CyndiLeeC

We've booked Marizan Villas for July 1-4. Thinking of taking a ferry TO Santorini on Wed, 7/1, and a plane BACK to Athens on Sat., 7/4. But I am SO confused about ferries. Don't want to spend half of the time on transportation, and concerned about ferry cancellations (and apparently seasickness on some?). Also, what is the difference between high speeds, catamarans, etc? I'm totally lost as to the different types.

Can you help me select a ferry line to Thira (maybe mid-morning out of Athens) and a plane out of Thira (mid-day back) to Athens)?

Thanks!

Kristinelaine

Many on these boards suggest flying between islands because the ferries take up so much of your time. I know we took the ferry (not high speed) from Athens to Santorini a few weeks ago. It takes about 8 hours and leaves at something like 7:30 a.m. Kind of takes most of your first day. I decided on the ferry because some say you should approach Santorini from the sea -- that the view of the caldera is wonderful that way. I'm not sure it was worth the 8 hours ride. Unless you really like boat rides and seeing some of the other islands this way as you pass by (or occasionally stop to let someone off).

Try www.gtp.gr for ferry schedules.

Heimdall

These are the sailings currently scheduled for Jul 1st: http://tinyurl.com/l8u582. Highspeed 3, Superjet, and Speedrunner 2 are all catamarans (twin-hulled highspeed vessels), while Blue Star Paros and Adam Korais are conventional ferries.

Most ferries leave Piraeus in the early morning so they can be back in port late that evening, and readied for another trip the next day. My choice would be either Highspeed 3 or Speedrunner 2 for speed, or Blue Star Paros for a comfortable if longer trip.
http://www.ferry-site.dk/picture/ferry/9216171d.jpg
http://raflucgr.ra.funpic.de/speedr2.jpg
http://raflucgr.ra.funpic.de/toppag208.jpg

Heimdall

Given the choice available, avoid Superjet and Adam Korais. Superjet is a small passenger-only catamaran, uncomfortable in rough seas. Adam Korais is a conventional ferry, and doesn't arrive on Santorini until 4:20am the next morning.

Heimdall

For flights, either:
http://www.aegeanair.com/
or:
http://www.olympicairlines.com/

Saifun

also try
http://www.athensairways.com/
We're flying from Athens to Santorini in August, we booked the tickets from Athens's airways.

Heimdall

Hi Saifun,

When you return from your trip, please give us some feedback on your experience with Athens Airways. This is a new airline, and hopefully a good third alternative for flights to/from Santorini.

Last weekend I flew Aegean Airlines from Santorini to Athens, and highly recommend them.

Pawan

Ferry is a cheaper option. flights generally cost twice as much. The Highspeed 3 is a good budget option if you have an extra day. Santorini is a beautiful island and you dont want to waste a day travelling. I haven't checked the latest ferry schedules, however, if there is an overnite ferry from Piraeus to Santorini, then that would be a good option.

Saifun

Definitely Heimdall,
I'll let you guys know when I get back. I decided to book with Athens Air b/c they had the best option for time and prices. Didn't have much options @ Aegean Airline b/c I booked my ticket pretty late, or else I'll fly on Aegean too..