Having a pet brings with it the privilege of sharing every moment of life with your closest friend. When planning a holiday, including them in new discoveries — rather than leaving them behind — has become a far more attainable and easy experience. Journeys by sea in particular offer unique opportunities to step into a delightful adventure together with your four-legged companion.
Important note: The rules differ from island to island — always confirm with the agency you are travelling with before you set out.
Planning an island tour can be an unforgettable experience for you and a holiday full of new scents and places for your pawed friend. At Tilos Travel, with our ferry crossings to Rhodes, Leros, Samos, Kos and Chios, we make it possible to travel comfortably with your pets. For the journey to run smoothly and for the comfort of both you and your friend, there are certain ferry rules to observe.
The Rules for Carrying Pets on the Ferry
For a trouble-free journey, please pay attention to the following rules:
Carrier requirement: Small pets such as cats, dogs and birds are recommended to be kept in special carrier bags or cages at all times, both in the ferry's indoor areas and on the open deck.
Muzzle and lead: Outside its carrier, your dog — whatever its breed — may be required to wear a muzzle and to be kept under control on a short lead at all times.
Vaccination record and documents: You must carry your pet's up-to-date vaccination record and any health certificates with you during the journey. Officials have the right to request these documents in exceptional cases.
Supervision: All responsibility for your pet — feeding and watering included — rests entirely with the owner. During the crossing the animal must not be allowed onto the ferry seats or into the "no pets" areas designated by the crew.
Species and size limits: Depending on the operator's policy, the acceptance or carriage conditions for pets above a certain weight may vary. For large breeds, always confirm with the company's call centre or ticket office before the crossing.
Hygiene rules: You are expected to be prepared for any hygiene issue that may arise during the journey. Carrying hygienic pads, waste bags and wet wipes with you is obligatory.
Tips for a Comfortable Crossing with Your Pawed Friend
With the right preparations you can make the journey calmer and more pleasant for both of you. Here are the tips that will keep your friend more relaxed throughout the trip:
Adjust meals before the journey: Restricting your pet's food for 3-4 hours before travel helps reduce the risk of nausea or vomiting from seasickness. A small amount of water in that period is sufficient.
Burn off energy first: Letting your pet release its energy before boarding helps it stay calmer on longer crossings. A short walk around the pier calms the animal both mentally and physically.
A familiar scent: Placing a blanket carrying the scent of home, or a favourite toy, inside the carrier helps the animal feel safe.
The right carrier: It is critical for hygiene that the carrier or cage allows good air circulation, is sufficiently spacious, and has its floor lined with a liquid-proof pad.
Stress management and calm: Speaking to your pet in a soft, calm tone during the journey makes it easier to keep its stress level under control. If your animal suffers intense anxiety, consult your vet before the trip about safe calming alternatives.
Choice of deck: Where possible, preferring the parts of the ferry with more airflow and fewer external stimuli — rather than the enclosed areas — can prevent your pet from being startled by the surroundings.
With the right planning and careful preparation, the Greek islands journey you take with your pet can turn into an unforgettable adventure for you both. Once your documents are complete and your equipment meets the rules, your ferry trip will offer a peaceful start.
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