During the 1980s, the Hellenic Navy decided to build the Athenian Trireme which began on May 5, 1985 at shipyard of D. Tzakakos in Keratsini by Greek ship carpenters and ended in June 1987. On August 26, 1987 she was baptized “OLYMPIAS”.

The designs of Trireme were based on writings, illustrations, and findings from the New Residents of Zea. The studies and persistence of the British Historian John Morrison in collaboration with the British shipbuilder John Coates, in June 1987 became a reality. A replica of an ancient Athenian Τrireme sailed for the first time in the waters of Perama.

For the construction, Iroko wood was used for the keel, Oregon Pine for the casing and Virginia Oak for the Frame. Mediterranean wood was not used and the main reason was the longevity of the ship. 20,000 wooden wedges, 17,000 hand-made brass nails were used and the brass cast piston cap weighs 200 kg.

The main features of the vessel are the bow piston (powerful ramming weapon), the soldiers on the deck, her speed, maneuverability and the small draft that makes her sail in shallow waters safely, with her special characteristics being her length of 36.90m. , width 5,50m, draught 1.25m. and a displacement of 70 tons.

The Trireme ‘’Olympias’’, a unique exhibit worldwide, from the day of her launch is staffed by Military personnel of the Hellenic Navy, men and women. She has been rowed by crews of students of military production schools, as well as British crews. The vessel initially traveled as part of experimental archaeology to confirm her helical elements, immediately after her construction. She has also circumnavigated the Argosaronic Gulf and crossed the Isthmus of Corinth. She has twice carried the Olympic Flame and participated in the celebrations of 2500 years of democracy in Great Britain on the River Thames. At the same time she has taken part in events all over Greece.

In recent years she has been docked at the Maritime Tradition Park and can be visited by the public. She participates in the celebration of the Battle of Salamis every September, in the celebrations (Sea Days) in Piraeus and makes trips with citizens and their families without much rowing experience, for acquaintance with the boat and her history.