The History of Hellenic Seaways
Hellenic Seaways is one of the major ferry companies in Greece, providing safe and efficient connections from the mainland to the islands of the Aegean Sea. It has a long history. Founded in 1984 by the Livanos family, it was then named Ceres Hellenic Shipping Enterprises. In 1999, it was renamed Minoan Flying Dolphins. The company was in an evolving race, on track to go public, when the Greek stock market collapsed in 1999. In 2000, the vessel Express Samina sank, leading to a major crisis for the company. After that, the company’s name changed again in 2002 (to Hellas Flying Dolphins), and in 2005, it adopted its current name, Hellenic Seaways. Finally, in 2018, Hellenic Seaways became part of Attica Group, along with Superfast Ferries, Blue Star Ferries, and Anek Lines.
Nowadays, Hellenic Seaways is a leading maritime company with a prominent presence in the Greek ferry industry. It provides top-rated services and strives to constantly surpass itself. As a result, it has won numerous awards and nominations over the years. Moreover, it invests in eco-friendly technology, aiming to minimize its environmental impact and align its operations with ecological standards.
The Hellenic Seaways Ferries
Hellenic Seaways has a fleet of 15 vessels. It offers sailings both with high-speed and conventional ferries. In detail, the company’s fleet comprises the following ferries:
| Vessel | Type | Passenger Capacity | Vehicle Capacity | Year of Construction |
| Nissos Samos | Passenger Ferry | 2213 | 656 | 1988 |
| Nissos Rodos | Passenger Ferry | 2210 | 748 | 1987 |
| Artemis | Passenger Ferry | 748 | 58 | 1997 |
| Highspeed 4 | High Speed Catamaran | 1010 | 188 | 2000 |
| Hellenic Highspeed | High Speed | 727 | 165 | 1997 |
| Highspeed 3 | High Speed Catamaran | 1068 | 215 | 1998 |
| Aero 1 Highspeed | Aero Catamaran | 152 | – | 2022 |
| Aero 2 Highspeed | Aero Catamaran | 152 | – | 2022 |
| Aero 3 Highspeed | Aero Catamaran | 152 | – | 2022 |
| Flying Cat 3 | Passenger Catamaran | 342 | – | 1998 |
| Flying Cat 4 | Passenger Catamaran | 442 | – | 1999 |
| Flying Cat 5 | Passenger Catamaran | 339 | – | 1996 |
| Flying Cat 6 | Passenger Catamaran | 338 | – | 1997 |
| Flying Dolphin 17 | Passenger Hydrofoil | 132 | – | 1984 |
| Flying Dolphin 29 | Passenger Hydrofoil | 132 | – | 1991 |
Hellenic Seaways Routes and Destinations
Hellenic Seaways offers routes connecting the Greek mainland to the islands of the Aegean Sea. Traveling to the Saronic Islands, Dodecanese, Cyclades, North Aegean Islands, and even Crete, it serves a wide number of destinations. Explicitly, you’ll find available routes from and to the following destinations:
The Most Popular Hellenic Seaways Ferry Routes
The Hellenic Seaways Ferries’ Services and Amenities
All the vessels of the Hellenic Seaways fleet are well-equipped and provide safe and reliable services. They comply with the strictest safety standards, and frequent inspections verify their adherence to safety regulations. Additionally, they are all accessible, featuring necessary facilities for passengers with physical challenges or disabilities, including accessible restrooms and cabins, elevators, escalators, and designated areas.
Hellenic Seaways caters to its passengers’ needs. Hence, it offers several seating options. Overall, there are air seats divided into various categories. Costlier tickets come with more comfortable seating. Furthermore, the majority of Hellenic Seaways ferries provide telemedicine services and Wi-Fi and include self-service restaurants, gift shops, café-bars, and open-deck bar facilities. Some even feature vending machines and designated bicycle areas, while all vessels have dedicated zones for pets. The ferries that feature cabins also include pet-friendly and accessible units.
Useful Info About Hellenic Seaways Ferries
Online Bookings*
Online booking is available for journeys with Hellenic Seaways ferries.
Luggage Policy
If you carry luggage up to 50 kilos or 1m3,, you won’t have to pay an extra fee.
Pet Policy
There are cabins where pets are accepted, and designated areas for pets on board. However, owners must have their pet’s documents, and the pet must be fully vaccinated.
Children Fare Policy
Children younger than 4 travel for free. Kids between 5 and 12 years of age pay a 50% discounted fare.
Seasmiles
The Hellenic Seaways loyalty program offers numerous benefits and discounts. Passengers earn seasmiles, which they can redeem for discounted ferry tickets or cheaper onboard services.
FAQs
Does Hellenic Seaways have WiFi?
All Hellenic Seaways ferries offer the necessary amenities to ensure pleasant sailings. Thus, Wi-Fi is available. That being said, it typically isn’t free, but it comes with a price.