Traveling by Ferry with Your Car: The Complete Guide to Safe Summer Trips

Summer holidays begin the moment you get behind the wheel. With proper preparation, safe driving practices, and a quick vehicle check before departure, you can enjoy your journey with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Before Boarding the Ferry

Arrive at the Port Early

During the summer season, ports are usually very busy. Make sure you arrive at least 1 to 1.5 hours before departure to complete the boarding process without stress.

Have All the Necessary Documents Ready

Keep the following within easy reach:

Your ferry tickets
Your ID card or passport
Your vehicle registration document (if requested)

Prepare a Small Carry-On Bag

Once your car is parked in the ferry garage, access to the vehicle is usually prohibited during the journey.

Bring with you:

Mobile phone and charger
Wallet
Any necessary medication
Water
A light jacket
Children's essentials (if traveling with kids)

How to Drive Safely Inside the Ferry Garage

Driving inside a ferry garage requires extra caution.

Follow the Crew's Instructions

The ferry crew knows how vehicles should be positioned to ensure proper weight distribution and safe loading. Always follow their directions.

Drive Slowly

Use 1st gear
Maintain a very low speed
Keep your low-beam headlights on, as visibility inside the garage is limited

Watch Out for Obstacles

Inside the garage you may encounter:

Pillars
Rails
Narrow spaces

Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and carefully follow the crew's instructions.

How to Secure Your Car on the Ferry

Once your vehicle is parked:

Engage a Gear and Apply the Parking Brake

To prevent your vehicle from moving due to rough seas:

Leave the car in 1st gear or reverse, depending on the slope.
Fully engage the parking brake (or ensure the electronic parking brake is activated).

Fold in the Side Mirrors

Your mirrors can easily be damaged while other vehicles are being loaded or unloaded.

Turn Off All Electrical Devices

Before leaving your vehicle:

Switch off the engine.
Turn off the lights.
Turn off the radio.
Make sure no electrical accessories are left running.

Lock Your Vehicle

Do not leave valuables visible inside the cabin.

Remember that access to the ferry garage is generally not permitted during the voyage.

The Correct Disembarkation Procedure

Once the ferry arrives at your destination:

Wait until the crew announces that drivers may return to the garage.
Do not rush to your vehicle.
Follow the order of vehicle departure.
Drive slowly until you have completely exited the port.

How to Find Cheaper Ferry Tickets

Transporting your car by ferry can significantly increase the cost of your vacation. Here are a few ways to save money.

Book Round-Trip Tickets

Many ferry companies offer discounts when both outbound and return tickets are booked together.

Take Advantage of Early Booking Offers

The earlier you book, the better your chances of finding lower fares.

Compare Different Departure Ports

Depending on your destination, compare departures from:

Piraeus
Rafina
Lavrio

Prices can vary considerably between ports.

Travel Midweek

Ferry tickets from Monday to Thursday are often cheaper than those for Fridays and Sundays.

Before You Leave, Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Road Legal and Safe

Before starting your journey, ensure your vehicle has:

A valid roadworthiness inspection (KTEO)
Valid car insurance
A valid emissions card (where required)

If you are unsure when your vehicle's KTEO expires, check it in advance using the "When Is My KTEO Due?" service. This can help you avoid fines and unpleasant surprises during roadside inspections, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Have a Great Trip!

Happy holidays and safe travels from the ekteo.gr team!