Cruise Europa
Operated by Minoan Lines
Cruise Europa
Operated by Minoan Lines
This ship is no longer operated by Minoan Lines.
This guide is applicable only for when the ship was operated by Minoan Lines and this information should not be used as a guide for the ships current or future operations:Equipped with cruise ship standard facilities, the Cruise Europa has a capacity of 3000 passengers, selection of cabins and being 225 metres long and 31 metres wide it can hold up to 963 vehicles. On board you will find à la carte and self-service restaurants, a swimming pool, gym, casino, a disco, a supermarket, an entertaining piano bar, shops, internet point, a variety of video games for older passengers and a children’s playground and much more.
Please Note: Whilst we have taken great care in making our Cruise Europa guide as accurate as possible, onboard facilities, services and entertainment may vary depending on the date and time of year that you travel, facilities mentioned may change without notification and ferry companies reserve the right to operate vessels other than those mentioned at time of booking without prior notification.
out of 5
32% of our customers recommended this ship
"An 11-hour delay with no explanation"
I was informed by Minoan Lines in a text message on 19 October that the departure sailing on 20 October at 18:00 would be delayed for 1 hour 30 minutes and would depart at 19:30. No explanation was given for the delay. I arrived in Ancona at 16:33 on 21 October, experiencing no delays en route. However, on 21 October, while on my way to Ancona via Milano, I received a text message from Minoan Lines that there would now be a 9 HOUR delay. The ferry would only leave on 21 October at 4:00 am. There was still no explanation given for the delay, which was now massive. I immediately booked a hotel room in Ancona near the ferry terminal so that I could get some sleep. This is in line with the EU legislation on passengers’ rights. Later, Minoan Lines announced that departure would be at 3:00 am, not at 4:00 am. I was only able to disembark in Patras at 2:40 on the morning of 22 October. The delay had now grown to close to 11 hours. I got no sleep that night. I have since read numerous negative reviews from travellers at TripAdvisor and talked to passengers that have tried to travel on Minoan Lines ferry services. Their comments about Minoan Lines are uniformly negative. I am now forced to conclude that what I have experienced is by no means an isolated incident but also, unfortunately, that little action is taken by Minoan Lines to change this situation. No other travellers should be forced to put up with the combination of incompetence, gross negligence and cynicism displayed by Minoan Lines. If I could give 0 stars, I would.
"Minoan lines"
I didn't travel with this ship and I am waiting to take my money back.
"Very Diappointed"
I received much misinformation from staff regarding this journey. I was repeatedly assured that the ship was equipped with WiFi but the wasNONE. As a result I lost a day of work as a result of no connection. The cost to me of many euros. I will seek reimbursement. The sink was blocked and did not drain, a nuisance the food and food service was very poor.
"Quality of services for peak seasons"
Appalling conditions when it comes to using the lifts at times of embarkation and disembarking turning lifts practically useless. Some restaurant service crew are overconfident and not welcoming at all. They looked like not enjoying the lob they were doing.
"Greece to Italy"
We found the ship. Clean and tidy including our cabin. We were disappointed that the sailing was delayed by 3 hours and the arrival by another hour. That threw our travel plans into disarray. Although in the main the staff were friendly we found one in particular who seemed to disregard what English speaking people were saying.
"Ancona to Patra"
We should have left Ancona at 6.30 but the boat left over 2 hours late. The embarking process was so disorganized and didn’t leave us any time to get our bags out of our car. Most of the staff were rude other than the waiters in the restaurant. We arrived so late into Patra that we didn’t arrive to our destination until 1 am. Not the best experience we’ve had.
"Very disappointing trip!"
The ferry on 6 July was over two hours late sailing from Patras, and four and a half arriving in Ancona. Why it lost more time Ive no idea as the sea was a millpond. The communication from the crew was negligible, so I don’t know what the problem was and despite the fact that the ferry didn’t finally dock until after 19.00 (due 14.30), they didn’t open the restaurant at all at lunchtime and closed the cafeteria as if we were due to dock on schedule. It then took almost an hour to get off after we finally arrived. Not impressed! The last time I sailed with Minoan they were also nearly two hours late. Anek has been much better previously so I will book with them in future.
"Ritardi e ritardi"
In generale quello che mi aspettavo, il cibo è un po’ costoso ma staff e pulizia sono più che accettabili. Peccato i ritardi sia all’andata che al ritorno di più di tre ore che hanno avvallato coninsalata di tonno (immangiabile) o sneck e acqua... era meglio una colazione!
"Minoan ferry to Ancona Igoumenitsa Ancona"
Nice Ships, clean. About catering we just had a Capuccino in the morning for breakfast which was very expensive and not really good. The staff we met at the garage and reception was competent. I received SMS and e-mails with info about rescheduling the departing time two days in advance, both on going and return ships. It is nice to be aware of the delay, but If Minoan knows two days earlier about operational delays should increase speed or correct its time table.
"Good service on a comfortable ship"
We were perfectly satisfied with the service provided.
"C EST HONTEUX DE FAIRE ATTENDRE LES GENS !!"
Cela fait la 2ème fois que nous faisons la traversée Igoumenitsa - Ancône et je pense que ce sera la dernière ! La 1ere fois il y a eu un retard de 3h et la 2ème, un retard de presque 5h. Je ne comprends pas pourquoi les départs sont prévus à 1h du matin ? Comme s'ils ne pouvaient pas prévoir des départs plus tôt ! Le problème est que lorsqu'on arrive à Ancône, ils devraient penser que certains comme nous avons encore 9h de route pour arriver à chez soi !! Pour ce qui est du navire, il n'est pas très propre, les matelas sont durs, les oreillers horribles ! J'ai même eu l'impression que dans une de nos traversées, les draps n'avaient pas été changés !! Le restaurant coûte une fortune ! Bon enfin, en gros je ne conseille absolument pas cette traversée.
