Taking a ferry route from Athens to Chania should not be seen as just a normal option for travelling. Instead, you should see it as the most beautiful journey of your life because you are about to sail through the heart of the Mediterranean.
This service is open to you all year and offers you a scenic and best alternative for an air trip. Also, this trip invites travellers to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Aegean Sea.
This journey will be a blend of both comfort and adventure. The ferry takes you off from the bustling and boring mainland to the serene beauty of Crete.
1. The Ports: Athens and Chania
This beautiful journey is set to kick off at Piraeus, Athens’ main port and one of Europe’s largest ports. This port is a destination where you can witness the busy activities. Exploring the beautiful city of Athens before embarking on this journey can be an additional highlight. This port serves as a gateway to the mesmerizing Greek Islands and beyond, which is another highlight of this port.
On the other end lies the port of Chania. It is another busy port situated in Souda, which is, again, a natural harbour that is known for its strategic significance and breathtaking beauty.
The availability of efficient bus services and taxi networks makes the 20-minute trip to the city center of Chania both convenient and enjoyable.
1.1. Piraeus Port
Piraeus Port is about 15 km from Athens and is easily accessible because of the availability of any type of transportation, including bus, taxi and even metro. This makes reaching the port an easy and hassle-free task.
Ferries to Chania will usually depart from the Getes E2 and E3. But always checking your tickets for the gate number is advised to avoid any mistakes.
1.2. Souda Port
Souda is the port in Chania that acts as the main link between Crete and Greece. This port plays a crucial role in combining commercial services with the convenience of the passengers.
The route covers about 150 nautical miles and offers a voyage through the scenic parts of the Aegean Sea.
2. Duration and Scheduling
A ferry trip from Athens to Chania is usually overnight and typically takes a duration of 8 hours to 9 hours. This trip offers passengers a night filled with peace, all while enjoying the beauty of the sea.
The departure of the trip from the Piraeus port mostly occurs at 21:00. The ferry glides through the night before it touches down in Chania at around 05:30. Occasional crossings are scheduled at 10:00 or 22:00, adding flexibility to your travel plans.
3. Athens to Chania Ferry – The Ferry Operators
Booking a ferry ticket from Athens to Chania is an easy task. A handful of online platforms offer you one-way, round-trip and multi-journey options, and early booking is advised to get the best prices and ensure the availability of your favourite seats.
Since these trips are in high demand, the chances of your preferred ferry tickets and seats running out are higher. These operators are known for their trustworthy services and the wide range of amenities available onboard passengers.
Also, these operators are known for providing ferries with convenience and are designed to enhance the overall travel experience with comfort and leisure.
4. Seating and Cabin Options
While booking your tickets for this trip, you will be given the option to choose your preferred seating from the wide range of options given to you. You will have a set of options, from standard or economy seats to luxurious seating, just like an airline.
You can also choose cabin options, which are available for those who are seeking privacy and comfort. The cabins in these ferries will for sure give you a cozy trip as if you are travelling in a hotel room on the sea.
5. Luggage Policy
The best advantage of travelling on a ferry from Athens to China is the generous luggage policy they have for the passengers, and unlike travelling on a flight, here, you do not have any restrictions or limitations on baggage allowances.
This is one of the reasons why the majority choose the ferry as a transportation option while travelling from Athens to Chania. Hence, pack your bags generously without any worry, as a ferry would be the best option for those who do not wish to keep any limitations on their baggage.
6. Vehicles
If you are someone who wants to carry their vehicle as well, then a ferry would be the best option. Ferries are known for catering to travellers who wish to bring their own vehicles to Chania; it doesn’t matter if it is a card or a two-wheeler. This makes travel more convenient and helps the passengers move freely at their own pace once they reach Chania.
7. Pets
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on board ferries that operate on these routes. If you are someone who wants to travel along with your pet buddy, a ferry trip would not be your call.
However, make sure always to check the guidelines of operators because there are chances of these rules getting changed. This policy can also vary from one operator to the other, so always check the guidelines before booking your tickets.
8. Exploring Chania
With a blend of Greek, Venetian and Ottoman influences, Chania is a beautiful city rich in history, culture and tradition.
History comes alive in this city, and the old town with narrow streets and breathtaking architecture are some of the highlights of Chania that attract travellers from places around the world. Firka Fortress and the Maritime Museum of Crete are some of the must-visits in the city.
9. Why a Ferry and What to Expect?
If you choose a ferry as an option for travelling, then it’s sure that you are opting for a relaxed and enjoyable journey. Ferry can help you escape the rush of air travel and give you a relaxed kickstart to your holiday.
Ferries that take you from Athens to Chania would be equipped with a wide range of add-ons like restaurants and lounges, and some even have an option for shopping. In short, ferries are known for giving their passengers a mini cruise-like experience at half the price.
Last Updated on by Ankita M Bose