Greek Line Ferry Routes and Destinations Guide

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Close-up of Greek Writing on the Stone
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of Greek Writing on the Stone

Greek Line offers a range of ferry routes and destinations in Greece, providing a convenient and scenic way to explore the country's islands and coastlines.

Their primary routes connect major ports such as Piraeus and Rafina in Athens, with popular island destinations like Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete.

Some of the most popular routes include the Piraeus to Mykonos route, which takes around 5 hours, and the Piraeus to Santorini route, which takes around 9 hours.

Greek Line's extensive network allows passengers to travel to over 20 different islands and coastal towns, making it a great option for island-hopping adventures.

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Olympia Class

The Olympia Class was a series of passenger ships operated by the Greek Line. The first ship in this class was the SS Olympian, launched in 1948.

The Olympia Class ships were known for their speed, with the SS Olympian reaching a top speed of 22 knots. They also had a capacity for over 1,000 passengers.

These ships played a significant role in the Greek Line's operations, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s.

Ships Operated

Discover the ancient ruins nestled in the lush countryside of Greece from a breathtaking aerial perspective.
Credit: pexels.com, Discover the ancient ruins nestled in the lush countryside of Greece from a breathtaking aerial perspective.

The Ships Operated by the Greek Line were a diverse fleet of vessels, each with its own unique history and characteristics.

The Nea Hellas, later renamed the New York, was the first ship to operate for the Greek Line, built in 1922 and sailing for the line from 1939 to 1959.

Here are some key statistics about the ships operated by the Greek Line:

The Olympia was the first and only newbuild for the line, built in 1953 and sailing for the Greek Line from 1953 to 1975.

Ferry Companies

The Olympia Class ferries are operated by various ferry companies that offer a range of routes and schedules.

Washington State Ferries is one of the primary ferry companies that operate Olympia Class ferries, offering routes such as the Bremerton-Seattle route and the Southworth-Vashon-Fauntleroy route.

The ferry companies that operate Olympia Class ferries have implemented various safety measures to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew, including life jackets, fire alarms, and emergency beacons.

Some ferry companies, like Washington State Ferries, also offer amenities such as food and beverage services, restrooms, and comfortable seating.

Olympia / Arkadia

Beautiful capture of boats docked in Olympia Marina reflecting on calm waters under a blue sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Beautiful capture of boats docked in Olympia Marina reflecting on calm waters under a blue sky.

The Olympia / Arkadia ships were part of the Olympia Class, and they operated in the Mediterranean Sea. They made multiple stops along the way, visiting various ports in Europe and the Middle East.

One notable feature of the Olympia / Arkadia was their itinerary, which included a mix of European and Middle Eastern ports. For example, one trip stopped in Lisbon, Naples, and Piraeus, while another trip visited Haifa, Limassol, and Genoa.

The ships often sailed from New York, with some trips departing from Boston as well. From there, they would head to the Mediterranean, making stops in various ports along the way. One trip took 23 days to reach Piraeus from New York.

Here are some of the specific ports visited by the Olympia / Arkadia:

  • New York
  • Boston
  • Lisbon
  • Naples
  • Messina
  • Piraeus
  • Limassol
  • Haifa
  • Genoa
  • Halifax

Some trips also included stops in Valletta, Ponta Delgada, and Malaga, among other ports. The ships' itineraries varied depending on the time of year and other factors.

Routes and Destinations

Engraved Greek Letters on a Stone
Credit: pexels.com, Engraved Greek Letters on a Stone

Greek Line offers a range of routes to destinations in the Mediterranean and beyond.

From Piraeus, Greece's main port, you can sail to various Greek islands, including Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. These islands offer a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, from ancient ruins to picturesque whitewashed villages.

Some of the most popular routes include the Piraeus to Mykonos route, which takes around 5 hours, and the Piraeus to Santorini route, which takes around 9 hours.

Ferry from Athens to Saronic Islands

The ferry from Athens to the Saronic Islands is a popular route that offers a relaxing and scenic way to explore the region. The journey typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the island and the type of ferry.

Hydra is one of the most popular islands to visit from Athens, and it's known for its charming waterfront and historic architecture. The ferry from Athens to Hydra takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Credit: youtube.com, Saronic Sailing Part 1: Athens to Aegina

Poros is another great option, with its picturesque harbor and beautiful beaches. The ferry from Athens to Poros takes around 1 hour.

Aegina is the largest of the Saronic Islands and is known for its stunning beaches and ancient ruins. The ferry from Athens to Aegina takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the type of ferry.

The ferry schedule from Athens to the Saronic Islands varies depending on the time of year and the day of the week, but there are usually multiple departures throughout the day.

Explore Caribbean, Med & Beyond

The Caribbean, Mediterranean, and beyond - a treasure trove of breathtaking coastlines and unforgettable experiences.

You can explore Western Caribbean gems like Cozumel, which is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and ancient Mayan ruins.

If you're looking for a legendary Euro summer vacation, consider heading to the Mediterranean or Greece, where you can soak up the sun and culture.

Daily discoveries await you on breathtaking, bucket list coastlines, no matter which destination you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Greek linear pattern?

A meander, also known as a Greek Line, is a decorative border made from a continuous line with a repeated motif. This classic pattern originated from ancient Greek designs and is still used today in various forms of art and architecture.

Does the Chandris line still exist?

No, the Chandris line ceased all operations in 1996, but one ship, The Azur, remains in existence. The line's legacy is largely a memory, with most of its fleet scrapped or laid up.

Jessie Smith

Senior Writer

Jessie Smith is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen interest in travel and aviation, Jessie has established herself as a go-to expert on air travel procedures, providing readers with valuable insights and practical advice. Her articles are a testament to her dedication to helping others navigate the complexities of air travel, making her a trusted voice in the industry.

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