Pets on ferries and beaches: what's allowed in Greece
What Greek law says about dogs on beaches and ferries: where they're allowed, how Blue Flag beaches work, pet cabins, and the documents you need.
7/9/2026
· Gatsou Team
· travel, summer
Planning a holiday with your dog or cat? In Greece the rules for beaches and ferries are clearer than most people think — but they have details worth knowing before you leave, so there are no surprises at the port or on the sand.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
On free, non-organized beaches, yes: your dog can be both on the shore and in the sea, as long as they're leashed when out of the water and always under your supervision. On organized beaches (with sunbeds and an operator) access is only allowed if there is clear signage permitting it. Assistance dogs are the exception: they have access everywhere.
What about Blue Flag beaches?
On certified Blue Flag beaches pets are prohibited — with assistance dogs as the only exception. Before heading out, check whether the beach you have in mind holds the certification; it will save you the trouble of turning back.
Traveling by ferry — what are your rights?
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Small pets: allowed in indoor areas too, inside a carrier and with the captain's consent
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Large dogs: on open decks with a leash and muzzle, or in the ship's designated kennels
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Pet cabins: where available, your pet travels with you for the whole trip — book early, they sell out fast
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In shared areas your pet must always be accompanied and on a leash
Which documents do you need to carry?
1
Microchip
Mandatory for every dog and cat — and your contact details must be up to date.
2
An up-to-date health book or pet passport
With vaccinations current, especially rabies. Ferry staff may ask for it at boarding.
3
Registration in the National Pet Registry
Make sure your pet is registered and the guardian details are correct.
Book a pet cabin or kennel spot at the same time as your ticket. Pet cabins are few per ship, and in August they sell out weeks in advance.
Beach etiquette
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Always pick up after your dog — fines apply, and it's a matter of respect
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Provide shade and fresh water — sand burns just like asphalt
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Prefer morning and late-afternoon hours, not midday
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Rinse salt and sand out of the coat after swimming
For full trip preparation — what to pack, how to crate-train for travel, and the rules for planes and cars — see Gatsou's complete travel guide.
Frequently asked
Is my dog allowed to swim in the sea?
Yes — on free beaches dogs may enter the water too. On organized beaches you need signage that allows it, while on Blue Flag beaches pets are banned entirely.
Does my pet need a ticket on the ferry?
On most ferry lines pets travel free, but they must be declared at booking — especially if you want a pet cabin or kennel. Check with the ferry company before you book.
Can my pet stay in the car in the ferry garage?
No — it's forbidden and extremely dangerous. The garage is sealed during the crossing and temperatures rise dangerously. Pets always travel on deck, in a kennel or in a pet cabin.
What's the fine for a dog on a prohibited beach?
Administrative penalties apply and vary by case and municipality. Beyond the fine though, the simple rule is: free beach on a leash, organized beach only with signage, Blue Flag never.
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