"Getting better, but still a long way off "
I’ll start with check in, I saw a lot of negativity when booking, my experience was swift, in fact I was in and out within 10 minutes! Now on to schedule and boarding, upon arrival I got told the boat was an hour late, by the time we sailed it was over two hours late! Embarking with my vehicle was a complete nightmare, one person waved you on, only for another to blow a whistle and tell you off.. The person in front of me nearly got crashed into several times after being left out in a dangerous position! Why can’t they completely unload the ferry before letting people on?! Once aboard, I was presently surprised, I saw loads of “horror” photos going around of people camping in corridors and pretty much anywhere they could get.. Pleased to say that all those problems have been sorted with signs and regular staff patrols. The room is what it is, I shared with 3 others, they where nice guys. The general cleanliness was good. On to the food and drinks, again, “horror” stories before I boarded, to be completely honest, I have mixed reviews on this. The coffee is 3€ for a paper cup, is it the worst? No.. But it’s not that great, especially for the money. Dinner was reasonably priced for the portions you got, it wasn't as bad as I was expecting, 8€ for a very good portion of pasta and meat with Parmesan.. 70c for a bread roll.. Breakfast was the biggest rip off, rather than do a set menu, they charge you per item and I ended up paying 11€ for a sausage and a few bits of horrible bacon and a cherry yogurt which wasn’t that great either. They do a fast food bar on the top deck, I saw a pizza advertised for 14€ and didn’t hang around to find out more! Beer was 4/4.5€ a pint. The biggest problem has to be their schedule, we left 2 hours late, we arrived in igoumenitsa nearly 3 hours late, then had another 5.30hrs to Patras, I asked to disembark in igoumenitsa so I could carry on from there. I was in Athens before 8pm, if I would have stayed on the ferry to Patras, I wouldn’t have gotten Off the ferry until gone 8.30pm, and that’s assuming they didn’t have anymore issues!
"Minoan lines"
Excellent we will be using this service again
"Ancona to igoumemitsa and back"
Great journey on a very comfortable boat ! Booking process very easy and direct ferries very helpful when I returned two days early and needed to change my booking
"Clearing of damage"
Hello, Since you cancelled the crossing I had chosen, I received as information a compensation of 60Euro will be offered. I wrote an email to info@grimaldi.napoli.it Because with this modification my client had to take advantage of one more hotel room. So I wrote a week ago but I still haven't had any news. Can you help me with that?
"Dirty, badly maintained & expensive"
Really not good enough, the communal areas were dirty sofas and chairs were worn, toilet areas in a poor state of repair. Corridors were filthy. Staff uninterested, generally had the impression the ferry runs for the convenience of the crew. The customer is just a cash cow. The cabin shower/sink was blocked and had to be repaired, franky the crew must have known beforehand as it was swimming in dirty water. The price of food & drinks was completely over the top. I hope I never have to use this ferry again. Oh and the ferry was late arriving....just to cap it off.
"Disappointingly late"
On the day of my trip I received a text advising that the leave time had moved from 1 am to 5 am. No explanation given as to why. But I had to be at the dock no later than 1 am so a long and uncomfortable wait dockside followed. We were late on arrival in Ancona, not docking until 11pm ( Greek time). I was given a voucher for a snack and also 6 Euro meal deal due to the lateness. Both were helpful guestures but did not compensate for the late running and consequent impact on onward travel plans. Facilities at dick 12 in Igoumenitsa weee appaulling - one old portaloo which was filthy.
"The worst travel experience "
The trip was Horrible! The ship Is heavily out dated and very dirty! The luxury cabin is far from it! Although compared to the basic ones I’m sure it’s a step up! The constant ‘heavy’ vibration of the ship Is very disturbing and was told it’s because it’s a fast Ferry! Really?? Made it very difficult to sleep! Linen was dirty bathroom was dirty Too few staff to help! People allowed to sleep pretty much anywhere! Which compared to the expensive cabin! Makes Sense!! If you really want to save time from driving and save money it’s the only alternative choice if your coming from Italy! Otherwise a drive through the lovely Greek countryside is what I would suggest!
"800 out of control Italian school children on-board"
The ship was fine, but clearly some deal has been struck with some Italian schools (Perhaps to boost winter sales?) meaning 800 children were onboard and ‘running-riot’ at night. The teachers who should have been in charge were nowhere to be seen. The kids were shouting/chanting in the corridors, knocking on doors, playing loud music etc.. I had to find a crew member at 1am to help sort it out. The crew member had been left to deal with it all himself which was very unfair and he did very well in the circumstances. It needed a team to patrol the cabins and other areas. If this is going to be a regular feature of these sailings then we’ll travel with one of the other operators. We paid 250 euros to get some sleep....,
"Easy option"
Great option for electricity to keep fridge running. Dog friendly cabin was near lift to take dog to kennels and walk area. Benefit from more clean up equipment. Cre2 were all very helpful and friendly. Disabled access from garage 5 is very poor, stairs only to level 7.
"Filthy cabins"
The a la carte restaurant was nice and the waiter was excellent but the cabin was disgustingly filthy, I had to take antiseptic wipes to all the surfaces as they were all full of dust. We had a ‘pet friendly’ cabin which we paid a premium for, the cabin was full of dog hair, even the bedsheets were full of dog hair (we have a white poodle who’s hair doesn’t shed so these short and longer dark dog hairs were definitely not from our dog). It was disgusting. Surely the reason you charge more for a pet friendly cabin is because you have to spend more time cleaning it?! Not in this case. If you are travelling on foot there is a very long walk from the boat to the exit at igoumenitsa. Also the first escalator didn’t work so we were forced to carry heavy cases up a steep flight of stairs and down these stairs to exit the boat
"Much improved performance"
I travel this route to Italy/Greece 2 to 4 times a year. This time the boat sailed at the time it said and arrived at the time it said it would. Bravo. I either stay in a cabin if accompanied but this time I was travelling by myself and used the First Class Airline type seats. They were great and I slept very well. The showers were fine as well.
