Travel Update

Information Sources: The most reliable sources of information that I use and often quote on this page are Greek Travel Pages, eKathimerini, Destination Greece, Aegean Air,  and of course, Hydra's news service Fonitis Ydras.

UPDATED 19 December, 2021

As of today, for entry into Greece EVERYONE over the age of 4, must have the 72 hr PCR (molecular) coronavirus detection test or 24 hr rapid test whether vaccinated or not.

This applies to:

Greek nationals and visitors whether travelling by air, sea or road

The precondition applies whether vaccinated or non-vaccinated.

All travellers must wear masks on transport (planes, boats, ferries, cars, taxis, buses, etc.)

All travellers must complete their Passenger Location Form (electronically) 48hrs prior to arrival

Travellers to Greece who have not been vaccinated and who are diagnosed positive for the coronavirus are subject to temporary detention at home or in a suitable place of temporary residence indicated by the competent authorities, for ten days. Those who have completed the full vaccination (fourteen days prior) who are diagnosed positive are placed in a temporary isolation for seven days. It is highly recommended that visitors obtain travel insurance to cover any costs of having to extend their stay in case of infection.

Specifically for Hydra residents and visitors, you must have evidence of your 72hr or 24hr test results with you to show when you board any sea transport to and from the island. This also includes children over the age of 4. Your full vaccination certificate is not sufficient on its own.

Once on Hydra

Everyone is required to have a full vaccination certificate with them (as well as their passport or ID) to enter cafes, restaurants, shops, tavernas, museums, exhibitions, public offices or events, etc., and must consent to having their QR recorded if asked for by the staff of any outlet or the police. If you are not fully vaccinated you are not allowed to visit or use the outlet's services.

In addition to full certificates, entry to every indoor premises requires a mask. Once seated, masks may be removed to enable drinking and eating, but if moving around to visit the toilet or to leave, your mask must be replaced until you are outside.

Social distancing is still required and everyone is asked to wash their hands regularly, use the hand sanitizers provided, to cough into their arm and to avoid socializing if they feel under the weather. Anyone with a cough, sore throat or any unexplained headache or temperature must immediately take a self-test and self-isolate until it is clear that they don't have Covid. Both pharmacies on Hydra are well stocked with self-tests and the Kouloros Hospital provide a very reliable checking service as well as return testing.