Travel by ferry to see the Greek Islands in style

While ferries might traditionally be associated with short hops across the Channel to stock up on food and drink for Christmas or weekend breaks on the Isle of Wight, modern sea travel can actually be a much more glamorous affair. Ferry companies operating throughout Europe provide access to some of the continent's most exotic destinations, including the scenic and luxurious Greek Islands.

Locations such as Corfu, Mykonos and Rhodes offer the archetypal summer holiday experience - sun, crystal clear seas and wide expanses of white sand waiting to be explored. With regional operators Aegean Speed Lines and Lane Sea Lines recently being added to the range of companies available through aferry.co.uk, there has never been a better time to arrange an island-hopping break in one of the world's most beautiful holiday regions.

Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands are located off the west coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. The group comprises some of the most famous Greek isles, including Corfu and Kefalonia, and is a good place for any island-hopping adventure to start.

Corfu is known for its lush landscapes of wild flowers, olive groves and cypress trees, which contribute to its reputation as one of Greece's most picturesque islands. Keen walkers can head to areas in the north to explore some rugged landscapes, while those searching for relaxation might be more interested in isolated beaches such as Pelekas, Lefkimmi and Barbati.

Holidaymakers planning to start their journey in Kefalonia will also be treated to some spectacular natural sights - from towering mountains to sparkling seas - and can experience local culture and lifestyle in towns such as Fiskardo, Lourdas and Skala. Adventurous individuals might be interested in hiring a boat and searching for some secluded coves or visiting a stable to arrange a horse ride into the mountains.

Both Corfu and Kefalonia are connected to mainland Greece by regular ferry services. Anek Lines operates ferries from Corfu to Igoumenitsa and Patras, while Agoudimos Lines sails from Kefalonia to Patras. Once on the mainland, travellers can continue their journey by heading to Piraeus, a major port that provides ferry links to several destinations in the Cyclades and Dodecanese archipelagos.

Another option for island hoppers is to start off by visiting Crete and head to the Ionian islands of Kythira and Antikythira. Lane Sea Lines sails to both destinations from the port of Kissamos in western Crete.

Cyclades Islands

The Cyclades Islands are scattered across the Aegean Sea, south-east of mainland Greece. The archipelago comprises more than 200 separate isles, many of which are uninhabited.

Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in the group owing to its unique volcanic landscapes and thriving nightlife. There are many towns and villages worth exploring on the island, such as Fira, Perissa and Pyrgos. Visitors can also take boat trips to nearby volcanic areas and hot springs.

Mykonos is a vibrant tourist hotspot, also known for its nightlife and attractions such as the Archaeological Museum and Aegean Maritime Museum. Like all Greek islands, Mykonos boasts numerous beaches, such as Psarou and Paranga on the south coast and Kalo Livadi in the east.

Other noteworthy activities worth seeking out in the Cyclades include kiteboarding on Paros and exploring historic settlements on Sikinos and Serifos, experiences that come recommended from travel guide publisher Lonely Planet.

There are numerous travel options available to people planning a spot of island hopping in the Cyclades. Aegean Speed Lines is a leading provider of ferry services in the region, offering links from Serifos to Folegandros, Kimolos and Milos, as well as crossings from Ios to Santorini and Mykonos to Syros.

Lane Sea Lines' network in the Aegean includes sailings to Milos, Folegandros, Sikinos and Anafi, while Blue Star Ferries serves Mykonos, Naxos, Andros and Santorini, among other destinations.

Dodecanese Islands

Arguably the best known and most developed of the Dodecanese Islands is Rhodes, a summer holiday hotspot that offers beaches, scenery, culture and a nightlife scene that has developed to cater for visitors who flock to the destination every year. One experience that should not be missed during a trip to the island is a visit to Rhodes Town, which is home to a historic centre that features on the Unesco World Heritage list. Explorers can venture through winding alleys and see the town's medieval fortifications or visit nearby beaches and mountain roads.

Also worth a visit is Kos, which offers a slightly quieter and more relaxing experience than its larger neighbour to the south-east. Cycling and walking are among the popular activities on offer on the island, along with hiring a car to visit secluded beaches and see verdant countryside.

The Dodecanese archipelago also comprises Kalymnos, an island located near the coast of western Turkey that is known for its limestone rock formations and other natural spectacles, and the peaceful retreats of Lipsi and Tilos, which are ideal for holidaymakers who want to relax after visiting some of the region's busier destinations.

Blue Star Ferries is the main provider of sea crossings between islands in the Dodecanese, with regular services linking Rhodes to Kalymnos, Kos, Leros, Nisyros and Patmos. The company also operates sailings between Rhodes and locations in other island groups, such as Amorgos, Syros and Santorini in the Cyclades.

Other travel options available to island hoppers in the Dodecanese include crossings from Kos to Kalymnos, Tilos and Santorini with Blue Star Ferries, which also sails from Leros to Patmos and Syros.

Posted by Mark Robinson