"Awful"
We were booked to travel from Patras to Venice, having travelled the day before from Chania to Piraeus. During that journey we received a text message from Minoan telling us that the ship we were travelling on had changed. There was also a phrase, "SKIP Ven Call" which meant nothing to us. When we checked in at Patras (4 hours before leaving) we were told that our ferry wouldn't be travelling to Venice and that we would disembark at Ancona, some 375 kms away from where I expected to be. We'd apparently been told the day before but the only text was advising of the ship change & "Skip Venn Call" which meant nothing. They offered a refund or €60 in compensation - neither of which was particularly useful when you are stood on the dock waiting to depart. If I'd wanted to travel to Ancona I would have booked with ANEK!! The staff on the ship were generally arrogant and rude. I had dinner in the a la carte restaurant and ordered a beer. I then asked for a glass and was asked what was wrong with the ones of the table. They were wine glasses. I told him so and his response was, "thats all we've got". The meal was advertised as coming with risotto and vegetables. The "risotto" was boiled white rice, and on querying was told that ,"on this ship that's risotto" There were no vegetables. I was presented with the bill before being asked. It was just thrown on the table. At one point 2 members of staff were having a major argument in the middle of the restaurant. The cabin was , "OK" but needed refurbishment. At least the beds were clean and quite comfortable, albeit our "sea view" room consisted of looking at the side of a lifeboat with virtually no view of the sea at all. Considering I had book 7 months before I would have expected a half decent view. Overall the trip was not enjoyable. Drinks and food on board were expensive, service was generally rubbish, and their communication skills definitely need some work. I suspect that there weren't enough passengers and freight to warrant the ship going to Venice and so they amalgamated the Venice contingent with the Ancona ship, and "stuff" the passengers who were expecting to go to Venice. I specifically booked this ferry because it fitted my arrangements by going to Venice - it ended up costing me additional toll Autostrade fees and an extra nights hotel accommodation, + additional fuel.
"Igoumenitsa - Ancona. 2359hrs, sat 22nd October 18"
On Sat 20 October 18: my wife and I boarded the ferry at Igoumenitsa in my car. While waiting at the dockside, I informed DF boarding staff that my wife is disabled and requested we be directed onto a vehicle deck where we could park close to a lift. In the event, we were ushered onto deck 5, where I was parked by less than polite staff. There was “No Lift” from deck 5. We were obliged to struggle the length of the vehicle deck through a mass of HGV to the stairway from deck 5 to Reception on deck 7. Mine was the only private car on deck 5. In recent years, we have boarded this same ferry service with no complaint. This recent trip was not good. I was informed in Igoumenitsa that departure would be 90 minutes late. We were directed to vacate our cabin more than 90 minutes before arrival at Ancona. It is to be hoped that our next DF trip from Italy to Greece in 2019 will be better. Christopher Coltman
"Our crossing"
OK not wonderful
"Disappointing "
The ship was too cold. The ship was 4 hour delayed and we were told at 2pm local time even tho they knew much before so there was no time to take another ship. The food was bad with no good vegetarian or fish options. The design is modern but has not much space for sitting or relaxing. People smoked inside the ship and it smelt bad.
"My experience on Minoan "
Dreadful! Staff appeared completely disinterested. Announcements throughout the night for inane purposes meant little or no sleep. No indication anywhere about opening and closing times of food outlets, lunch closed at 13.30 for example. Departure delayed by 90 minutes, arrival delayed by 3.5hours, sat in car for 45 minutes before disembarking, however we were given a free bottle of water and a cake. I will never use this service again which is a shame, from now on I go Superfast Ferries. Just for good measure the food in el Greco was awful, the only close to acceptable food was breakfast, they were closing (09.30) and wanted rid of the eggs and bacon so we got plenty.
""Cauchemar à bord...""
je viens de rentré de Grèce et mon voyage m'a amené à utiliser les "services" ( même si il n'y en a aucun...!!! )de la compagnie Minoan lines. Les bateaux sont peut-être adaptés pour accueillir autant de monde à bord, quoique...!!! mais l'organisation est déplorable et cela du guichet, jusqu'au débarquement. Le personnel est incompétent ( à part 1 ou 2 personnes, ce qui fait peu...!!! ), le bateau est sale et je ne parle pas des toilettes. Au retour, le bateau a eu plus de 2 heures de retard pour l'embarquement qui était déjà tardif puisque le bateau devait partir à 23h59...!!! Aucunes informations sur les raisons de ce retard, donc nous avons subi... A l'arrivée à Ancône plus de 40 minutes d'attente ( et cela dans une cohue incroyable )avant de pouvoir accéder au garage. Puis encore 25 minutes avant qu'une personne vienne pour "organiser" la sortie des véhicules. Je peux comprendre que ce jour là, la mer étant agitée, cela peut engendrer quelques soucis d'accostage, mais ce n'est pas non plus la première fois que la mer est forte... et ce qui n'excuse pas le retard ENORME que nous avons été obligé de supporter. La compagnie n'est pas consciente que les passagers ont aussi des contraintes et que + de 2 heures de retard modifient totalement l'organisation d'un voyage surtout pour les réservations d'hôtels. De ce fait, je demande un dédommagement pour le préjudice subi et j'espère que vous prendrez ma requête en compte. Voilà le récapitulatif de ma première et dernière expérience avec Minoan Lines. P.S: si j'avais pu ne mettre aucune étoile, je l'aurais fait...
