Are ferries reliable?

They are generally reliable, but they can be delayed or cancelled by high winds (Meltemi). Always have a travel insurance policy that covers trip interruptions.

Is it worth renting a scooter?

Only if you are an experienced rider. The roads are twisty and gravelly, and accidents are common. An ATV or small car is much safer for a couple.

Island Hopping the Cyclades as a Couple

Stick to a maximum of three islands over 10 to 14 days to avoid spending your entire trip on ferries. Use the high-speed catamaran ferries to save time and book your inter-island tickets at least 30 days in advance via Ferryhopper.

Choose your route. Pick a cluster like the Cyclades (Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Santorini) rather than trying to cross the Aegean. This minimizes travel time and maximizes time on the beach.
Book ferries in advance. Use Ferryhopper to compare schedules. Choose the 'High-Speed' catamarans to cut travel time between islands by half, though expect them to be more expensive and prone to cancellations if it's very windy.
Sort out ground transport. Rent an ATV or a small car the moment you land on each island. Buses are reliable but crowded, and you don't want to wait 45 minutes in the heat when you could be at a private cove.
Master the 'check-out' workflow. Most ferries depart mid-morning. Pack your bags the night before so you can spend your final morning getting one last coffee and swim before heading to the port 45 minutes before departure.

Are ferries reliable?: They are generally reliable, but they can be delayed or cancelled by high winds (Meltemi). Always have a travel insurance policy that covers trip interruptions.
Is it worth renting a scooter?: Only if you are an experienced rider. The roads are twisty and gravelly, and accidents are common. An ATV or small car is much safer for a couple.