Munich - Anek Lines has begun servicing destinations in the Aegean Sea, according to the Greek ferry company's general agent in Munich.

The company now departs the Greek mainland port of Piraeus six times a week for the Cyclades islands of Naxos, Santorini and Paros, and five times a week for the islands of Lesbos and Chios in the north-east Aegean Sea.

Previously, Anek Lines operated only from the Italian cities of Venice and Ancona to ports in western Greece, and on routes between Piraeus and the Greek island of Crete.

The company said that its new ship, the F/B Elyros, could carry up to 1,880 passengers and would operate between Piraeus and the Cretan port of Chania. Anek Lines has a total of 10 vessels in its fleet.

Travellers who book with the company before the end of March receive an early-bird discount of 10 per cent. Other special offers, and a new family rate with a 20-per-cent discount, will now be made available year-round for the first time. (dpa)