"Minoan Lines - unreliable, not to be recommended"
We had booked a journey from Patras to Ancona on 16/17 August 2018. A week before departure, we were notified that the vessel would not call at Patras and that passengers who wished to travel that day needed to join the vessel at Igoumenitsa. No reasons were given for this change. We had to rearrange our car rental to allow for the return of the car at the rental office closest to Igoumenitsa (Aktio Airport) rather than at the Patras office, and had to travel by taxi from Aktio to Igoumenitsa. Despite the voyage as delivered being shorter by about a quarter, Minoan did not refund us part of the fare, let alone reimburse us for the costs of traveling to Igoumenitsa. Actually, this was my second experience this year of Minoan being unreliable. I had travelled from Igoumenitsa to Ancona 30 June / 1 July, and arrived 3 hours late. The ship itself has tiny cabins, insufficient in-doors seating, and insufficient on-deck seating sheltered from the sun and the 26-knot airstream. Disembarkation was chaos.
"A frustrating journey."
The wifi on board ship was not working.This has happened a few times before, it is frustrating when travelling and need to contact people. The ship was 2 hours late docking which meant we didn't arrive at our onward accomadtion until nearly midnight. The lack of wifi made it impossible to contact the accommodation. Also none of the clocks on board show the correct local time.The cabins are hard to navigate your way to and a colour coding system may work better.
"Journey from hell"
This ferry was a traveling zoo, crammed full and with crowds of undisciplined youths partying & drinking themselves to oblivion to 3 in the morning . There were people passing out and vomit everywhere. There were not enough toilets and those there were were blocked , filthy & overflowing. No cabins were available when I booked - I will never take this journey again without a cabin .
"Beautiful ship, disappointing restaurant"
The ship sadly sailed late (over an hour and a half I think). It was a beautiful evening however so we were able to watch Ancona fade into the sunset as we left port. The staff were friendly and very helpful. As it was a pretty special trip for us, I treated my daughter to a meal in the restaurant. The side dishes were very tasty but sadly both main meals were very bland and poor (although the portions were huge). This was very disappointing - I would use the self service restaurant next time.
"Party without beeing invited...."
I was really very astonished, that I was NOT INFORMED, that on the ship there where hundreds of young people making party on the deck. It was extrem loud, and I could sleep at all. No problem that young people celebrating the finishing of school and making party. But if you are suddenly a part of that you shoulfd be informed, whether you want to choose another day to travel.
"Diss satisfaction "
Completely misleading time timetable from January which the are not telling customers but saying 24 hours ahead of your trip it’s unfortunatly delayed ? Rubbish ! Both ships are delayed and not trying to make the time up which they could have in a fortnight ? Misleading desk eta of ships 4hrs before that they are only 1 hour late which changes to 2 then actually 4 and arrives at destination at 5 hours late compleatly ruining your hotel booking arrangements Use ANEK lines !staff don’t bark st toe and their on time 👌
"Review based on a trip from Ancona to Igoumenitsa in June 2018"
The ship was not clean. Our cabin was very smelly. Some facilities (e.g., swimming pool) were not operational. In the restaurant we asked for ice cream and we were told that they did not have any (in June !!!). The ship left Ancona with a delay of 3.5 hours and reached Igoumenitsa 3.5 hours later than schedule.
"Improvements"
Best journey from Ancona to igoumenitsa in 18 years. Improved food cabin very clean. One concern there are no suitable places for dogs to relieve themselves and always my dog takes a pee in the empty paddling area. Regards Jenny Langdon
"help to find ferry port"
there are many ferry ports around Venice many miles apart on my booking confirmation there was no port name it took us hours and visits to may docks before finding the right one
"Room for improvement "
Lack of instruction /directions of ship layout in cabin. Clocks on board giving 2 different time zones. Asked to vacate cabin far too early so staff can clean for a quick turnaround. Breakfast served between 7am and (am. We wee asked to vacate cabin at 7am and wait in reception, thus making breakfast impossible.
"Faded elegance "
The process to board and get checked-in went very smooth. Checked in in just a few moments at the office 2 hours prior and had a small 30min wait in the vehicle line until we were permitted to board. After parking on board, a quick stop at the reception and I had my room key and was free to explore. The room (single room, outside) : as expected, small, but adequately clean. Contains small shower and toilet. The only complaint would be the mattresses - I don't think they have ever been renewed. In fact, the mattresses have a huge depression in the middle, and I spent the night imagining the countless bodies who slept there. The facilities: on board you can find a restaurant, a gift shop, a "casino" (slot machines), a video game arcade, a couple bars, a mensa/cafeteria, a pool, a "spa", pool (not in use) and a lounge. However everything showed signs of poor maintenance, age, and lack of care. Most of the lounge seats/couches were torn. paint was chipped, poor overall cleanliness, odorous, gruff staff, and dubious food choices. Extreme winds on deck prevented enjoying the outside, and was forced to huddle below. Overall - bareable but not enjoyable.
"Losing my car."
Trip at sea was fast good and confortable, cabin clean. However I did not note the parking deck number and come to collect the car found the lifts not working, crew unhelpful and spent the next hour being directed all over the boat, having a gammy leg this was extremely annoying. However will be using your line again.
"Ancona Ferry Trip 2017"
On arrival to the port of Patras it was unbelievably busy with hundreds of lorries queuing in two lanes. The process of collecting boarding tickets was horrendous and very unclear. We drove in to the port 2 hours prior to the ferry leaving as per the boarding instructions but then sat amongst the HGV's and were unable to get to the ticket office. There were no clear signs and the ones that were displayed were obscured by all the HGVs. Even theses vehicles were in the wrong lanes and there was anger, shouting and tooting of air horns. When we reached security they told us to turn round and collect our boarding passes, it was so stressful and left us in a real panic. We were left with just minutes to spare. It was absolutely ridiculous and a fiasco and one that we would not want to repeat. More staff and clearer signage should have been available. The actual ship and the ferry trip was fantastic.
