What to Do on a Ferry: Tips for an Enjoyable Crossing

Preparing for Your Ferry Journey

Embarking on a ferry trip, whether it's a short island hop in the Cyclades or an overnight crossing across the Adriatic, offers a unique travel experience. Unlike flying, ferries provide space, fresh air, and often stunning views. To make the most of your journey, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring comfort and enjoyment.

Before you even step on board, consider the duration of your trip. A two-hour crossing from Split to Hvar will require different preparations than a 14-hour overnight journey from Athens (Piraeus) to Rhodes, or a multi-day voyage on a Norwegian coastal steamer. Pack a small day bag with essentials you'll want easy access to, such as medications, snacks, entertainment, and a change of clothes if you're on a longer trip. Remember that main luggage often goes into a car deck or designated storage area, so keep valuables and immediate necessities with you.

Booking in Advance and Checking-In

For popular routes, especially during peak season (e.g., summer in the Mediterranean or school holidays), booking your ferry tickets well in advance is highly recommended. This ensures you secure your preferred class of travel (e.g., standard deck, airline-style seat, cabin) and vehicle space if you're bringing a car. Always check the specific check-in procedures for your operator; some require you to collect physical tickets even if you've booked online, while others accept digital boarding passes. Arrive at the port with ample time, typically at least 60-90 minutes before departure for vehicles, and 30-45 minutes for foot passengers, to avoid stress.

Staying Entertained on Board

Ferry travel can be an excellent opportunity to unwind and disconnect, but having a plan for entertainment will prevent boredom, especially on longer routes.

Digital Diversions and Offline Content

While some modern ferries offer Wi-Fi, it can often be slow, unreliable, or expensive. Do not rely on it for streaming or heavy browsing. Instead, prepare a selection of offline entertainment. Download movies, TV shows, podcasts, audiobooks, and music to your devices before you depart. Ensure all your devices are fully charged, and consider bringing a portable power bank, as charging points can be scarce or in high demand on board. E-readers are perfect for ferry travel – lightweight, long battery life, and thousands of books at your fingertips.

Traditional Pastimes and Social Interaction

Don't underestimate the power of traditional entertainment. A good book or magazine is a classic for a reason. Pack a deck of cards or a small travel-sized board game for fun with companions. Many ferries have communal areas where you might find other travelers open to a friendly game. For children, coloring books, small toys, and sticker books can be invaluable. Encourage them to look out the window and spot landmarks, other boats, or marine life.

Maximizing Comfort During Your Crossing

Comfort is key to an enjoyable ferry journey, particularly on longer or overnight routes. From choosing your seating to managing temperature, a few simple strategies can make a big difference.

Choosing Your Seating Wisely

If you haven't booked a cabin, consider your seating options. Airline-style seats are a step up from standard deck access, offering a designated spot and often more comfort for napping. For shorter trips, deck access allows you to move freely, find a spot with a view, and enjoy the fresh air. On overnight journeys, a cabin is highly recommended for privacy, a bed, and often an en-suite bathroom. Cabins range from basic interior options to luxurious exterior suites with windows. If you're on a budget and have only deck access for an overnight trip, consider bringing a travel pillow, an eye mask, and earplugs to help you rest in a quiet corner.

Dress in Layers and Prepare for Temperature Changes

Even on a sunny day, temperatures on deck can be cooler due to wind, and air conditioning inside can sometimes be quite strong. Dress in layers so you can easily adjust to changing conditions. A light jacket or a warm scarf can be useful. If you plan to spend time outdoors, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential, especially in sunny climates like the Mediterranean or Caribbean. The sun reflecting off the water can be surprisingly intense.

Dining and Refreshments on Board

Most ferries, even smaller ones, offer some form of food and beverage service, but options vary widely. Planning ahead can save you money and ensure you have food you enjoy.

