Guide to Greece and the Greek Islands
Fast ferries v conventional ferries
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- 7.1 Summary
- Disadvantages
- Conventional ferries
7.0 Fast ferries v conventional ferriesThere are generally two types of ferries when travelling in Greece: fast ferries and conventional ferries. Fast ferries can either be large catamarans capable of transporting vehicles and passengers or high-powered passenger-only speedboats that may be smaller than many yachts. Conventional ferries are the type which typically operate the Dover-Calais route. These can be very large with multiple decks and facilities, including restaurants, cafes and bars. Fast ferries can offer a considerable time saving over conventional ferries but also have higher ticket prices. If travelling from Mykonos to Naxos in July, for example, you will save almost an hour with a fast ferry but the fast ferry will cost £21 and the conventional ferry £15. However, there are some disadvantages too. Firstly, there aren’t many facilities like cafes or restaurants. In fact, normally there will be a café and toilet facilities. You are also not allowed out on the deck due to the speed at which the vessels travel. In addition, while large fast ferries will most often offer a very smooth ride, with poor weather, crossing with a smaller fast ferry can be an unpleasant experience and not for those with weak sea-legs. On the other hand, most modern conventional ferries have advanced stabilisation systems to ensure a smooth journey in any weather. It should be noted though, that most of the year the seas in Greece are smooth. Another factor to consider when choosing between a fast or conventional ferry is the wind. Conventional ferries can travel with winds up to 8 or 9 on the Beaufort scale, while fast ferries normally won’t travel with winds above 6, or will travel only very slowly. High winds are most likely from around 15th November to 15th January and from 15th June to 15 July. Luckily delayed sailings due to wind are a rarity. But if you’re scheduled to sail on a fast ferry and the wind seems high, it may be worth consulting a ticketing agency. Sometimes it’s simply easier to swap to a conventional ferry to avoid a delay. Though the most a sailing is delayed for is normally one day. 7.1 Summary:Fast ferries:Large catamarans or high powered speedboats. Advantages:Much faster than conventional ferries All tickets include reserved seating Embarkation and disembarkation normally quicker and more straight-forward DisadvantagesMore expensive Susceptible to high winds (won’t sail above 6 Beaufort) On small boats, rough seas can mean a rough crossing Have to keep dogs in a dog kennel Few facilities You cannot access the deck Some ferries don’t accept vehicles Conventional ferries:Normally large ferries with multiple decks. Advantages:Cheaper More stable crossings. Advanced stabilisation system mean a smooth journey in any weather More facilities – restaurants, bars, cafes etc. All ferries accept vehicles You can normally take your dog on deck DisadvantagesSlower than fast ferries You have to pay extra for reserved seating Deck space can be crowded in the summer Embarkation and disembarkation can be chaotic  Ferries approach the island of Mykonos in the Cyclades
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