"Boat trip from hell"
One of the worst experiences in my traveling life!!! From checking in and waiting two hours [no exaggeration] to receive ticket until arriving in Patras at 3.00 in the morning the following day, this was nothing but painful. The boat was as old as the Roman times, the toilets were like a sewage plant, the food was ordinary with only one option from the buffet and panini from a disgruntled staff member. Lost a full day and a half as redirected via Igoumenitsa [not on the original plan as change in boats last minute] without compensation. Also missed out on planned events with friends and family as boat took forever. The only favourable note was that it didn’t sink!!! Two days lost and all at sea.
"Loading/Unloading"
Dear Sir, There are several parts to this review, but first of all I would have liked to give NO stars for punctuality but the system did not allow this. 1. Ancona to Igoumenitsa. The loading arrangements at Ancona were chaotic. On all cross channel ferries there are lanes to which one is directed; not at Ancona. It will not do to argue that such arrangements are only the responsibility of the port. Minoan Lines use the port and should inform the port just how chaotic and incompetent the port arrangements are. Minoan lines pay for the use of the port and should attempt to ensure that such facilities are provided in a suitable manner. I now realise just how competent and efficient P&O cross channel ferries actually are. When we finally got on board it was not clear where to go since no one directed us. Finally someone did. Once on board I found that the swimming pool had been closed. No reason was given for this, perhaps this is indicative of EU arrogance. It was open the following day but how could one dry one's swimming costume in time? The restaurant was fine and the service therein also fine. We had a good night's sleep and arrived in Igoumenitsa about 1 hour late. Considering the late departure from Ancone it was clear that some time had been gained. 2. Patras to Ancona. If the loading arrangements at Ancona were chaotic, the scenes at Patras transcended mere chaos and disorganisation. To say the place was disorganised does not begin remotely to describe it; disorganisation implies that there was some organisation, but at Patras there was none. After clearing customs (a tiresome process best described by Saki) there was no indication as to where to park. I asked several members of staff, who were not easy to find, as to where to wait but all I received was a vague wave of the hand. This was after asking in Greek. The ship was said to scheduled to leave at 19:00; I received a text message to say the departure would be at 20:30; it was actually well after 21:00 when we finally set sail. We had hoped to pick up time on the crossing; this turned out to be a vain hope. We were due at Ancona at 15:30; we were actually disembarking at about 19:00 probably even later than that. This meant that our arrival in Bologna was after 23:00 because we could not guarantee an arrival before 22:00 in order to eat at the hotel. Disembarkation at Ancona was, of course chaotic. Whilst on the boat the pool was closed; after a tiring and sweaty wait at the port it would have been nice to use the pool, but this was not possible. There was, of course, no explanation. Restaurant facilities on the boat were fine and made up for some of the frustration. We discovered that the boat stopped on the way to Ancona at Igoumenitsa, which occasioned the delayed arrival. Passengers at Igoumenitsa embarked at about 01:00 or so (we were asleep), which meant a very late time to enter cabins. However, the restaurant did not stay open later to allow those who embarked at Igoumentisa more time. This did not affect us at all, but it does illustrate the poor service given by Minoan Lines. 3. Th real problem was the design of the boat, which did not permit roll-on roll-off loading. This meant that loading times were considerably longer and entailed delays. I do recognise that Minoan Lines have a more difficult job than cross-channel ferries in that there are two pick up points and two set-down points, but ro-ro ferries have been used on cross-channel ferries for decades, so they are hardly a new idea. If you have the courtesy to respond to this review, kindly address yourselves to the points therein, I am not interested in superficial waffle or feeble excuses. Could do better.
"Bad Experienec"
The ferry was supposed to depart from Ancona at 17:00. The journey canceled and the new time was 22:00. Finally the ferry departed at 23:00 and we arrived to Igoumenitsa at 13:00 next day. Totally 6 hours delay.
"Cheapest price"
Website gave cheapest price. Ship huge. Booked deck space but slept in airplane seat lounge. Lucky three seats in a row so could lay down and sleep. Food expensive ok but no vegetables! Good crossing. Boarding speedy. Ship could do with a bit of a refurb but for price we paid ok. Ship an hour and a half late received food voucher for a cold drink and chocolate croissant. This was return leg but on journey going out from Ancona to Igoumenitsa ship 5 hours late and no voucher as had already gone through check in point so couldn't go back to enquire. As travelling in motorhome though no problem. Sat on quay in sun very pleasant. Would use again.
"No good. "
6 hour delay. Left waiting in car for hours. Messy boat with lots of kids sleeping and using all the loungers leaving no where to sit. Small cabin with blocked shower and no way of turning the air condition down so very cold cabins. Very expensive too. Cigerattes cheaper then coffee
"Very late"
The ferry left Patras over four hours late, was further delayed by interminable loading at Igoumenitsa, and finally reached Ancona just as darkness fell, over five hours behind schedule. On board there was little attempt to keep passengers informed of progress and estimated arrival time. (Although in the hours prior to departure Diectferries sent texts warning of a three hour delay.) On board, staff at the ship's enquiries desk were cordial and helpful if starved of information themselves. The ship's wi-fi was out of order (which may have been a blessing as apparently it costs an exorbitant €8 per hour).
"Very bad"
Your company sells the tickets expensiver than real price and this minoan line is an untrustable company , they had 3 Uhr delay and in deck no active pool, no wifi , very dirty and unfriendly staff, also i need my baby medicin wich was in my car and after long discussion they didnot let me to take it from my car , you feel like alcatras jail ! So the cabin had nothing inside and very dirty , i will never use this company again.
"Appalling"
The service on board ship and the attitude towards my dogs was appalling to say the least, suffice to say I will never use Minoan Lines ever again.
"Minoan Lines Ancona to Igoumenitsa"
Facilities on board good. Travelled from Ancona to Igoumenitsa, very big ship. Ship was 5 hours late leaving but didn't expect punctuality with being a sea vessel. Food in cafe ok. Slept on Pullman seats overnight. Would use again. Pleased with Direct Ferries booking good price and all went smoothly.
