TL:DR
- GPS tracked island removals from mainland Greece or Ireland to Antikythera.
- Smooth ferry coordination, careful handling, and optional White Glove service.
- EU to EU move means no customs on household goods.
- Clear step by step plan for packing, paperwork, ferries, and delivery day.
- Flexible vehicle sizes from 5 m³ to 90 m³ to fit your move.
- Secure storage and split deliveries when your Antikythera home isn’t ready.
- Live ETA updates and fast support from real people, start to finish.
Moving to Antikythera Greece is more than just a change of address—it’s a leap into a slower rhythm of life where the sea whispers and time drifts with the tides. Imagine waking up to the hush of the Aegean, the faint ring of goat bells, and a sky so wide it silences thought. That’s Antikythera: a speck of Greek paradise between Kythera and Crete where time still follows the sun. But before the calm comes the chaos—boxes stacked to the ceiling, ferry schedules, fragile keepsakes that mean the world. That’s where VANonsite steps in. We turn moving stress into Mediterranean ease with GPS tracked vans, punctual crews, and a promise of safe arrival no matter how small or remote your island home.
Plan your Antikythera move with VANonsite
Why Antikythera captures hearts
Antikythera rewards those who crave quiet beauty and community warmth. Below is a fast snapshot so you know what life feels like on day one.
- Micro island calm, bird migration, lighthouse views, and friendly locals
- Essential services overview: small shops, medical visits from Kythera, limited ATMs and seasonality
- Connectivity snapshot: ferries via Kythera and mainland, weather dependent
- Who thrives here: remote workers, retirees, writers, sailors, minimalists
- Culture and daily rhythm: festivals honoring Saint Myron, quiet winters balanced by lively summer evenings, locals sharing fresh catch and stories at the café.
- Housing and utilities: traditional stone homes, limited new builds, solar water heaters, generators for backup. Property purchases are often handled through Kythera agents.
- Internet and connectivity: 4G coverage with improving broadband. Ideal for slow living with enough bandwidth for remote work.
- Shopping and supplies: essentials available locally, weekly ferry brings fresh goods. Plan larger purchases from Kythera or Athens with VANonsite consolidation.
Service links:
Snapshot of Antikythera vs popular bases for staging
Many families stage in Athens or Kythera, then complete the last mile to Antikythera once keys and timing are locked. Depending on your plans, you can choose one of three smart staging strategies: stage and ship, store and finish later, or shop and stage in the city before a single consolidated run to the island.
| Base | Travel rhythm | Best when | Pros | Cons | Storage options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antikythera | Quiet island life | Keys are confirmed and you already own core furniture | Serenity, tight community, stunning nature, immediate move in | Sparse services, weather can hold ferries | Minimal on island storage |
| Kythera | Neighbor hub | You want quick last mile and access to local trades | More ferry choices than Antikythera, bigger supermarkets | Requires an extra short leg to Antikythera | Limited short term storage |
| Athens (Piraeus) | Urban staging | You plan to buy furniture or import items and need flexibility | Abundant storage, sourcing, customs support, frequent flights | Longer final leg, city traffic and loading permits | Excellent short and long term storage |
| Peloponnese mainland | Coastal staging | You prefer a shorter mainland drive to southern ports | Avoids Athens traffic, simple road access | Fewer storage providers, planning needed for ferries | Basic storage in selected towns |
| Crete | Island staging | You are coming from the southern Aegean or Crete area | Larger supply market than small islands | Seasonal ferry patterns and longer sea legs | Moderate storage near port cities |
How to choose in 60 seconds
- List what you still need to buy and where. If it is mostly in Athens, stage there.
- Check your key handover date. If it may slip, pick a storage friendly base like Athens.
- Consider ferry season and weather. Build a buffer day and keep tracking links handy.
Tip: Planning a furniture run in Athens or Crete
after you get the keys? Combine it with our Packing and White Glove services, then consolidate one clean trip to Antikythera.
Your relocation timeline
A calm countdown with short tasks and pro tips. Each section ends with a one sentence checklist.
30+ days out
- Video survey and quote. Pick storage or direct delivery. Share access photos and any ferry constraints.
- Start decluttering and list bulky pieces that may need dismantling.
- Shortlist properties and confirm utility options on Antikythera.