Ferry Food Options: From Cafeterias to Restaurants

Larger ferries, especially those on longer international routes (e.g., Italy to Greece, UK to France), often feature a range of dining options, from self-service cafeterias and snack bars to à la carte restaurants. Prices tend to be higher than on land, reflecting the captive audience. Cafeterias typically offer hot meals, sandwiches, salads, and drinks. Snack bars will have coffee, pastries, crisps, and cold beverages. Some premium ferries might even have specialty restaurants or bars. Check the ferry operator's website in advance to see what services are available on your specific route.

Bringing Your Own Snacks and Drinks

To save money and ensure you have your preferred items, bringing your own snacks and drinks is always a good idea. Sandwiches, fruit, nuts, energy bars, and bottled water are excellent choices. For longer trips, a small cooler bag can keep drinks and perishables fresh. Be mindful of any restrictions on bringing alcohol on board, though typically personal consumption in cabins is fine. Enjoying a picnic on deck while watching the coastline pass by can be a delightful experience.

Embracing the Ferry Experience

Ferry travel is about more than just getting from A to B; it's part of the adventure. Take the opportunity to enjoy the journey itself.

Enjoying the Views and Fresh Air

One of the biggest advantages of ferry travel is the unparalleled views. Head to the outer decks to breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the scenery. Whether it's the dramatic fjords of Norway, the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands, or the picturesque shores of the Aegean, the perspective from the water is often breathtaking. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife like dolphins or seabirds. Don't forget your camera!

Exploring the Ship and Its Amenities

Modern ferries are often equipped with a variety of amenities. Take some time to explore the different decks. You might find observation lounges, shops (duty-free on international routes), children's play areas, arcades, or even swimming pools on some of the larger cruise-ferries. Walking around can also help prevent stiffness on longer journeys. Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and muster stations, just in case.

Dealing with Seasickness

For some, the thought of seasickness can be a deterrent to ferry travel. However, there are many effective ways to prevent and manage it.

Prevention and Remedies

If you are prone to motion sickness, take preventative measures before you board. Over-the-counter medications like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine) are widely available and effective. Consider taking them an hour or so before departure. Natural remedies like ginger (ginger chews, ginger tea, or capsules) can also help. Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands) are another drug-free option for many.

Onboard Strategies

Once on board, try to stay on an upper deck in the middle of the ship, where motion is typically less pronounced. Focus on the horizon, as keeping your eyes fixed on a stable point can help. Avoid reading or looking at screens if you start to feel queasy. Fresh air is often beneficial, so head outside if possible. Sip on water or clear sodas, and avoid heavy, greasy, or acidic foods. If you have a cabin, lying down in a dark room can sometimes alleviate symptoms. Most ferries will have staff who can provide assistance if you are feeling unwell.

Arriving at Your Destination

As your ferry approaches its destination, preparation for disembarkation will ensure a smooth transition.

Gathering Your Belongings and Preparing to Disembark

Listen for announcements regarding arrival and disembarkation procedures. Typically, passengers with vehicles will be called to their cars before foot passengers. Gather all your belongings well in advance. If you've stored larger luggage, ensure you know where to collect it. Be patient during disembarkation; it can sometimes take a while for everyone to leave the ship, especially if many vehicles are involved.

Planning Your Onward Journey

Before you arrive, have a plan for your onward journey from the port. Is there public transport available (buses, taxis)? Have you arranged a pickup? Many ferry ports can be bustling, so knowing exactly where you need to go will save time and stress. Check local transport schedules or have taxi numbers handy. For example, arriving at Mykonos port, you might need a local bus or pre-booked transfer to reach Mykonos Town or your hotel. Similarly, arriving in Palermo, Sicily, you'll want to know how to get from the port into the city center. You can check live routes and timetables on this site to help plan your arrival.

Environmental Considerations for Ferry Travel

As travelers, we all have a role to play in protecting the beautiful marine environments we traverse. Ferry operators are increasingly adopting greener practices, and passengers can contribute too.

Responsible Travel Practices

Be mindful of your waste. Utilize recycling bins if available on board and avoid littering, especially on open decks. Never throw anything overboard. Conserve water and energy in cabins. When exploring ports and islands, respect local ecosystems and communities. By being a responsible traveler, you help ensure that these stunning sea routes remain pristine for future generations to enjoy.