A ferry on the Aegean Sea with Mount Athos in the background

Main Ferry on Mount Athos: Connecting Ouranoupoli to Dafni

Embark on a sacred journey across the tranquil waters of the Aegean Sea with Agioreitikes Grammes' Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry. This vessel is not merely a mode of transportation but a carrier of devotion, linking the bustling mainland to the serene monasteries of Mount Athos.

Introduction

The Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry serves as the lifeline between Ouranoupoli and Dafni, traversing the western coast of Mount Athos. Managed by Agioreitikes Grammes, this ferry provides reliable and comfortable passage for pilgrims and visitors eager to immerse themselves in the spiritual sanctuary of the Holy Mountain. Operating daily, the ferry schedule is meticulously planned to accommodate the spiritual rhythms of Mount Athos. While the "Engiitria" ferry operates most days, occasionally the "Axion Estin" ferry is dispatched to fulfill the route.

Route and Schedule

Daily Departure Times

The Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry departs from Ouranoupoli daily at 09:45 and arrives at Dafni Port at 11:45, completing a journey of approximately 2 hours. After a 25-minute stop at Dafni, the ferry departs for the return trip at 12:10 and arrives back at Ouranoupoli at 14:10. Depending on the schedule, either the "Engiitria" or "Axion Estin" ferry will be in operation.

Onboard Amenities

    The Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry is equipped with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable journey for all passengers:
  • Toilets: Available onboard for passenger convenience.
  • Seating Areas: Comfortable seating both inside and outside on open-air decks, allowing you to enjoy the serene views of the Aegean Sea.
  • Refreshments: Complimentary coffee, soft drinks, and snacks are offered to enhance your travel experience.

How to Transport Vehicles on the Ferry

Pilgrims traveling with vehicles can safely transport their cars on board. Special permits from the monasteries are required and must be arranged in advance. Please ensure that all necessary permissions are secured prior to your journey.

Travel Speed

The Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry maintains a steady speed of approximately 10 knots per hour, ensuring a timely and efficient journey from Ouranoupoli to Dafni.

How to Book Your Ferry Tickets

To ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reservations can be made by phone: +30 23770 71149 or +30 23770 21041.

Practical Information

Price

The fare for the longest journey, such as from Ouranoupoli to Dafni or vice versa, is €9.50. Ticket prices for shorter stops will vary. Tickets can be purchased at the offices in Ouranoupoli and Dafni or directly on the ferry while boarding at intermediate stops. Please ensure to have your tickets ready before boarding.

Etiquette and Conduct

    As Mount Athos is a sacred spiritual haven, passengers are expected to maintain a respectful demeanor onboard:
  • Silence and Reverence: Maintain a quiet environment suitable for prayer and reflection.
  • Dress Code: Modest attire is required.
  • Respect Monastic Customs: Adhere to the guidelines set forth by Agioreitikes Grammes and the monastic community.

Embark on Your Spiritual Voyage

Boarding the Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry is the first step in a profound spiritual journey. As you traverse the waters towards Dafni, let the serene landscapes and sacred destinations inspire your pilgrimage. Each stop along the way is a gateway to deeper faith, reflection, and communion with the divine.

Timelines for Each Trip

Entry Journey: Ouranoupoli to Dafni (09:45 departure)

Transit Time: 25 min

Exit Journey: Dafni to Ouranoupoli (12:10 departure)

Frequently Asked Questions: Ouranoupoli-Dafni Main Ferry

The Main Ferry departs from Ouranoupoli at 09:45.

The Main Ferry arrives at Hilandar Pier at 10:45.

The Main Ferry arrives at Zographou Pier at 10:55.

The Main Ferry arrives at Konstamonitou Pier at 11:05.

The Main Ferry arrives at Docheiariou Pier at 11:15.

The Main Ferry arrives at Xenophontos Pier at 11:25.

The Main Ferry arrives at Saint Panteleimon Pier at 11:35.

The Main Ferry arrives at Dafni Port at 11:45.

The Main Ferry departs from Dafni Port at 12:10.

The Main Ferry arrives at Saint Panteleimon Pier on return at 12:20.

The Main Ferry arrives at Xenophontos Pier on return at 12:30.

The Main Ferry arrives at Docheiariou Pier on return at 12:40.

The Main Ferry arrives at Konstamonitou Pier on return at 12:50.

The Main Ferry arrives at Zographou Pier on return at 13:00.

The Main Ferry arrives at Hilandar Pier on return at 13:10.

The Main Ferry arrives back at Ouranoupoli at 14:10.

The fare for the longest journey, such as from Ouranoupoli to Dafni, is €9.50. Shorter stops have reduced fares, and tickets can be purchased at the port or onboard.

Yes, reservations for the Main Ferry can be made in advance by calling Agioreitikes Grammes at +30 23770 71149 or +30 23770 21041.

Yes, the Main Ferry offers coffee, soft drinks, and snacks for purchase during the journey.

Yes, cars can be transported on the Main Ferry, but you must obtain special permits from the monasteries in advance.

Yes, toilets are available onboard for passenger convenience.

Yes, the Main Ferry offers both indoor seating and open-air seating on the deck, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic views.

The journey from Ouranoupoli to Dafni takes approximately 2 hours, with multiple stops along the way.

The Main Ferry travels at an average speed of 10 knots per hour, ensuring a timely and smooth journey.