Aero 1 Highspeed

AERO 1 Highspeed is a high-speed catamaran constructed in 2022. It measures 36 meters long and 9.7 meters wide, accommodating up to 150 passengers.
Continue reading to learn about the routes, the available seating, the onboard facilities, and more.
Note: The AERO Highspeed vessels belong to Hellenic Seaways, but their routes are sold through the Blue Star Ferries network. Both companies are part of Attica Group, meaning ticketing, schedules, and operations are shared across the group’s system.

The vessel operates in the Saronic Gulf, connecting the port of Piraeus near Athens to the islands of Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses, as well as Ermioni and Porto Heli on the Peloponnese coast. These crossings provide a quick and reliable link between Athens and the Saronic islands, serving both locals and visitors year-round, with peak frequency in the summer.

The Athens (Piraeus)-Aegina and Athens (Piraeus)-Hydra connections are a core part of the vessel’s itinerary, with travel times of approximately 40 minutes to Aegina and around 1 hour and 40 minutes to Hydra. The Athens (Piraeus)-Poros crossing typically lasts 1 hour, while the Athens (Piraeus)-Agistri journey takes about 55 minutes, with an intermediate stop at Aegina. Continuing further, the Athens (Piraeus)-Spetses route usually requires around 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it one of the longer island runs.

Beyond the islands, the Athens (Piraeus)-Ermioni and Athens (Piraeus)-Porto Heli services extend the network to the Peloponnese, with sailings lasting between 2 hours and 30 minutes and 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on how many stops are included. Shorter inter-island trips, such as the Poros-Hydra route, often take less than 1 hour.

These routes are operated all year, although timetables are adjusted seasonally. During the high summer months (June-September), the vessel runs multiple daily sailings on the most popular lines such as the Piraeus-Aegina and Piraeus-Hydra routes. In the off-season, the schedule is reduced, with fewer departures per day, while extended connections to Porto Heli and Ermioni may be offered less frequently or omitted on certain days once demand drops after early autumn.

Discover the seating option available on the vessel:

Aircraft-type seats

AERO 1 Highspeed is equipped exclusively with numbered, reclining aircraft-type seats, arranged across several small lounges. These are designed for the short Saronic Gulf crossings the vessel operates, offering passengers a reliable mix of comfort and practicality. Seating is assigned at the time of booking, ensuring every traveler has a reserved place on board.

The vessel offers a variety of onboard facilities designed for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Food & drink

On board AERO 1 Highspeed, passengers will find vending machines offering drinks and light packaged snacks. While there is no café-bar or restaurant, these machines provide quick and convenient options well suited to the short Saronic Gulf crossings the vessel operates.

Entertainment

Entertainment on board is provided through the @Sea infotainment portal, accessible via the ship’s Wi-Fi network on personal devices. The platform includes music, podcasts, games for children, digital magazines, weather updates, and real-time information about the vessel’s position. This makes short journeys more engaging, particularly for families traveling with young children.

Pet-friendly facilities

The vessel is pet-friendly and includes an air-conditioned kennel area for animals. Smaller pets may travel in appropriate carriers alongside their owners in the passenger lounges, while larger pets must stay in the kennel area. Assistance dogs are welcome in all public areas of the ship without restriction, provided that proper documentation is shown.

Accessibility features

AERO 1 Highspeed has been designed with accessibility in mind. It offers designated seating and storage spaces for passengers with reduced mobility, as well as public areas adapted for wheelchair users. A sloping ramp is used for embarkation and disembarkation, ensuring a smoother overall boarding process, and the crew are also trained to assist passengers who may need additional support.

Wi-Fi and connectivity

Wireless internet is available throughout the vessel via paid access codes, although coverage may vary depending on the ship’s position at sea.

Additional services

A telemedicine service is available in case of emergencies, allowing access to medical support while at sea.

The AERO 1 Highspeed does not offer vehicle transportation. The vessel accepts only bicycles, which are kept in a designated area.

Passengers are allowed to carry up to 50 kg or 1 m³ of luggage free of charge per person. Luggage may be placed in designated storage areas according to crew instructions, ensuring proper safety and organization.

If a passenger brings luggage exceeding the allowance (more than 50 kg or 1 m³), Hellenic Seaways reserves the right to charge additional fees or refuse transport, based on space availability and regulations.

The company is not responsible for any loss of money, valuables, or personal belongings left in the vessel's common areas.

The transportation of flammable and hazardous materials is strictly prohibited.

Discover the vessel’s story:

Construction and entry into service (2022)

AERO 1 Highspeed was built in 2022 by Brødrene Aa in Hyen, Norway, as part of a €21-million order by Attica Group for three new carbon-fiber high-speed catamarans. The vessel was delivered on June 2, 2022, and entered official service on August 8, 2022.