Published on
January 8, 2026
Severe weather conditions have led to major disruptions in ferry services across Greece, as gale-force winds reaching up to 9 on the Beaufort scale have forced ferries to remain docked at several key ports. This includes Piraeus, Greece’s primary maritime hub near Athens, and other popular ports in the Saronic Gulf region, a popular gateway to several islands near the capital. Tourism on many Greek islands is significantly affected by these disruptions as travelers are advised to stay updated on ferry schedules and weather forecasts.
Port authorities have confirmed that only limited ferry services are currently operating, with priority given to routes connecting mainland Greece to the Dodecanese Islands. All other routes, including those to the Saronic Gulf, which is home to Hydra, Poros, and Spetses, have been temporarily suspended due to safety concerns stemming from the intense stormy conditions.
Disruptions to Popular Ferry Routes
Travelers looking to visit Greek islands from the mainland have experienced significant setbacks as storm winds have halted regular ferry schedules. The Piraeus Port, typically bustling with activity, remains quieter than usual, with only select ferry services to the Dodecanese Islands such as Rhodes, Kos, and Symi continuing to operate. The Saronic Gulf, known for its proximity to Athens and its ease of access for short island trips, is particularly impacted, with all ferry services to the islands in this region suspended until further notice.
With limited ferry operations, tourism in these areas has been affected, especially for those planning short trips to islands like Hydra, a popular day-trip destination for visitors to Athens. Spetses and Poros, both easily accessible from the capital, are also affected by the service suspensions, causing inconvenience for tourists and locals alike.
Impact on Tourist Travel Plans
For many visitors planning a Greek island holiday, ferries are a primary mode of transportation. These disruptions are causing widespread inconvenience for both domestic and international tourists who may have planned to explore Greece’s islands during their visit. Athens and its nearby islands have always been a popular spot for tourists seeking a combination of culture and beach relaxation, but the storm has temporarily put those plans on hold for many.
Tourists planning to visit Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and other popular destinations are also affected, as these islands often rely on ferry connections through Piraeus or other regional ports. With ongoing stormy weather and the unpredictable nature of the situation, travelers are urged to contact ferry operators and local authorities for updates on the resumption of services.
The Greek Ministry of Tourism and local tourism boards are working to provide information to visitors, while ferry operators are attempting to resume services as soon as the weather conditions improve. However, travelers should expect delays and possible cancellations for the next few days.
Tips for Tourists Affected by the Ferry Service Disruptions
For those whose travel plans have been disrupted, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the impact:
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news and updates from port authorities. Ferry operators and the Greek Ministry of Tourism are providing real-time updates on service availability and weather conditions.Contact Ferry Operators: Many ferry companies have 24-hour customer service lines and online platforms where you can check the status of your ferry or rebook your travel dates.Consider Alternative Routes: If you are travelling to popular islands like Santorini or Mykonos, consider booking a flight or alternative transportation options. Some regional airports may still be open for flights from Athens.Enjoy Athens: If your island plans are disrupted, consider staying in Athens for an extended time. The city offers numerous attractions, including the Acropolis, Plaka, and world-class museums, making it a great destination for cultural exploration.Resuming Ferry Services: What’s Next for Greek Tourism
Once the storm subsides and conditions improve, ferry services are expected to resume their regular schedules. Tourism in Greece continues to thrive, and once the weather clears, tourists will be able to return to their planned island adventures. However, travelers should be mindful that delays may persist in the coming days as ferry companies work to get services back on track.
Greece’s tourism industry has made great strides in recent years to enhance its infrastructure and visitor experience. Although the temporary disruption caused by the storm is an inconvenience, the country’s resilient tourism sector will continue to recover quickly, especially with summer just around the corner. Once the weather clears, travelers can once again look forward to visiting some of Greece’s most famous islands and beautiful coastal regions.
Conclusion: Weathering the Storm for Future Travel
While the stormy weather and disruptions to ferry services may cause inconvenience for some travelers, Greece’s tourism industry remains robust. With Piraeus Port and the Saronic Gulf expected to reopen soon, and ferry services back on track, travelers can once again enjoy everything Greece has to offer—from its stunning islands to its rich cultural heritage.
For now, staying informed and flexible with travel plans is key. With so much to see and do in Athens and beyond, visitors can still make the most of their time in Greece and look forward to island hopping once the weather improves.
