regulations and frequent inspections by the Hellenic Coast Guard. While the 2023 Tempe train tragedy led to a massive overhaul of Greek transport safety culture, the ferry system has historically maintained a high safety record despite the challenging winter winds and busy summer shipping lanes. The primary "safety" concern for travelers isn't the ship sinking, but rather the slippery vehicle ramps and the "controlled chaos" of boarding and disembarking. Always follow crew instructions and stay clear of the heavy machinery during docking. While "Meltemi" winds in August can cause rough seas and occasional cancellations, the ships themselves are built with advanced stabilization technology to ensure a safe, albeit sometimes bumpy, journey across the Aegean.