The Northeast Aegean islands are located on the eastern edge of the Aegean Sea, across the coast of Turkey.
They are composed of Samos, Ikaria, Chios, Lesvos, Limnos, Agios Efstratios, Psara, Fournoi, Oinousses and a few more.
Departures to Samos, Ikaria Chios and Lesvos are operated with the conventional ferries of Blue Star ferries company from Piraeus port, which is located in the southwest part of Athens, and Kavala port which is situated in eastern Macedonia.
The island of Samos has three different ports called ‘’Pithagorio’’, ‘’Karlovassi’’, ‘’Vathi’’.
There are a couple of weekly departures from each port with the duration of the trip from Piraeus being about 9h30m and about 15h30m from Kavala port.
Ikaria on the other hand has two ports called “Agios Kirikos” and “Evdilos”. The standard crossings from Kavala are every Wednesday and Saturday where it takes about 18h30m hours to get there. The ones from Piraeus port depart every Tuesday and the duration of the trip is about 7h30m.
There are two ports in Chios island, the main one, called Chios port, and “Mesta” which is about 4km away and It takes about 11 hours to get there from Kavala port.
Crossings from Piraeus port to Chios depart every Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday where they reach their destination in 8,5 hours.
As for Lesvos, there are two ports on the island, the main one is called ‘’Lesvos’’ port and the other one “Sigri”. There are departures to Lesvos and Limnos every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. The trip duration to Lesvos is 12-13,5 hours and 18 hours to reach Limnos.
There is also one departure every second day from Lavrio/ Kavala to Agios Efstratios and Limnos which is operated by the conventional ferries of Sea Jets company.
The ferry to Psara departs every Wednesday and Friday, taking 6h30m to reach its destination.
As for Fourni and Oinousses, there is one crossing every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday where the trip duration is about 6h30m-15 hours to get to Fourni and 11,5 hours to get to Oinousses.
The above-mentioned trip durations differ depending on the selected ferry company.
The north east Aegean islands have in many ways retained their authenticity and traditional side more than other mainstream islands which makes them even more appealing and charming.
Chios has many stunning beaches, while being particularly famous for its medieval villages as well as the variety of interesting sights, including the fortress, villages known as “Mastichochoria” for their historic manufacturing of Masticha, a gummy sap that is extremely beneficial in cosmetics and medicine as well as for a variety of purposes as liquor and chewing gum.
Samos is a place full of vegetation and green paths with imposing mountains, such as Kerkis and Ampelos, caves, gorges, ravines, the pristine natural environment and of course the islands traditional wine will impress you. In addition to the sunny beaches of Ikaria, you can explore its archeological sites, its natural monuments, its traditional settlements and its thermal springs renowned since antiquity. If you're lucky enough you will also experience the famous festivals and sporting events hosted on the island throughout the year.
Limnos is the island of Hephaestus (god of fire and metalworkers), an ideal place for a quiet vacation, with the fossilized forest of Moudros, the archeological sites of Poliochni, the gorgeous lakes of Aliki and Chortarolimni and its volcanic rocks will leave you mind-blown.
Lesvos is the third biggest island in Greece, the island of harmony, full of historical monuments and natural beauty. The greatest way to get to know the island is by hiking. Visit the marvelous castles, the ancient theater, its petrified forest, its monasteries and churches, such as the temple of Taxiarchis in Mantamados and the Monastery of St. Raphael.
Psara is an island of rich cultural heritage and beautiful virgin beaches. It stretches amphitheatrically with its picturesque harbor, following the traditional architecture of white houses and red tile roofs. Do not miss the opportunity of visiting this island, with its significant contribution to the revolution of 1821.
Agios Efstratios is one of the most isolated and special islands where its simplicity is what makes it so unique. It is a small blue paradise, an ideal travel destination for those who prefer peace and quiet. Perfectly suitable for hiking, visits to various chapels and places of exceptional natural beauty.
The island of Fourni is a well-hidden treasure of the Aegean Sea full of houses with blue shutters, protected coves, pristine beaches and stone-built alleys. It’s a place perfectly suitable for camping. It was used in the past as a shelter for pirates due to its dazzling rocky reefs.
Oinousses are a picturesque settlement that have many mansions, crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and charming two-story houses made of stone which provide an aristocratic elegance. Make sure to visit the statue of Oinoussiotissa, a bronze mermaid with a crown and a sailboat in her left hand which is absolutely breathtaking.
So, get your suitcase ready, and let's take off on the vacation of a lifetime!
Travelling by ferry can be a majorly amusing and a thrilling experience as there’s a stunning view from the deck, money-saving bargains in the onboard shops and many more advantages.
There are several accommodation types, such as a deck class where you will be able to find a seat at the lounges, airplane type seats which includes an allocated seat for each passenger and of course for long-distance trips there’s the option of travelling in a private cabin, to make your trip more convenient and be able to enjoy your privacy.
Another huge amenity is that there are no luggage restrictions when travelling by ferry, which gives you the freedom and flexibility to pack exactly what you need for your holiday.
Travelling by ferry also provides you with the option of getting a glimpse on other islands on the few-minute stops while other passengers embark and disembark. The spectacular natural Greek ports will leave you amazed.