Ferries Marseille

Most ferry companies with routes to and from Marseille offer fixed discounts for children aged 2-11/12 years old and senior passengers. Infants and toddlers up to 1 or 2 years old usually travel free of charge.

Note: discounts may differ among ferry operators.

When booking your ticket on Ferryhopper, simply select the route that suits you, choose the discount you are eligible for, and it will be applied to your final ticket price.

As one of the main ports on the Mediterranean, Marseille offers ferry connections to Corsica and North Africa. Here are the main ones:

Ajaccio - Marseille

The Ajaccio - Marseille ferry route is operated by La Méridionale and is active year-round, with up to 7 weekly departures. The crossing takes around 12-13 hours and usually take place at night. Ticket prices start at around €40. 

Porto Vecchio - Marseille

The Porto Vecchio - Marseille ferry is available all year round, with 1-3 weekly departures. The journey takes around 15 hours, with ticket prices starting from approximately €45. This route is also served by La Méridionale.

Tangier - Marseille

The Tangier - Marseille ferry route operates all year round, with 1-2 crossings per week. It is a longer crossing across the western Mediterranean, with a ferry trip lasting around 38-46 hours. Ticket prices start at around €50. The route is operated by La Méridionale.

La Méridionale operates routes to Marseille from Ajaccio, Porto Vecchio and Tangier.

How much luggage can I bring on the ferry?

With La Méridionale, you can bring 2 pieces of luggage and 1 backpack on board free of charge. If you are travelling with a vehicle, there are no luggage restrictions provided your belongings remain inside the vehicle.

Please note that luggage policies may vary depending on the ticket type, route and travel period. We therefore recommend checking the specific details during the booking process on Ferryhopper.

The duration can vary depending on the route and the type of vessel:

• The journey from Ajaccio to Marseille takes around 12-13 hours, with overnight departures usually taking place.
• The ferry trip from Porto Vecchio to Marseille takes around 15 hours.
• The journey from Tangier Med to Marseille takes around 38-46 hours.

Please note that these travel times are approximate and may vary depending on weather conditions, the season and the type of vessel. We therefore recommend checking the latest schedules when booking on Ferryhopper.

Choosing the best ferry route to Marseille depends mainly on your departure point, budget and how much time you can spare.

What is the fastest route to Marseille?

The fastest ferry route is between Ajaccio and Marseille, with a journey time of around 12-13 hours.

What is the cheapest route to Marseille?

The most affordable routes are between Corsica and Marseille. Tickets for crossings from Ajaccio start at around €40.

Please note that fares may vary depending on the season, ferry company and type of accomodation.

What other factors should I consider?

• Travel time and price: Corsican routes offer the best balance between duration and cost. The crossing from Tangier takes longer and is more expensive, but it is the only direct route from North Africa.
• Departure times: Some routes, especially overnight ones, involve long journeys with evening departures and morning arrivals. Check timetables carefully to ensure a smooth journey.

Can I take my vehicle on a ferry to Marseille?

Yes, all vessels departing for Marseille allow vehicles such as cars, motorbikes, camper vans and bicycles to be transported.

How much does it cost to bring a vehicle on a ferry to Marseille?

Fares vary depending on the route chosen, the travel period and the size of the vehicle, but prices usually start from:

• €40 for a motorbike
• €55 for a small car
• €120 for a camper van

Note that these are indicative prices for the shortest route.

Ferries to and from Marseille offer a wide range of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

The vessels have spacious, air-conditioned indoor lounges and outdoor decks where you can relax and enjoy the crossing. Some vessels also have an outdoor swimming pool.

On board, you will also find:

• Restaurants (à la carte and self-service)
• Bars and cafés
• Play areas to keep children entertained
• Duty-free shops for shopping during the journey
• Wi-Fi connection (available for a small fee)

The fleet also includes large garages equipped for transporting cars, motorbikes, and camper vans.

Can I book a numbered seat?

Yes, you can choose from different accommodation options on board. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can book a deck passage ticket or choose reserved seats with comfortable reclining chairs.

Do Marseille ferries have cabins?

Yes, all ferries operating to Marseille are equipped with cabins. There are different types to choose from, including interior cabins, sea-view cabins, and pet-friendly options.

Can I travel first class on Marseille ferries?

Yes, on some ferries you can book a suite, which is a more spacious, fully-equipped private cabin. We recommend checking availability during the booking process on Ferryhopper, as this varies depending on the vessel.

What services are available for passengers with disabilities?

La Méridionale places great emphasis on providing a comfortable and accessible travel experience for passengers with reduced mobility.

On board, you will find lifts and access ramps. Reserved seating is available in the common areas, while those needing more privacy and comfort can make use of the designated cabins and accessible toilets.