"Ancona"
Everything during the trip was perfect except of the fact that the ship had a delay of 2.5 hours. This delay affected our trip through Europe afterwards.
"Pretty poor - suggest you take a look at how Brittany ferries treat their customers"
Very poor directions to Venice terminal eventually having found it no Minoan signage at all Late departing no information given Smoking allowed by lorry drivers indesciminantly No dog exercise area .... therefore messing everywhere Lack of towels and bedding in cabin No seating on deck Paid for outside cabin and got a view of lifeboat only No safety information other than posters
"clean and nice crews"
This is off season so not so many customers there. 1st class seat is not really comfortable to sleep, but I could use several seat so it was OK:) Relaxing at top deck in the afternoon with a cappuccino was very nice! Same as the rooms, this place is no dust really clean. Just smokers are not really separated, so I needed to escape from smoke. Overall, for the price it was good experience. Catering is 4 star because of price, kebab for 16 euro..
" Late! Late! Late!"
After over an hour late arriving at igoumenitsa for a 01.00 dep. we finally arrived in Ancona about 19.00 crew forgot to open doors to garage on deck 7 when they finally let us onto garage deck it took until about 20.00 - 20.30 to disembark. Never again Minoan lines, Cruise Europa!!!
"Ancona to Igoumenitsa "
Very pleasant journey, cabin was clean, not spacious but we didn't expect it to be. Cabin was warm, but bar and restaurant areas were cold. Food in the cafeteria was over priced and not fantastic.
"Greek Road Trip"
Very impressed that the Ferry arrived on time at Ancona and departed on time. Arrived in Ancona on time and I had disembarked in half an hour of docking. Cabins were immaculate and the ferry generally very clean and tidy, staff helpful and friendly. Thank you Minoan.
"nice ship, shame about the staff!"
The ship is lovely, well equipped, clean and at the time of year when we travelled (Nov) it was relatively quiet. Of course everything on board is expensive but that is expected. The actual journey was good but we did ask a few of the staff for help (simple things) but they were either rude or totally disinterested. One actually shrugged his shoulders and walked away. Nobody on the ship cares about anything apart from taking your money, or gave the impression that they liked their job. Real shame for such a nice ship. All the components are there, they should be proud to work on such a lovely place. One problem is that there's no showers for passengers, with the long Patras/Ancona trip I thought this should be provided, it is on other ships
"Igoumenitsa to Trieste"
We enjoyed our very relaxing ferry trip. In our experience though the ferry always arrives late and it is a bit chaotic embarking and disembarking. The food is very good and good value. Do be careful buying coffee in the bar as we were overcharged. However on the whole the crew are very friendly and helpful.
"Trip to Ancona"
The ferry was OK, but I was disappointed that passengers were sleeping in the public areas, especially when the ferry was only partially full. It made it more like an immigrant ship rather than a respectable ferry,
"Trip to Ancona"
The ferry was OK, but I was disappointed that passengers were sleeping in the public areas, especially when the ferry was only partially full. It made it more like an immigrant ship rather than a respectable ferry,
"Trip back from Patras"
VERY disappointed by Direct Ferries. Not informing me of the ferry cancellation from Patras to Trieste. Got to Patras on the day of my return only to be told that the ferry was no longer going to Trieste but only as far as Ancona. Minoan Lines told me that DIRECT FERRIES SHOULD HAVE INFORMED ME >>>>>>> BUT THEY DIDN'T. BE AWARE that this could happen to you. I would recommend the ferry line to others but NOT going through DIRECT FERRIES. I wonder whether they will get in touch with me as a result of this review? I doubt it.
"Good flexible return service"
The best thing we have found with Minoan Lines over the years is their efficiency and helpfulness over changing return dates. No fuss they just do it . This is real peace of mind.
"Roadtrip through Europe"
We drove by car from Finland to Ancona, Italy, to take Minoan Lines with a car to Igoumenitsa, Greece. It was a pleasantful journey also by the ferry. We had a cabin and it was fine. We didn't eat on board so that's why my rating of one star, as it can't be not rated. Very clean everywhere. The only thing I was upset about, was that there's no free wifi. It can be purchased, but the price for half an hour...5 euros, or 8 euros for an hour! Tickets we purchased in advance, but they need to be picked up from Minoan offices at the harbour. So no prints.
"Patras"
Having travelled by Anek outbound and told Minoan was better was disappointed with cleanliness - dog mess everywhere at end of trip, food and drink expensive in comparison . If had to choose if travelling again would use Anek
"A very pleasant crossing. Staff were friendly and helpful"
We enjoyed the journey with no problems. The staff were pleasant. The food was adequate but a little expensive. We were required to leave our cabin rather prematurely we thought and then had a long wait for disembarkation.
"Thoroughly enjoyable"
We booked a twin cabin with sea view which was really spacious and comfortable. The whole ship was smart and clean and it never felt busy - no queues at the self-service and plenty of tables in the bars and restaurants. All in all a very enjoyable experience and we arrived in Greece feeling refreshed for our onward journey.
"Really good"
I was pleasantly surprised at the standards on this trip
"discreet experienc"
We took the junior suite, but the cabin showed few fault: tv was not working; door could not be locked from the inside; the ligh on the bedside table was really low. In the end was anyway a comfortable trip with no problems.
"Our crossing from Ancona to Igoumenitsa with Minoan Lines"
I gladly write this review, because the trip was a really good one. Punctual from the beginning to the end, nice and friendly staff, clean. We were really lucky, nice crossing started in Greece and the return looked like beeing in a cruise. Goodbye
"Excellent"
Well organised,clean, great well prepared food,comfortable cabin and lovely staff. A faultless experience for us both.
"very friendly"
Very enjoyable trip
"Ancona Igoumenitsa and return"
The ship left the Igoumenitsa with 1 houre delay, and depsite the really quiet sea we arrived to Ancona with more than 2 hours delay. To be improve the landing procedure, you have to spend 30 minutes inside the garage with stupid people who turn on the motor to go nowhere. Really expansive self service, €3.20 for a coffee at the bar; on the return we brought our food and water. I recommend the ship but you have to be aware of these things.
