The History of Golden Star Ferries
Golden Star Ferries is a reputable Greek shipping company operating in the Aegean Sea. Offering connections from Rafina Port to the Cyclades islands, the maritime company takes advantage of Rafina’s strategic location near Athens International Airport. In fact, it holds a prominent presence in Rafina, the secondary yet highly significant Port of Athens. Moreover, it provides crossings between the Cycladic islands, playing a key role in travelers’ island-hopping experience.
The shipping company was founded in 2011 by two brothers, Dimitris and Giorgos Stephanou, who were Andriots. Its headquarters can be found in Piraeus. The company has come a long way from its early days to the present. Continuously striving to streamline its services and modernize its vessels, Golden Star Ferries has won many awards along the way. The title of the Passenger Line of the Year 2017 by Lloyd’s International Organization is just one example. Overall, the company is committed to providing efficient, high-quality services, focusing on passenger satisfaction and delivering a comprehensive travel experience.
The Golden Star Ferries’ Fleet
The fleet of Gold Star Ferries consists of 5 vessels. They are all Ro/Ro ferries, offering efficient crossings from Rafina to the Cycladic islands. Specifically, Golden Star Ferries operates the following vessels:
| Vessel | Type | Passenger Capacity | Year of Construction |
| Superferry | Ro-Ro | 1400 | 1995 |
| Superexpress | Ro-Ro | 1070 | 1998 |
| Andros King | Ro-Ro | 1600 | 2006 |
| Andros Queen | Ro-Ro | 1400 | 1998 |
| Golden Princess | Ro-Ro | 780 | 2006 |
Golden Star Ferries Routes and Destinations
Golden Star Ferries operates routes connecting Rafina to several Cycladic islands. Moreover, it offers inter-island sailings, making travel between the islands convenient. Routes are much more frequent during the summer, as the peak tourist season has a significant impact on ferry schedules. Still, there are crossings available all year long.
Golden Star Ferries explicitly serves the following destinations:
The Most Popular Golden Star Ferries Routes
The Golden Star Ferries Ships’ Services and Amenities
All vessels in the Golden Star Ferries fleet are well-maintained, comply with strict safety regulations, and undergo frequent inspections. Additionally, they are accessible, providing services and facilities to ensure pleasant journeys for passengers with disabilities. Thus, they have ramps, elevators, and escalators, as well as accessible restrooms and cabins.
Moreover, they offer several ticket categories corresponding to various seating types. Hence, passengers can book a deck ticket, the most affordable option, which doesn’t include an assigned seat, or reserve an economy seat, an economy seat with a table, or a VIP seat with a table. Some vessels also feature air-type seating zones, cabins, and pet-friendly cabins. Specially designated areas for pets are always provided. Plus, ferries are equipped with restrooms and an infirmary. Cafes, snack bars, and shops are also available on most of the Golden Star Ferries vessels. Last but not least, all ferries are air-conditioned. In fact, their indoor areas are usually chilly, making dressing in layers a smart choice for their passengers.
Useful Info About Golden Star Ferries
Online Bookings
Online tickets are available for journeys on Golden Star Ferries.
Web Check-in
You can easily check in from your PC, tablet, or smartphone.*
Luggage Policy
Passengers can carry baggage up to 50kg.
Pet Policy
Pets are allowed in the specially designated areas or the pet-friendly cabins.
Golden Miles
The Golden Star Ferries reward program. It rewards passengers’ loyalty with special deals and discounts.
*Alternatively, you can always collect a paper ferry ticket from the port’s travel agencies.
FAQs
Who owns Golden Star Ferries?
Two brothers from Andros founded the Golden Star Ferries company and own it to this day. Thus, Dimitris and Giorgos Stephanou are the company’s owners.