Aero 3 Highspeed

AERO 3 Highspeed is a modern high-speed catamaran built in 2022. The vessel is 36 meters long and 9.7 meters wide, with a capacity of up to 150 passengers.
Keep reading to discover the vessel’s routes, seating options, onboard amenities, and more.
Note: Although the AERO Highspeed vessels operate under Hellenic Seaways, their routes are marketed through the Blue Star Ferries network. Both companies belong to the Attica Group, meaning ticketing, schedules, and operations are managed within a shared system.

The vessel operates across the Saronic Gulf, linking the port of Piraeus near Athens with the islands of Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses. It also connects Piraeus with the coastal towns of Ermioni and Porto Heli on the Peloponnese. These routes provide smooth and efficient access between Athens and the Saronic islands throughout the year, with additional services during the peak summer months.

The busiest parts of the schedule are the Athens (Piraeus)-Aegina and Athens (Piraeus)-Hydra routes, which take about 40 minutes and roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes, respectively. The Athens (Piraeus)-Poros trip typically lasts around 1 hour, while the Athens (Piraeus)-Agistri crossing takes close to 55 minutes and generally includes a call at Aegina. The longer Athens (Piraeus)-Spetses route requires approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Services also run to Ermioni and Porto Heli, extending the network beyond the islands. These sailings range from about 2 hours and 30 minutes up to 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on intermediate stops. Shorter legs, such as the popular Poros–Hydra hop, generally take less than 1 hour.

The entire Saronic Gulf route map is active year-round, with the number of daily departures adjusted to match seasonal travel demand. During the summer period (June–September), extra sailings are added on major corridors like Piraeus-Aegina and Piraeus-Hydra. In the off-season, frequencies are reduced, and the longer connections to Porto Heli and Ermioni may operate less frequently or be paused on certain days when demand drops after early autumn.

Learn more about the seating arrangement available on this vessel:

Aircraft-type seats

AERO 3 Highspeed features exclusively reclining, numbered aircraft-style seats, distributed throughout a series of compact lounge areas. This layout is well suited to the short distances of the Saronic Gulf, providing passengers with a comfortable and efficient travel experience. Seats are allocated during the booking process, ensuring that every traveler boards with a confirmed place.

The vessel includes a selection of onboard facilities intended to make the trip pleasant and comfortable for all passengers.

Food & drink

On AERO 3 Highspeed, travelers have access to vending machines stocked with drinks and light packaged snacks. Although the vessel does not feature a café-bar or restaurant, these machines provide quick and practical choices that suit the short Saronic Gulf sailings.

Entertainment

Entertainment is available through the @Sea infotainment portal, which can be accessed on personal devices via the ship’s Wi-Fi network. Passengers can enjoy music, podcasts, children’s games, digital magazines, weather updates, and real-time tracking of the vessel’s location. These features help make the short crossings more enjoyable, particularly for families.

Pet-friendly facilities

The vessel is pet-friendly and provides an air-conditioned kennel area for animals. Small pets may stay with their owners inside the lounges as long as they remain in appropriate carriers, while larger pets must use the kennel facilities. Assistance dogs are permitted throughout all public areas when accompanied by valid documentation.

Accessibility features

AERO 3 Highspeed is built with accessibility in mind, offering designated seating and storage areas for passengers with reduced mobility. Public spaces are suitable for wheelchair users, and boarding is made easier by a sloping ramp. Crew members are available to assist anyone needing extra help during embarkation or disembarkation or while on board.

Wi-Fi and connectivity

Paid wireless internet is available throughout the vessel, although signal quality may vary based on the ship’s location while at sea.

Additional services

In emergencies, passengers can benefit from a telemedicine service, which provides remote access to medical assistance during the journey.

The AERO 3 Highspeed is not equipped to carry vehicles. It accepts bicycles only, which may be brought on board at no additional cost and are stored in a dedicated holding area.

Each passenger may travel with up to 50 kg or 1m³ of luggage at no cost. All items must be placed in the designated storage areas as instructed by the crew to maintain safety and proper order on board.

For luggage that exceeds this limit (over 50 kg or 1m³), Hellenic Seaways may apply extra charges or decline transport, depending on available space and company policy.

The company cannot be held liable for money, valuables, or personal belongings left unattended in the vessel’s public areas.

The carriage of flammable or other hazardous materials is strictly forbidden.

Discover the story of the vessel:

Construction, delivery and service entry (2022)

AERO 3 Highspeed was built in 2022 by Brødrene Aa in Hyen, Norway, completing the series of three “AERO Highspeed” catamarans commissioned by Attica Group for Hellenic Seaways. The vessel’s delivery was officially announced on July 13, 2022. All three sister ships entered scheduled Saronic Gulf service on August 8, 2022 and were formally inaugurated in Piraeus on September 9, 2022.