Why Greece’s Ferry Chaos Is a Wake-Up Call for Every Traveler : What You Need to Know

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Severe weather conditions in Greece have led to the suspension of ferry services on Sunday, February 15, 2026, with strong winds reaching up to 9 Beaufort disrupting travel across the Aegean Sea and other parts of the Greek waters. As a result, ferries traveling to and from major ports like Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio have been grounded, significantly affecting travelers heading to and from the Greek islands.

The suspension of services comes during a crucial period, as these ports are the primary gateways linking Athens to popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Naxos. The decision to cancel services has left hundreds of travelers stranded at the ports, with further delays expected until authorities reassess the weather conditions after 5 p.m. today.

Disruptions at Major Ports: Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio

Piraeus Port, the largest and busiest harbor in Athens, along with Rafina and Lavrio, have experienced widespread service suspensions. These three ports are essential to ferry operations that connect mainland Athens to islands in the Cyclades, Sporades, and Northeastern Aegean regions.

Ferry departures, including those from Piraeus to Santorini and Mykonos, were canceled in the morning and midday, leaving passengers uncertain about the rest of the day’s sailings. Port authorities have advised travelers to stay updated on the situation and wait for further announcements once the weather conditions are reassessed later in the afternoon. While the severity of the winds persists, a revised schedule for ferry services will be determined after 5 p.m.

Local Routes and Northern Greece Also Affected

The disruptions are not limited to the main Athens ports. Several local ferry routes have also been affected due to the high winds. Services on the Agia Marina to Nea Styra route, a vital connection between Euboea Island and the mainland, were suspended due to hazardous wind gusts in the area.

In northeastern Greece, ferry services on the Alexandroupoli to Samothraki route were halted because of dangerous crossing conditions. The Samothraki island, known for its rugged landscapes and archaeological sites, usually attracts many travellers during the peak seasons, and the sailing ban has significantly disrupted these trips.

Other issues were reported in northern Greece, with departures from Alexandroupoli also affected. Additionally, Kavala to Prinos on Thassos Island has seen suspended services due to the adverse weather conditions. Thassos, a popular island for its beautiful beaches and traditional villages, now faces delays for those hoping to visit or depart from the island.

What Travellers Should Do

With the situation evolving, port authorities are advising all travelers planning to travel by ferry today to closely monitor updates. Due to the fluidity of the weather conditions, ferry schedules may change depending on how the winds progress throughout the day. Travelers are urged to:

• Check with local authorities: Stay in contact with port authorities or ferry agencies for the latest updates on cancellations or new departure times.
• Be prepared for delays: Many travelers, especially those planning on visiting popular tourist islands like Santorini, Mykonos, or Naxos, may experience long delays. It is recommended to have flexible travel plans in place.
• Consider alternative travel options: If ferry services are suspended for a prolonged period, travelers should explore alternative routes or consider flight options to nearby islands, although these may also be affected by weather conditions.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

The disruptions in ferry services are not only causing delays but could also affect tourism revenues in key destinations. Islands like Santorini and Mykonos, which are particularly popular during the peak travel season, may experience a drop in visitors due to the ongoing delays. These islands rely heavily on efficient ferry connections to bring in both international tourists and domestic travelers. A prolonged disruption could impact local businesses that depend on ferry traffic, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.

However, Greek tourism officials have assured that they are working with ferry operators and local authorities to minimize the impact on travelers. Plans are in place to resume services as soon as it is deemed safe. In the meantime, travel professionals are encouraged to offer flexibility to clients, particularly those with bookings for island tours or day trips.

What’s Next for Travellers in Greece

As the situation evolves, travelers are urged to remain flexible and patient. It’s important to stay in touch with the airlines, ferry services, and local tourism offices for real-time updates on cancellations, delays, and alternative travel routes.

While the high winds are expected to subside in the coming days, travelers with plans to visit Greece in the near future should be aware that these weather-related disruptions could continue. Checking in on ferry statuses and considering alternative transport options will be key to ensuring smooth travel.

Conclusion: Planning Travel During Adverse Weather

The severe winds affecting Greek ferry services today serve as a reminder of how quickly weather conditions can disrupt travel plans, especially in areas where ferry services are essential. While the situation remains fluid, those planning to travel in Greece should be prepared for potential delays. With proper communication and flexibility, travelers can still make the most of their visit to Greece, whether it’s enjoying the scenic beauty of Santorini, exploring the ancient sites of Naxos, or visiting the vibrant beaches of Mykonos.