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If you are planning to visit Greece with your caravan, you might be wondering if you can take a ferry in Athens with your caravan. The answer is yes, but there are some things you need to know before you book your tickets.
Athens has three ports that serve ferries to the Greek islands and some mainland destinations: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio. Each port has different connections, facilities and distances from the city center and the airport. Depending on your destination and your preferences, you can choose the port that suits you best.
Piraeus is the largest and busiest port of Athens, located about 10 km from the city center and 45 km from the airport. It serves ferries to most islands of the Aegean Sea, as well as some ports of Peloponnese, such as Patras and Kalamata. Piraeus has a large parking area for caravans, as well as many shops, cafes and restaurants nearby. However, it can also be crowded, noisy and chaotic, especially during peak season.
Rafina is the closest port to the airport, located about 10 km from it and 30 km from the city center. It serves ferries to some islands of the Cyclades, such as Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, Naxos and Santorini. Rafina has a smaller parking area for caravans than Piraeus, but it is also less congested and more convenient if you arrive by plane.
Lavrio is the southernmost port of Athens, located about 60 km from the city center and 30 km from the airport. It serves ferries to some islands of the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, such as Kea, Kythnos, Milos, Syros, Rhodes and Karpathos. Lavrio has a limited parking area for caravans, but it is also the least crowded and most relaxed port of Athens.
To take a ferry in Athens with your caravan, you need to book your tickets in advance and arrive at the port at least 3 hours before departure. You will need to present your passport or ID card, your vehicle registration document and your ferry ticket at the check-in point. You will also need to pay a vehicle fare according to the size and type of your caravan. The vehicle fare varies depending on the ferry company, the route and the season.
Some ferry companies offer special services for travelers with caravans, such as camping on board or camping all inclusive. Camping on board means that you can stay in your caravan during the ferry trip, while camping all inclusive means that you can also use the facilities of the ferry (such as showers, toilets and restaurants) without paying extra. These services are only available on some routes and some ferries, so make sure to check before you book.
Taking a ferry in Athens with your caravan can be a great way to explore Greece at your own pace and comfort. You can visit many beautiful islands and mainland destinations, enjoy stunning views of the sea and experience the Greek hospitality and culture. Just make sure to plan ahead, follow the safety rules and have fun!