Latest updates on Covid-19 and ferry travel in Italy

How to sail safely

Are there any Covid-19 restrictions in place for traveling by ferry in Italy? Do I need any documents to catch a ferry in Italy?

Find all latest updates for ferry travel and coronavirus in Italy. Learn about the new ferry travel measures and read our tips to sail with confidence!

View of the port of Naples

The port of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the background

Italy and Covid-19: how to travel by ferry

If you want to travel by ferry between different Italian regions or sail abroad, make sure you are aware of the Covid-19 restrictions in force in Italy.

Check out the latest updates for ferry travel within, to and from Italy:

Important: remember to always travel with your identity card or passport.

How to travel by ferry in Italy?

Following the end of the state of emergency in Italy, there are different ferry travel measures starting 1 June 2022.

At the moment, passengers traveling by ferry in Italy don't need to have a Covid-19 certificate, such as the Green Pass.

Tip: remember to comply with the rules on social distancing and the use of a protective mask on board.

What do I need to travel to Italy by ferry from abroad?

According to the current ministerial decree, passengers traveling to Italy by ferry from other countries don't need to present any Covid-19 certificate.

Useful info: for more information about traveling to Italy from abroad, you can consult the site of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Passenger walking on the ferry deck at sunset

Enjoying a walk on the ferry deck for some fresh air

Traveling by ferry from Italy to other countries

Passengers who want to take the ferry from Italy and reach the ports of Greece, Spain, France, Malta, Croatia, Albania, and Tunisia will have to comply with the regulations of each nation.

We suggest that you consult the official guidelines of each country to find out which documents are required to travel by ferry.

Tip: check our blog article about the latest Covid-19 updates and ferry trips between Italy and Greece!

Ferry travel and Covid-19: how to travel safely in Italy

A safe journey begins with prevention. By following some individual protection measures, you can travel without worries!

In Italy, the use of masks is mandatory on board all ferries, and it is always advisable to avoid crowded spaces, wash your hands thoroughly and refrain from touching your nose and mouth.

Before leaving, we suggest that you prepare all the documents required for your trip, have everything you need for your personal protection and familiarize yourself with the directives of the ferry company.

In case you are not feeling well or have any symptoms related to the coronavirus, we urge you to follow local health regulations and avoid unnecessary travel.

Good to know: starting 1 October 2022, the use of FFP2 face masks is not mandatory on board ferries traveling in Italy.

Suitcase with individual protective equipment

A perfect suitcase for traveling safely

Here are 9 useful tips for your ferry trip in Italy:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly and use a hand sanitizer immediately after touching common surfaces.
  2. Avoid sharing drinks and food.
  3. Avoid touching your face and always cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
  4. If you exhibit symptoms related to Covid-19 during the ferry crossing, inform a crew member the soonest.
  5. Postpone your trip if you experience any symptoms prior to departure.
  6. Book a cabin to share with your fellow travelers and avoid crowded spaces.
  7. If the weather conditions are good, try to spend most of the time on the ferry deck.
  8. Make sure you arrive at the port in advance as boarding procedures may take longer.
  9. Bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you.

What Covid-19 safety measures do ferries in Italy follow?

To ensure health safety standards and safe travel for all passengers, ferry companies in Italy follow a series of official protocols. More specifically:

  • Some ferry operators have introduced online check-in and e-tickets to minimize contact with crew and other passengers.
  • Most of the companies that operate on long routes have a doctor on board.
  • There are private cabins on most ferries and specific protocols have been introduced for sanitization.
  • Air ventilation systems are regularly sanitized and filtered air is not recirculated.
  • The crew is trained to ensure passenger assistance and compliance with prevention and containment measures.
  • To facilitate social distancing, special signs are on display regulating the movement of passengers on board.
  • Passengers can find hand sanitizer dispensers at various spots on board the ferry.

Passenger using the hand sanitizer dispenser on board

Hand sanitizer dispenser on board

Where to find more information on how to travel in Italy during Covid-19?

For more information on traveling and staying safe from Covid-19, have a look at our FAQ page, contact your ferry company and follow official travel warnings for Italy issued in your country of origin. You can also take a look at the directives of the World Health Organization or visit the official Italian tourism website.

Tip: we are closely monitoring all Covid-19 requirements for ferry travel to/from Italy every day, so don't forget to visit this page frequently for the latest ferry news!

#SailSafe