"Trieste Patra with Sofoklis Venizelos"
The trip was overall 1 hour late, in Igoumenista may be two hours late but caught up one hour to Patra. NO wifi, no internet stations to rent, but the ship was relatively empty and clear. TV with Greek and Italian stations available, archades room (permenantely empty). I did not use a cabin, cannot evaluate their services there.
"review"
all perfect in the crossing Ancona-Patras. Bar too expensive. Nice staff. Have a nice
"bad experience"
route ancona-igoumenitsa, departure on time but the ship was very dirty with people and dogs sleeping everywhere.
"2 different ships"
ok for Cruise Olympia, no for Cruise Europa
"open spaces"
we couldn't sleep outside as with Superfast Ferries. So we were all inside at bar. They should improve the outside area.
"bad experience"
We travelled in the route Ancona-Patrasso with Minoan Lines, on the outbound with Cruise Europa and on the return with Cruise Olympia. We booked a cabin so everything went well on the outbound, but on the return we had reserved seats business class. nightmare. departure 2 hours late, people everywhere sleeping, screeming, drinking and eating. dirty toilets. uncomfortable seats. self service restaurant too expensive. (3sandwiches, one croissant and 2 cappuccino €12)
"bad experience"
We travelled with Minoan Lines on the 22 of August with 2 reserved seats, business class. Comfortable seats but people everywhere sleeping and screaming. Staff on board not friendly or polite at all. Great online booking system with DirectFerries
"did what it said on the tin"
I had a passage only ticket, which meant kipping where I could and hoping that my belongings stayed safe. There was no information on the ticket or emails explaining what to expect; most crucially it would have been helpful to be directed to the deck where the sleeping chairs were rather than just dismissed at the reception desk. I also think ferries like this ought to have lockers for valuables/luggage belonging to passage only customers. There's plenty of wasted space on these vessels in the form of multiple lounges and expansive foyers; converting just a small zone to secure storage lockers would be inexpensive and would make the world of difference to travellers not having to lug their belongings round the whole time they're on the ship.
"not completely satisfied"
I'm disappointed for the service on board. We booked an outside cabin but in front of our window there wasn't the sea but lifeboats. The cabin was a 3berth cabin but we found only 2towels. The ship needs more maintenance because few lights in my cabins didn't work, problems with the sink and the toilet doesn't flush down everytime. The cabin was too small considering the price that I paid, over €900 for 2 crossings and Not even the breakfast was included in the price. You have to pay for everything. Boarding process slow and not well organized. Next time I'll try another company.
"too expensive"
I've been to Croazia on June with Jadrolinjia and the prices on board are affordable. 4 berth cabin €4,00 extra each person, 4berth cabin with Minoan €96 each… I think it's too much for a 6hours crossing. On board, €4,00 for a coffee. And not to mention the lady at the reception that she does not know what it means to be polite (if someone does not want to work with the public I think it's better if they work in the engine department)
"ship Olympia"
comfortable seats, perfect ship
"Good trip"
Our trip on board the Cruise Europa and the Cruise Olympia was very pleasant. The cabin was neat and clean and the facilities on board were good. Everything was clear and the ship was punctual. We are very satisfied!
"racism and terrorism"
The trip on Minoan Lines was excellent. The staff on board was lovely but the staff at the port in Greece was awful. Tey try to steal money to the driver asking for more money, saying that if he doesn't pay he can't board, and just because we booked through an agancy and not directly at the port. Obviously he didn't pay.
"A journey with two dogs"
The area in which the pets are transported is not adapted. The kennel is run-down and it's unacceptable that there is nowhere you can bring the dogs to do their business.
"Decent"
The confort is decent. However, the price of the coffee is not: 3€ I was controlled by an employee who told me that I was not in the economy area… I had a ticket for the ABS class (not economy) The announcement are sometimes difficult to hear.
"bring cash"
No cash machine or Bursar on board, only the restaurants have card machines, not the bar! so make sure you bring cash.
"A good prestation"
The loading and the unloading of the vehicles were easy. We were quicly welcomed and given the keys to our cabins. The facilities on board and the lounges are pleasant. There are two possibilities to eat: a self service restaurant and a table service restaurant (the food was similar). You can enjoy the deck from a table and an outdoor bar. A good service overall
"Everything was great "
Igoumenitsa Trieste and back. ship on time, staff very friendly and helpful, ship very clean, food was good but expensive. Very pleasant crossings, everything OK.
"customer friendliness "
Very long wait at reception, for the tickets to the cabin respect! The organization at the reception we experienced as a disaster. Finally get the tickets - were nowhere to employees who could show us the direction to the cabin. After a long time we have found the cabin, but the room card did not work - the whole thing started to wait at the reception from the front. On deck it was very dirty, the dirt on the floor, overcrowded rubbish bin etc. - just awful. For 10 years, we take minoan and have always been satisfied. The trip this year was was the exact opposite - we could hardly believe it.
"Dogs on boat "
It would be necessary to create a separate dog area. I had with a dog, but it's the other guests hardly reasonable that the dogs pee everywhere there!
"Perfect"
excellent journey from Ancona to Igoumenitsa, the ferry was clean with all sorts of things to do onboard.
"Some seats please"
A very nice company, but not enough seats on the deck… not to mention the deck chairs which were chained up and weren't there at all during the inbound crossing. A pleasant restaurant and a clean cabin. A delay of 2 hours for the outbound journey.
"In need of improvement"
The Zeus Palace (outbound) wasn't very confortable. We were shaken up during the majority of the night. It was not because of the sea, which was very quiet. The boat was very old and there was almost no infrastructure to keep the passengers entertained. In need of improvement.