21 days out
- Reserve the right vehicle size and crew. Confirm loading zones and quiet hours at origin.
- Book Packing Services or order materials.
- Line up paperwork you may need on arrival. See Paperwork section.
10 days out
- Pack room by room or schedule fragile only packing.
- Photograph cable setups and label hardware bags.
- Share any island specific access notes like steps from quay to home.
3 days out
- Final inventory. Confirm GPS tracking contact and ferry window.
- Reserve parking bays at origin and coordinate quay access on delivery day.
Moving day
- Fast walkthrough. Floors protected. GPS tracking activated.
- Keep documents, meds, jewelry, and small electronics with you.
Delivery day on Antikythera
- Pre call before docking.
- Short carry plan from quay to home.
- Placement and assembly. Removal of all packing.
Paperwork and registrations for Greece
EU to EU moves are straightforward. Household goods for personal use do not require customs clearance. What matters is registering the basics in Greece so you can rent, connect utilities, and access healthcare.
AFM tax number
The AFM is your Greek tax number. You will need it to sign a lease, set up utilities, and handle most official paperwork.
Where to apply: Local AADE tax office or via a representative.
What to bring:
- Passport or national ID
- Proof of Greek address or a lease intent letter from your landlord
- Contact details and a Greek phone number if available
- Completed AFM application form
Official guidance: https://www.gov.gr/en/upourgeia/oloi-foreis/anexartete-arkhe-demosion-esodon-aade/apodose-arithmou-phorologikou-metroou-aphm-kai-kleidarithmou-se-phusiko-prosopo
Pro tip: Book early. Landlords often ask for AFM before finalizing contracts.
AMKA social security
AMKA is your social security number. It unlocks access to public healthcare and is often requested by employers and clinics.
Where to apply: Citizens Service Centre (KEP) or relevant social security office.
What to bring:
- Passport or national ID
- AFM number
- Proof of residence in Greece
Official guidance: https://ypergasias.gov.gr/en/social-security/insured-persons/social-security-registration-number-amka/
Good to know: Bring copies of your documents and have digital scans saved for quick reissue.
EU residence registration if staying over 3 months
EU citizens must register their stay if it exceeds 90 days. This results in a Registration Certificate that is useful for banking and long term rentals.
What you typically need:
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address such as a lease or property deed
- Proof of employment, self employment, or sufficient resources
- Health coverage evidence such as EHIC or private policy
Where to start: Local Aliens Bureau or police department in your area.
Official guidance: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/residence/documents-formalities/registering-residence/index_en.htm
Healthcare basics and EHIC
Carry your European Health Insurance Card for transitional healthcare while you settle in.
Official guidance: https://health.ec.europa.eu/ehealth-digital-health-and-care/european-health-insurance-card-eu_en
Drivers coming from outside Greece
If you hold a non EU licence, check recognition and exchange rules before you drive on the islands.
Official guidance: https://www.gov.gr/en/sdg/vehicles/acquiring-and-renewing-driving-licence/driving-license-recognition-and-validity/non-eu-driving-licenses-exchange-recognition
Ireland movers callout: Get your exit admin squared away before sailing. Useful starting points:
Document checklist table
Use this quick list to stay organized from quote to keys.
| Document | Who needs it | Where to get it | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport or national ID | Everyone | Your national authority | 30+ days before move |
| AFM tax number | Adults renting, utilities | gov.gr AADE | As you secure a lease |
| AMKA number | Healthcare users, workers | Ministry links above | First weeks in Greece |
| Residence registration | EU citizens 90 day rule | EU and Greek official links | Within 90 days |
| EHIC card | EU citizens | National health service | Before departure |
| Lease or property deed | Adults renting/buying | Landlord or notary | Before move in |
Costs and how to stay in control
Pricing for an island move is transparent once you know the levers. Below we explain what shapes the quote and how to keep costs lean without risking delays or damage.
What drives the price
- Distance and access at both addresses
- Volume and weight in m³ and kg
- Packing scope and fragile items
- Ferries and seasonality
- Delivery speed and any storage
- Permits and loading plans
Get your precise removals quote
VANonsite vehicle sizes
Choosing the right vehicle keeps your move efficient and safe.
| Option | Approx. capacity | Max load | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | Studio essentials, student moves |
| Moving Medium | 10 m³ | 600 kg | One bedroom set, small furniture |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1000 kg | 1 to 2 bedroom apartment |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3500 kg | 2 to 3 bedroom home, office moves |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20000 kg | Large family home, villa |
Quick fit examples
Use these examples to estimate volume before your video survey.
