This captivating historical photograph, attributed to Giorgos Moraitis, offers a fascinating window into a bygone era of travel and transportation in Greece. The image depicts a resourceful and undoubtedly common sight for its time: a car being ferried across the water between the picturesque island of Poros, Greece and the mainland port of Galatas on the Peloponnese. The year is 1952.
The ingenuity of the scene is striking. Instead of a modern car ferry, two traditional Greek boats are meticulously positioned side-by-side, acting as a makeshift platform to support the vehicle.
The car, possibly a Renault CV4 given its rounded silhouette, sits precariously yet securely across the gunwales of the two vessels. One man, presumably a boatman, is visible in the foreground, poised with a long oar, actively propelling or guiding the unusual cargo. Another figure can be seen in the stern of one of the boats, also contributing to the effort.
Cars ferried by small boats from the island
This image speaks volumes as to the challenges and solutions of travel in mid-20th-century Greece, especially for those venturing to and from the islands. Prior to the widespread availability of larger car ferries, such bespoke arrangements were essential for transporting vehicles across short sea passages. It was a time when ingenuity and collaboration were paramount in overcoming logistical hurdles is highlighted.
The serene backdrop of the mainland, with its scattered buildings lining the coastline, adds to the historical charm of the photograph. It serves as a powerful reminder of how much has changed in transportation infrastructure, yet also how the enduring spirit of adaptability has always been a hallmark of Greek island life.
Modern car transportation to Poros, Greece
Car transportation to the island of Poros has significantly evolved since the 1950s, with car ferries from Galatas being the most common and convenient mode.
Poros is quite close to the mainland port of Galatas on the Peloponnese, and a crossing only takes about five minutes. Small car ferries operate frequently (every 30 minutes or so during peak season) between Galatas and Poros, allowing vehicles to drive directly on and off. This is the modern, efficient version of what is depicted in the old photograph.
For those traveling from Athens, there are conventional ferries from the port of Piraeus that can transport cars. These journeys are longer (around 2.5 to 3 hours) and generally slower than high-speed ferries. However, they offer the convenience of bringing your car directly from Athens.
Poros in the Saronic Gulf, is known as the “green island” due to its lush pine forests that often spread out down to the clear turquoise waters.
The picturesque Poros Town, built amphitheatrically on a hillside with its iconic Clock Tower, boasts traditional houses, vibrant waterfront tavernas, and quaint cobblestone streets. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches such as Love Bay and Askeli, explore historical sites like the Temple of Poseidon, or go on a short boat trip to the unique Lemon Forest of the mainland.
Related: Poros: The ‘Little Venice’ of the Saronic Gulf Near Athens
