Athens Empties as Thousands Depart for Summer Holidays, Ports See Peak Traffic

Athens is emptying as thousands of travelers embark on their summer holidays, heading to the Aegean and Saronic Islands. Passenger traffic at Attica's ports is reaching its peak, with expectations of continued high volume throughout the weekend. The Hellenic Coast Guard has increased its vigilance. Passengers departing on Friday were advised to arrive at the pier earlier due to the heavy traffic. On Friday, July 24, a total of 113 sailings departed from the four major ports of Attica, carrying 50,917 passengers to island destinations. The port of Piraeus saw 22 departures, with 24,545 passengers, 4,054 private vehicles, 706 trucks, and 720 motorcycles leaving. For the Saronic Islands, 60 routes were operated, transporting 10,079 passengers, 1,161 private vehicles, 50 trucks, and 356 motorcycles. Rafina port had 19 ship departures, with 12,019 passengers, 2,571 private vehicles, 101 trucks, and 301 motorcycles. Lavrio handled 12 routes, carrying 4,274 passengers, 1,127 private vehicles, 40 trucks, and 99 motorcycles. Based on pre-booking data, an estimated 36,904 passengers are expected to depart on Saturday, July 25. Piraeus is scheduled for 24 sailings with an estimated 22,759 passengers. The Saronic Islands will have four hydrofoil and 22 ferry routes, expecting 3,430 passengers. Rafina anticipates 14 routes with 8,000 passengers, and Lavrio expects seven routes with 2,715 passengers. Looking ahead to Sunday, July 26, pre-bookings indicate 25,361 passenger departures from Attica's ports. Piraeus has 22 scheduled sailings for 16,292 passengers. The Saronic Islands expect four hydrofoil and 24 ferry routes, carrying 2,149 passengers. Rafina is set for 14 routes with 4,829 passengers, and Lavrio has 13 routes planned for 2,091 passengers.