- 5 m³ fits 15 to 25 boxes, a bike, a 55 inch TV.
- 15 m³ fits a two seat sofa, queen bed, dining set, 45 to 70 boxes.
- 30 m³ fits two beds, large appliances, outdoor gear, 70 to 120 boxes.
Sample scenarios to guide planning
| Scenario | Origin to destination | Likely vehicle | Complexity notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimalist studio | Athens to Antikythera | Moving Basic 5 m³ | One ferry, short carry from quay |
| 1 to 2 bed flat | Athens to Antikythera | Moving Premium 15 m³ | Fragile packing for glass and art |
| Family home | Mainland Greece to Antikythera | Moving Premium Plus 30 m³ | Two ferries in peak season |
| Ireland relocator | Dublin to Antikythera | Combination or staged loads | Storage in Athens then last mile |
Hidden costs to avoid
- Unreserved parking that forces long carries
- Underestimating volume that triggers extra trips
- Poor packing for TVs and glass that causes repacks
- No weather buffer during meltemi season
Cost levers you control
| Lever | Why it matters | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Decluttering | Fewer m³ means lower cost | Sell, donate, recycle early |
| Parking access | Reduces crew time | Reserve bays, share lift sizes |
| Packing scope | Prevents damage and delays | Book fragile only if on a budget |
| Flexible dates | Avoid peak charges | Offer a 2 to 3 day window |
| Consolidation | One delivery beats many | Group items and avoid partial loads |
When storage makes sense
If your Antikythera home is not ready, storage keeps the move simple. We can hold your goods in secure facilities and deliver essentials first, then complete the rest when you have keys.
Quote anatomy without prices
Use this model to understand where each euro goes and how to influence it.
| Line item | What it covers | How to reduce it |
|---|---|---|
| Collection and loading | Crew time, floor and corner protection, lift management | Reserve a parking bay, pre pack small items |
| Packing materials | Boxes, wraps, crating for fragile items | Book fragile only packing or supply some materials |
| Transport and fuel | Road distance to port and from final port | Choose a staging base closer to your route |
| Ferry charges | Vehicle ticket and any port surcharges | Travel outside peak sailings when possible |
| Last mile shuttle | Small vehicle for narrow lanes | Share photos in advance to plan the right vehicle |
| Storage | Secure warehousing and handling | Consolidate to a single delivery window |
| White Glove | Placement, assembly, debris removal | Pre assemble flat pack in the city when possible |
| Insurance | Enhanced cover beyond standard liability | Provide a high value inventory only where needed |
Ferry season planning calendar
| Season | Months | What to expect | Your move strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring shoulder | March to May | Mild weather, increasing sailings | Good time for flexible dates and lower congestion |
| Summer peak and meltemi | June to August | Busy ports, occasional wind holds | Add a buffer day and book early |
| Autumn calm | September to October | Balanced schedules, warm seas | Ideal for large moves and refurb plans |
| Winter storms | November to February | Reduced schedules and weather holds | Stage in Athens or Kythera and watch forecasts |
One minute cost audit
- Can you shift non essentials into storage and deliver them later with other purchases
- Can you offer a two or three day date window to unlock better ferry timing
- Can you reduce long carries with a reserved bay and a simple floor plan for placement
- Can you pre dismantle easy items like bed frames and tables
Volume self estimator
| Room or set | Typical m³ | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Studio basics | 5 to 7 | Boxes, TV, small table, bike |
| One bedroom apartment | 12 to 18 | Sofa, bed, dining set, 45 to 70 boxes |
| Two bedroom apartment | 20 to 28 | Two beds, appliances, outdoor gear |
| Family home | 30 to 45 | Larger wardrobes, books, sports gear |
Access time adders and fixes
| Situation | Time impact | Preventive fix |
|---|---|---|
| No reserved parking | 30 to 90 minutes | Reserve loading bay and notify neighbors |
| Fourth floor without lift | 45 to 120 minutes | Split loads into smaller boxes, add crew |
| Long carry from quay | 20 to 60 minutes | Trolleys, glide sheets, compact shuttle |
| Tight stair corners | 15 to 45 minutes | Dismantle large pieces and protect edges |
Ireland to Antikythera at a glance
- Collection anywhere in Ireland with inventory checks and packing if booked.