"only 24 hours "
First impression: quite OK, cabin large enough and clean, the price of the crossing is okay. first minus point: the first beer on board at the bar: bad poured and 4, - € for 0.4 l too expensive. Similarly, some high-priced and in terms of quality not quite right, the self-service restaurant. For a cappuccino 4, - Euro is not cheap. second and much heavier drawback: for guests with dogs was either not a dog toilet available, or guests let their dogs pee and shit everywhere without being charged from the staff, including right beside the pool and on the paths used by all passengers.
"Igoumenitsa - Ancona "
No Internet, only for a fee! 18 hour ride, possibly of advantage if there were internet! Food ok, not too overpriced! 1-class-seats great, were okay. that the light on the deck has to be switched on is a pitty. On the whole, a good alternative to ex Yugoslavia! In some places you could finf dog-excrements, not very appetizing!
"our crossing Ancona/Igoumenitsa"
We were excited at the idea of enjoying both our mobile home and the fresh air of the sea going towards the upper deck with our campervan. Unfortunately, we were quickly disappointed. We were not allowed to stay aboard the campervan and the deck access was locked. We thought that we'll surely be able to find a cabin at an attractive price, as there aren't many people. "140 euro" was the cheapest. We'll sleep on the floor, in the dust, with the noise. We have booked and paid a long time ago though. Plus we met other people with campervans who paid less and were offered a cabin.
"Motorbike trip to Zakynthos"
We can't recommend the Ancona to Patras crossing enough - we travelled at the end of August to early September. The Ferry arrived and left on time - the bikes were secured appropriately - the facilities were excellent, only wish I hadn't left my trunks on the bike so I could have used the pool!
"Patras Ancona"
I had a very bad experience because of the pets on the deck corridor which were smelly. I will not take this ferry again. Sorry
"A relaxing trip"
Excellent wellness centre!!
"nothing new: the choice depends on the time and the availability"
Services: quite satisfactory. Restaurant service: the bar has too high prices. Cleanness: acceptable inside the cabins and the inside areas, to be revised on outside deck. Staff on board: polite and helpfull, they have to revise the disembark operations. They ask to leave the cabin too early. Also, the disembark in Ancona was delayed, at least for passengers on the upper deck.
""
The crossing and the embarkment from Patras went well, although they mean that the holidays are over. However, there is a real mess at disembarkment, most particuluarly regarding the access to the garages… the indication weren't clear and we had to wait crammed in walkway for ages
"Comment on minoa lines"
excellent ferry, excellent staff, excellent customer service
"Bon Voyage - I love Greece"
ideal solution for long journey in comparison with the other companies as they offer much more facilities, the only negative aspect is about the price of the cabin which is too expensive.
"Would I recommend any "
Unloading could still be systematic. Exclamations When can at German language could be spoken clearly and loudly from Reception,'ve Got nothing, all other languages were loud and clear. Thank you
"Special kudos to the staff at check in! "
Special praise for the service when you check quickly and competently. We were very grateful for the rapid correction of our electronic error with my account that could be corrected generous (despite the season), we had instead "Camping on Board" a recreational vehicle and twice booked deck, which is why we so according to our booking no entitlement to a cabin (and the excellent food) would have had. Thanks again!
"Enjoyable way to travel"
Keep in mind that this is a ferry and not a luxurious cruise ship. Sleeping is best done in a cabin, but this is not cheap. There was no water in the pool. The food in the self service and restaurant was OK, without question.
"Cool trip"
I was impressed by the luxury, and I thought it was worth it the cost. The hamam was a good surprise. I only regret it was not possible to switch off the light during the night in the nice space I was sleeping in (upper deck, on the left).
"Nervousness"
The staff who helps the people parking inside the ferry could be nicer and less nervous.
"Short term, earlier of board "
Because of the late arrival, I've decided, earlier (Ancona) to disembark. I attached the request at check-in. Was no problem. During the trip, everything was fine. Prices on board were very high.
"very pleasant "
A beautiful new shipand the voyageis like holiday. There I found it very pleasant, and there is nothing that this feeling would have seriously tarnished. Nevertheless, two points are named, who have not shown optimal: 1 Why did the first class dormitory closed, even though I have booked it there? I do not understand. Even in the off season but there could easily be opened if there is paying passengers, right? 2 After leaving the ship, there was an incredible traffic chaos, and there's ruthlessness and danger, not least because of the " stronger, " trucks. Could not regulate the traffic to leave the port? A little civilization would do well here!
"Minoan Lines never again!! "
First the staff: Mostly rude and ask already annoyed! If you order 2 drinks already overstrained! The announcements even if you stand under a speaker so incomprehensible that cannot understand anything. At the reception they just want to get rid of you. the lady felt disturbed in their PC game! The ship itself: The ferry was filthy, in the cabin toilet(sealed) pubic hair from its predecessor, the bedding also not clean. The fresh air supply is defective an unbearable air and heat in the Kabiene (reaction of the staff shrug) The food in the SB-Restaurant taste tolerable but everything ice cold, I can not understand why you cannot serve a turkey-steak and spaghetti Bolongnese ten minutes after opening of the SB can not serve hot! I already went with Minoan and always satisfied but such states as in 2013 I will never buy me again for expensive money!
"Delay"
Ancona Patra: timetable: ok, boat OK. Arrival in Ancone 2 hours late + 2 hours to leave the boat = 4 hours late.
"Good boat good crew"
Have nothing negative to say, I wish it would give even more choices when eating on the deck!
"Pleasant journey"
Cabin for 4, fine, comfortable room with a shower and a toilet. 24 hours of peaceful journey, although we was 1 hour late arriving.
"needs a lot of work"
Aircraft seating was taken by people who did not pay for it had to get someone moved! Obviously needs signs to state reserved and numbers on tickets and seats!! Toilets need cleaning more regular, generally facilities poor. But on the plus side staff generally good.