The onboard staff are also trained to assist PRM (passengers with reduced mobility) throughout the journey.

Can I travel with my pet?

Yes, pets are welcome on all ferries to and from Marseille! On board they can either stay in designated pet-friendly areas or in air-conditioned, supervised kennels.

Small pets must remain in their carrier for the entire crossing. Larger dogs must always be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle.

Before departure, please ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents and supplies for your pet.

Travel documents for your ferry trip

When travelling on ferry routes to/from Marseille, you must carry the following:

• Your boarding ticket 
• A valid passport 

How to book your ferry to Marseille online

On Ferryhopper, you can book your tickets to Marseille in just a few clicks:

1. Enter your departure and destination ports and travel dates.
2. Add the number of passengers and any pets.
3. Compare routes and ticket prices.
4. Complete your booking securely online

Once your booking is complete, you will receive confirmation directly in your inbox.

With Ferryhopper, you can also modify your booking online, receive travel updates and contact customer support.

What is the boarding and check-in procedure?

We recommend arriving at your departure port at least 1 hour in advance, especially if you are traveling with vehicle.

For crossings operated by La Méridionale, you must collect your paper ticket before your departure by presenting your online booking confirmation.

Boarding usually starts around 30 minutes before departure, with instructions provided by port staff.

Whether you're starting from or returning to Marseille, the French city offers far more than a stopover, as it brims with energy, diversity, and Mediterranean charm. With 57 km of coastline and over 300 sunny days a year, Marseille feels both seaside and urban. 

From its iconic Old Port (Vieux‑Port) to the historic fishing market that still thrives there, the waterfront pulses with local life and maritime heritage. Just beyond, you’ll find cultural landmarks like the Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) and Villa Méditerranée perched at the port entrance. To discover Marseille’s soul, stroll through the winding streets of Quartier du Panier or head to the bustling Noailles district, where you’ll find a multicultural market with spices, produce, and street-foodstalls.

Although ferry tickets to Marseille are available all year round, advance booking is highly recommended, particularly between June and September. Some routes are very popular in the summer and seats can sell out quickly.

If you are planning to travel during these months, we recommend booking your tickets at least 1-2 months before your departure, especially if you wish to bring a vehicle or reserve a cabin.

During the low season, it is often possible to book closer to your departure. However, we still recommend checking availability a few days or weeks in advance for better planning.

Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends and public holidays. These days also tend to offer more flexibility in terms of schedules and fares, so if possible, we recommend travelling during the week.

Additional tips

• Book early: As mentioned, spaces on ferries to Marseille, especially those departing from North Africa, can fill up quickly. Booking in advance allows you to choose more convenient cabins, seats, and departure times.
• Consider travelling in the low season. Marseille is beautiful all year round. Visiting in quieter months such as October or March means you can enjoy museums, seaside walks and historic neighbourhoods in greater peace and comfort.
• Bring your car: If you want to explore Marseille and the surrounding area at your own pace, travelling with your own vehicle is a great option. Make sure you add a car when booking your ferry ticket.
• Book a cabin: Some crossings, such as those from Tangier, can last over 30 hours. For a more comfortable journey, consider booking a cabin for rest and privacy.
• Check your travel documents: If you are departing from Morocco, remember that you will need a valid passport with at least 90 days of remaining validity.
• Choose appropriate clothing: departure ports can be very hot in summer. However, onboard and in Marseille, temperatures can drop, especially in the evening or during the crossing. Bring light clothing as well as a jacket or jumper.

The Port of Marseille (Port de Marseille Fos) is one of the largest and busiest ports in the Mediterranean. The passenger ferry terminal is mainly located in the Joliette/Arenc area (Gate 4).

Where is the port of Marseille located?

Marseille port is situated in the Joliette district, in the northern part of the Vieux-Port, around 3 km from the city centre.

You will find it along Boulevard des Dames, overlooking the harbour basin, close to the Euroméditerranée district and the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure (La Major).

How to reach the port of Marseille

• By car: The port is well connected to the motorway network and can be accessed via the A7 (from Lyon and Paris) and the A50 (from Toulon and the French Riviera). Paid short- and long-term parking is available near the terminal.
• By metro: the closest station is Joliette (Line 2), which is about a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal. This is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the port from the city centre.
• By bus: Several city bus lines serve the port area. Line 35 connects Vieux-Port directly with the port area.
• By train: Gare de Marseille Saint-Charles, the city’s main train station, is about a 15-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
• By plane: Marseille Provence Airport (Marignane) is located about 25 km from the port. The ferry terminal can be reached by airport shuttle bus or taxi.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Marseille, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.