- Road transit to ferry and onward to Athens or Peloponnese staging.
- Storage if needed, furniture shopping or consolidation.
- Final sea leg to Kythera and short crossing to Antikythera when the window is right.
- Last mile placement, assembly, and recycling of packing materials.
Get your precise removals quote
Packing options that protect on a ferry route
Sea routes demand robust packing. Here is how we keep your belongings safe and your move serene.
- If we pack for you: custom crating for art, instruments, and glass. Full inventory and room mapping. Optional tamper evident seals.
- If you pack yourself: small boxes for heavy items, wrap plates vertically, double box TVs, protect mattresses, label two sides with room and priority numbers.
- Eco choices: reusable crates, paper padding, donate materials locally after move in.
Useful services: Packing Services and White Glove Delivery
Access, ferries, and the last mile on Antikythera
Access on small islands can be quirky. Planning removes friction and protects your timeline.
- Parking and permits at origin. Ask building managers about quiet hours.
- Quay coordination on Antikythera. Short carry planning from boat to home.
- Weather buffers and alternative crossings. Transparent ETA updates through GPS tracking.
Micro route survey checklist
- Measure door widths and stair turns. Photograph the tightest corners.
- Count floors and confirm lift size, if any.
- Note quay to front door distance and steps.
- Share street width or any bollards that restrict access.
- Tell us about quiet hours and building rules.
- Send a short video walk from the quay to the home entrance.
Port playbook
- Pre call with docking time and crew roles.
- Assign a quay spotter and a home spotter to keep flows smooth.
- Use short carry shuttles and trolleys to reduce time at the quay.
- Stage boxes by room code so placement is fast inside the home.
Access hurdles and smart fixes
| Hurdle | Fix | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| No lift to higher floors | Smaller boxes and split loads | Add crew and protectors |
| Tight stair turns | Dismantle large pieces | Bring tools and pads |
| Ferry delay | Buffer day and plan B | Live updates, adjusted ETA |
| No vehicle access on quay | Hand carry or compact shuttle | Trolleys, shoulder straps, glide sheets |
| Steep or cobbled lanes | Short runs and extra crew | Anti slip ramps, wheel chocks |
| Narrow doors or low lintels | Angle carry and remove doors temporarily | Corner guards, door removal kit |
| Night arrival or quiet hours | Quiet unload plan | Soft mats, reduced noise handling |
| Heritage floors or fragile tiles | Surface protection | Ram board, felt pads, shoe covers |
Equipment we bring for tiny island access
- Compact vans for shuttle runs, furniture dollies, piano skids.
- Stair climbers for heavy appliances and safes.
- Corner guards, door jamb protectors, ram board and carpet film.
- Straps, harnesses, and glide sheets for tricky carries.
Delivery day checklist
- Pre arrival call and parking setup with clear bay markers.
- Walkthrough and placement plan for every room.
- Floor and corner protection in high traffic areas.
- Assembly of beds and tables with hardware bags taped to frames.
- Box placement by labels and priority numbers so essentials open first.
- Appliance positioning and safe power up checks where applicable.
- Packaging removal and eco friendly disposal or recycling.
- Inventory count and sign off against the manifest.
- Quick photo record of final placement for your peace of mind.
- Handover of tracking link history and contacts for any follow ups.
Moving with kids, pets, or a home office
Families and remote workers thrive when the first days are smooth and predictable.
Moving with kids
- Create a comfort bag with snacks, pajamas, favorite toy, nightlight, and a fully charged tablet.
- Set up the kids’ room first so bedtime is familiar on day one.
- Keep a small box of school items handy so routines return quickly.
Kid first 48 hours kit
| Item | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Bedding and nightlight | Familiar sleep cues reduce stress |
| Basic toiletries and meds | No late night pharmacy run |
| Snacks and water bottles | Quick energy during unload |
| Small games or books | Calm moments while rooms are set up |
Moving with pets
- Check microchip number matches your documents and collar tag.
