ANEK Lines

The History of ANEK Lines

ANEK Lines is one of the major passenger ferry companies in Greece. It mainly serves the island of Crete, as well as many other islands of the Aegean Sea. Moreover, it offers crossings to the Adriatic Sea, linking Greek Ports to Italian harbors.

ANEK Lines historical background is unique. Thus, it isn’t just another ferry company established by a shipowner. In fact, ANEK Lines was founded on 10 April 1967 by numerous inhabitants of Crete (traders, retirees, farmers, etc.). In 1966, one of the ships of the former powerful shipping company in Crete, Typaldos Lines, sank due to safety issues. It was then that numerous Crete natives decided to accept the proposal made by the Association of Economists of Chania to establish a new shipping company regulated and operated by the island’s inhabitants. Thus, ANEK Lines became a reality under the name “Anonymi Naftiliaki Eteria Kritis” (Anonymous Shipping Company of Crete), aiming at serving the commercial, economic, and social needs of the Cretan people. In December 2023, the company became part of the Attica Group along with Blue Star Ferries, Superfast Ferries, and Hellenic Seaways. Overall, ANEK Lines has played a major role in the tourism and economic growth of Crete island.

Interesting Fact: When it comes to Greece-Italy connections, ANEK Lines collaborates with Superfast Ferries.

The ANEK Lines Ferries

ANEK Lines has a fleet consisting of 9 ships. They are all passenger ferries, providing connections between the mainland and the Greek islands. Explicitly, the ANEK Lines Ferries linking the mainland to Crete and other islands are:

ANEK Lines Routes and Destinations

ANEK Lines ferries sail from various ports of the Greek mainland to numerous islands of the Aegean Sea. Their routes’ frequency varies depending on the time of the year. Thus, during the summer months, there are even daily routes to a wide number of their destinations. Conversely, during the winter, crossings are much fewer, and some ports are not served at all. In detail, ANEK Lines ferries run from and to the following harbors:

The Most Popular ANEK Lines Routes

The ANEK Lines Ferries’ Services and Amenities

All the ANEK Lines ships are well-maintained, passing all the necessary inspections and complying with all the safety conditions and regulations. Moreover, they offer all the required services and amenities to serve their passengers with special needs. From ramps and elevators to accessible cabins and restrooms and designated seating zones for travelers with disabilities, ANEK Lines has made accessibility one of its top priorities. On the other hand, the ANEK Lines ferries are regarded as pet-friendly as well.

Depending on the vessel operating the route to your destination, you’ll find airplane-type seating, VIP seats, and lounges. In any case, all vessels feature cabins. The ships’ Wi-FI is available for passengers. That being said, it is typically free for a few minutes and comes with a fee from that moment on. What’s more, the ANEK Lines ferries boast bars and restaurants (some even a la carte), payphones, ATMs, and even gift shops and other stores. Sickbays and a telemedical system are also part of the provided amenities. Finally, some ferries are also equipped with slot machines. Overall, you should check the exact services of the ANEK Lines ferry that runs to your selected destination.

Useful Info About ANEK Lines Ferries

*Do you want to collect your ANEK Lines ferry ticket? You’ll find several authorized agencies around the port of your departure.

FAQs