- Ensure a current rabies vaccine at least 21 days before travel.
- Pack collapsible bowls, spare leash, calming blanket, and waste bags.
- On ferry day, plan for shade, water, and short walks.
- In the first week, register with a local vet and note emergency numbers.
Official EU pet rules: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/carry/animal-plant/index_en.htm
Pet travel kit
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| EU Pet Passport | Border and ferry compliance |
| Microchip scan note | Match chip to passport number |
| Travel crate or harness | Safe transport during shuttles |
| Water, bowls, treats | Hydration and comfort |
| Spare towels | Quick cleanups and bedding |
Moving your home office
- Back up and encrypt drives before moving.
- Keep laptops, keys, and chargers in hand carry.
- On arrival, test Wi Fi, mobile hotspot, and VPN.
- Run a short video call test before your first meeting.
- Use a surge protector and consider a small UPS if power is unstable.
Home office day one kit
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Router and spare SIM | Internet redundancy |
| Power strip and surge protector | Protect devices |
| Webcam and headset | Clear calls from day one |
| Cable labels and ties | Fast setup and tidy desk |
| Document folder | Passports, contracts, and AFM copies |
FAQs
Real questions island movers ask, answered fast.
- How often do ferries run to Antikythera and what happens in a weather hold? Sailings are limited and seasonal via Kythera or the mainland. We build buffer days, coordinate with ferry agents, and if winds stop sailings we stage goods safely and update your live ETA the moment schedules reopen.
- Can you stage my load in Athens, then complete the last mile later? Absolutely. We can store your goods, consolidate new purchases, and deliver the final sea leg once you have keys and a clear weather window.
- Do you handle art and musical instruments with White Glove care? Yes. We use custom crates, humidity aware cushioning, and shock or tilt indicators, then place and uncrate items exactly where you want them.
- What are the quiet hours or loading rules in Greek villages? Many areas observe midday and evening quiet hours. We adapt slot times, use low noise handling at night, and coordinate any needed local permissions with you.
- Which items are restricted on ferries and in transit? No gas cylinders, fuel, flammables, wet paint or solvents, loose lithium batteries above ferry limits, or leaking liquids. Tell us about plants, alcohol, or perishables so we can advise safe alternatives.
- How does GPS tracking work with weak mobile signal? Our trackers cache position and sync once coverage returns. Near ports we provide manual check ins by SMS or phone if needed.
- Can you split part of my load into storage and deliver essentials first? Yes. We can deliver PRI1 essentials on day one and store the rest for a second run when it suits you.
- What insurance options are available for island deliveries? Standard carrier liability is included. We can arrange enhanced, itemised cover for high value pieces with documented condition at collection and handover.
- What vehicle sizes work on Antikythera’s streets? We often shuttle the final stretch with compact vans. Your main vehicle is chosen by volume; if lanes are narrow we transfer at the quay to a smaller van.
- Can you dismantle and reassemble furniture? Yes. We dismantle large items and reassemble at destination. Hardware is bagged and taped to frames so nothing goes missing.
- How should I prepare appliances for sea transport? Defrost fridges 24 hours before, empty water lines, secure doors, and fit transit bolts on washers. We can handle prep if booked.
- I work remotely. Can you prioritise my office setup? Definitely. Mark boxes “Home Office PRI1” and we’ll set up your desk first, test power and internet, and get you call ready.
Summary
In a nutshell: This guide shows how to move to Antikythera with less stress and more certainty. You learned why the island works, how to stage from Athens or Kythera, a countdown plan, official paperwork (AFM, AMKA, residence), true cost drivers and vehicle sizes, ferry and last mile strategy, packing protection, and family, pet, and home office checklists. The FAQ closes common gaps.
What to do now: Share your inventory, origin and destination access notes, and a must arrive date. We schedule your video survey, secure the right vehicle, lock ferry windows, and deliver room by room with careful placement.
Key takeaways:
- EU to EU simplicity with no customs on household goods.
- Right sized vehicles from 5 m³ to 90 m³.
- Staging and storage options when timing is fluid.
- Live GPS tracking and proactive ferry coordination.
- White Glove care for art, instruments, and premium items.
- Split deliveries and compact shuttles for narrow lanes.
- Clear pricing levers so you control the budget.
Ready to start? Get a quote and plan your route:
