Ferries Sicily

Ferry companies often provide fixed discounts for specific passenger categories:

Infants & children

Most operators allow infants and toddlers up to 3 years old to travel for free, while discounts are available for children up to 11-12 years old.

Residents of Sicily

Native citizens and residents of Sicily can benefit from a special discounted rate throughout the year. Simply select the discount during the online booking process on Ferryhopper and enter your ID card or passport number. It is recommended to carry a residency document as proof of eligibility for the discount during your ferry journey.

Useful info: fixed discounts may vary slightly depending on the ferry company, so we recommend checking the specific conditions that apply to your trip.

Routes from mainland Italy

Ferries travel to the Sicilian ports of Palermo, Milazzo and Messina. Check out all available Italy - Sicily ferry connections.

Genoa to Palermo

The Genoa - Palermo route connects northern Italy's largest port with Sicily's capital. The journey takes approximately 19-20 hours with multiple weekly departures all year round.

Naples to Palermo

Naples - Palermo is one of Sicily's most popular ferry routes. The crossing takes 8.5 hours with daily departures all year round.

Civitavecchia (Rome) to Palermo

Connecting Rome's port with Sicily, the Civitavecchia (Rome) - Palermo route lasts approximately 13-14 hours with regular weekly departures all year round.

Salerno to Palermo

The Salerno - Palermo route takes approximately 9-10 hours, with services operating primarily during summer months.

Livorno to Palermo

Livorno port, in Tuscany, offers overnight ferries to Palermo taking approximately 19.5 hours. Livorno - Palermo ferries typically operate weekly during tourist season.

Villa San Giovanni to Messina

The Villa San Giovanni - Messina crossing is the shortest and busiest ferry connection to Sicily, taking just 20 minutes. This essential service operates continuously throughout the day with departures every 1-2 hours all year round.

Reggio Calabria to Messina

An alternative Strait of Messina crossing, the Reggio Calabria - Messina route takes 30-35 minutes with frequent daily departures all year round.

Vibo Valentia to Milazzo

This route connects Calabria's coast with Milazzo in northeastern Sicily. The Vibo Valentia - Milazzo crossing takes approximately 4.5 hours with seasonal services operating mainly between June and September.

Naples to Milazzo

Naples to Milazzo provides a direct connection to Sicily's Aeolian Islands gateway port. The overnight crossing takes approximately 16-18 hours with services operating mainly during the summer tourist season.

Salerno to Messina

The Salerno - Messina route takes approximately 9 hours. Services typically operate during summer months.

Routes from Sardinia

From the port of Cagilari, on the southern coast of Sardinia, you can travel by ferry to Palermo.

Cagliari to Palermo

The Cagliari - Palermo route connects Sardinia's capital with Sicily. Overnight crossings take approximately 12 hours with weekly departures throughout the year.

Routes from Malta

Valletta to Pozzallo

The route connects Malta with Pozzallo, in southeastern Sicily. This Malta - Sicily crossing takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes with regular year-round departures, operating multiple times per day.

Routes to Tunisia (North Africa)

The port of Palermo serves routes to the capital of Tunisia, Tunis.

Palermo to Tunis

The international Palermo - Tunis route takes approximately 10.5-11.5 hours. Services operate all year round with weekly departures.

Routes to the Aeolian Islands

Starting from the ports of Sicily, you can discover the Aeolian Islands.

Milazzo to Aeolian Islands

Milazzo serves as Sicily's primary gateway to the Aeolian archipelago, with year-round ferry and hydrofoil services to Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi, and Alicudi. Crossings range from 50 minutes to around 3 hours depending on destination, with multiple daily departures.

Messina to Aeolian Islands

Messina offers connections to the Aeolian Islands with services primarily to Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, and Panarea. Crossings take around 2-3 hours with daily year-round services.

Palermo to Aeolian Islands

Palermo provides direct connections to major Aeolian Islands including Lipari, Salina, Alicudi, Filicudi, Panarea, and Vulcano. Services typically operate during the summer with crossings taking 3-5 hours.

Routes to the Egadi Islands, Pantelleria and Pelagie Islands

Explore the Egadi Islands, Pantelleria, from the Sicilian ports of Trapani, Marsala and Porto Empedocle.

Trapani to Aegadian Islands (Egadi Islands)

Trapani serves as the gateway to the Egadi Islands (Favignana, Levanzo, Marettimo) with frequent daily hydrofoil and ferry services year-round. Crossings from Trapani to Favignana take just 30-40 minutes by hydrofoil or 50 minutes by standard ferry, with multiple daily departures.

Trapani to Pantelleria

The Trapani - Pantelleria route takes 2.5 hours by high-speed ferry or 5-6 hours by conventional ferry, with year-round services.

Marsala to Egadi Islands

Marsala offers seasonal ferry connections to Favignana and Marettimo all year round, and to Levanzo seasonally. The Marsala - Favignana crossing takes approximately 30-40 minutes, the Marsala - Marettimo around 1-1.5 hours, and the Marsala - Levanzo around 50 minutes.

Porto Empedocle to Pelagie Islands

Porto Empedocle on Sicily's southern coast provides ferry connections to Lampedusa and Linosa in the Pelagie Islands. These crossings take around 4 hours by high-speed ferry and 9-10 hours by conventional ferry, operating all year round with reduced winter frequency. Find out more about Porto Empedocle - Lampedusa and Porto Empedocle - Linosa routes.

• Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV): the company provides connections from Genoa, Naples, and Civitavecchia to Palermo, as well as the international Tunis - Palermo route. It operates with modern conventional ferries all year round.
• Grimaldi Lines: it operates year-round ferry services from Naples and Livorno to Palermo, as well as the international Tunis - Palermo route, with modern cruise-style vessels.
• Liberty Lines: it offers high-speed hydrofoil services across the Strait of Messina and to Sicily's smaller islands. It operates daily departures between Messina and Reggio Calabria, as well as connections to the Aeolian, Egadi, and Pelagie Islands.
• Caronte & Tourist: it operates the busiest ferry routes across the Strait of Messina, from Villa San Giovanni and Reggio Calabria to Messina. It also operates the Salerno - Messina route. In collaboration with its subsidiary Siremar, the company provides connections to Sicily's smaller islands including the Aeolian, Egadi, and Pelagie Islands.
• Virtu Ferries: it operates high-speed catamaran services connecting Malta with Sicily. The company provides regular year-round crossings from Valletta to Pozzallo.

How much luggage can I take on the ferry to Sicily?

Luggage allowances on ferries to Sicily vary by operator and ticket type. For foot passengers on major routes from the mainland, such as Naples - Palermo or Genoa - Palermo, most companies allow 2 pieces of checked luggage plus 1 small carry-on bag or backpack free of charge. Additional baggage may incur extra fees.

On shorter crossings, such as the ones across the Strait of Messina, you can normally carry up to 1 piece of luggage (usually plus 1 small bag) free of charge.

For vehicle passengers on ferries to Sicily, there are normally no luggage limits as you can store bags, suitcases, and equipment directly in your car, van, or motorhome.

Ferry ride duration to Sicily varies significantly depending on your departure point and destination.

The shortest crossings in the Strait of Messina last 20 minutes from Villa San Giovanni or 30 minutes from Reggio Calabria to Messina.

The duration of longer crossings from major mainland Italian ports depends on the port of arrival, and can range from 9 to 20 hours.

From Sardinia to Sicily, the Cagliari - Palermo route takes 12 hours. The international route between Tunis and Palermo takes approximately 10 hours or more, while crossings from Sicily to Malta take less than 2 hours.

Which is the fastest route to Sicily?

The shortest ferry to Sicily from mainland Italy takes only 20 minutes, connecting Villa San Giovanni to Messina.

What is the cheapest ferry to Sicily?

The cheapest ferries to Sicily depart from the ports of Calabria. Tickets for the Villa San Giovanni to Messina route start as low as €2.50, while ferries from Reggio Calabria cost around €4.

Which ferry route is best for northern or southern Sicily?

For northern Sicily (Palermo, Cefalù, Aeolian Islands), the best routes are the ones to Palermo from Naples, Genoa, Civitavecchia (Rome), and other major ports. Palermo provides access to northern Sicily's highlights. If you are targeting the Aeolian Islands, consider a crossing to Messina followed by a short drive to Milazzo, or the direct Naples - Milazzo route.

For southern Sicily (Agrigento, Valley of the Temples, Porto Empedocle), routes arriving in Palermo or Messina work well, and then it’s a 2-3 hour drive.

For eastern Sicily, the Villa San Giovanni or Reggio Calabria to Messina crossings are the most convenient, as you arrive directly on Sicily's northeastern coast. From Messina, it's just 45 minutes to Taormina, 90 minutes to Catania, and 2 hours to Syracuse.

For western Sicily (Trapani, Marsala, Egadi Islands, Pantelleria), Palermo is the closest major ferry port, with Trapani located about 90 minutes away by car.

You can take your car, motorcycle, or bicycle on all major ferry routes to Sicily, as the vessels normally have car decks.

Vehicle transportation is normally not possible on fast ferries from Sicily to the Aeolian and the Egadi Islands.

Tip: the best way to get around the island is by car. While some parts of Sicily are accessible by train and bus, traveling by car gives you more freedom and comfort to discover Sicily’s hidden gems.

How much does it cost to bring my car to Sicily?

On shorter routes (Strait of Messina), rar tickets for Sicily ferries start at approximately €40 and can go up to €100, depending on the size of the vehicle and the company. For longer mainland routes such as Naples to Palermo or Genoa to Palermo, car fares start at around €80 and can go up to over €300, depending on vehicle size and the route.

Motorcycle tickets normally start at €15-30 for shorter crossings, and €40-80 or more (depending on the size) for longer routes from Genoa, Naples, etc.

Note that during the summer season (July-August), prices are normally higher than the rest of the year.

Can I take a campervan or motorhome on the ferry to Sicily?

Yes, all major ferry operators serving Sicily accommodate campervans and motorhomes. In fact, the island offers numerous campsites and designated motorhome areas (sosta camper).

Motorhome transport costs normally depend on vehicle length. For short Strait of Messina crossings, expect to pay €80-150 for small campervans (under 6 m) and €120-200+ for larger motorhomes, depending on length. For longer routes like Naples to Palermo or Genoa to Palermo, costs range from €150-300 for smaller campervans, and from €300-600+ for larger motorhomes (7-9 m).

Ferries to Sicily offer a wide range of facilities designed to ensure a comfortable and relaxing journey. Amenities usually vary by company, route, and vessel.

Are there cabins on the ferries to Sicily?

Yes, ferries to Sicily offer various types of cabins to suit different needs and budgets, particularly on longer routes. You can choose from inside cabins (without windows), outside cabins offering sea views (with portholes or windows), pet-friendly cabins, and designated cabins for passengers with disabilities. You can also find luxury cabins and suites with additional amenities such as TVs, double beds, and superior furnishings.

Most cabins accommodate 1-4 passengers and feature private bathrooms with showers and toilets, air conditioning, storage space, and more. Cabin availability varies by vessel and operator; Grandi Navi Veloci and Grimaldi Lines offer the widest selection on routes from Naples, Genoa, and Civitavecchia to Palermo.

How much is a cabin on the ferry to Sicily?

Cabin prices to Sicily normally vary depending on the route, company, and cabin type. On shorter connections, inside cabins usually start at around €100 or more, and outside cabins at €120 or more.

On longer crossings, such as Genora - Palermo, cabins usually start at around €165 and can go over €300, depending on the cabin type and the season.

Fares for luxury cabins usually start at over €180.

What type of seats can you book on ferries to Sicily?

Most vessels have numbered airplane-style reclining seats in designated air-conditioned lounges, a comfortable option to enjoy a relaxed trip. These seats usually range between €45-68, depending on the company, the route, and the season.

On all ferries, there is also deck-passage accommodation, which allows passengers to find their own space in public lounges, bars, or outdoor deck areas without a specific assigned seat. On short Strait of Messina routes, these seats start at just €2.50, while on longer routes from the mainland, they range between €30 and €70.

Are the ferries to Sicily accessible?

Yes, ferries to Sicily are equipped to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, though accessibility features vary by vessel and operator. Most modern ferries offer

• Wheelchair-accessible cabins with adapted bathrooms
• Elevators between decks
• Ramps for boarding and disembarking
• Designated wheelchair spaces in seating areas
• Accessible public toilets

Can you take pets on the ferry to Sicily?

Yes, pets are welcome on most ferries to Sicily. You just need to add your pet to the booking and pay a small fee. Dogs must be kept on a leash and muzzled when in public areas, and you'll need to present valid documentation including vaccination records and EU pet passport.

Where do pets stay on the ferry to Sicily?

There are several pet accommodation options on ferries to Sicily. On longer routes, ferries normally offer pet-friendly cabins where your pet can stay with you during the crossing. Some vessels also feature air-conditioned, supervised kennels. Additionally, outdoor pet areas on deck allow your dog to walk and get fresh air during the crossing.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries to Sicily?

Yes, most ferries to Sicily offer Wi-Fi service on board, though availability and pricing may vary by operator and vessel. Companies such as Grandi Navi Veloci and Grimaldi Lines provide Wi-Fi access in common areas, restaurants, bars, and sometimes in cabins, normally as a paid service.

Food and entertainment

Ferries to Sicily offer various entertainment options to make your trip enjoyable. Larger ferries normally feature facilities, such as game rooms, children's play areas, activities for families, cinema rooms, television lounges, and spacious outdoor sun decks with loungers.

Moreover, most ferries have bars and lounges where passengers can enjoy drinks with a sea view. On board, you can also find restaurants and cafes that provide dining experiences featuring Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine, while on larger ferries there are usually à la carte restaurants and self-service cafeterias as well.

What documents do I need for the ferry trip to Sicily?

In most cases, you will need to show your tickets and a valid ID document (national ID or passport) for every passenger when entering the port area and boarding the ferry. Bear in mind that you will also need a proof for discounts (e.g., resident fares), if applicable.

For non‑EU passengers, a valid passport and, depending on their nationality, possibly a visa to enter France/Schengen are necessary.

How to book ferry tickets

You can book your ferry tickets to Sicily on Ferryhopper in just a few steps. Compare schedules and fares, and find the crossing that suits you best.

Find out more about the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea on our travel guide for Sicily.

Here are some useful tips to enjoy a smooth trip to Sicily:

Best time to book

If you're planning to travel in the summer, we highly recommend booking well in advance, preferably 4-5 months ahead. This will give you access to a broader selection of routes and allow you to take advantage of early booking discounts. Ferry operators often launch special offers for summer travel as early as November, but these deals are often available only for a limited time.

For additional savings, consider traveling during the week, as prices tend to be higher on weekends and the days leading up to holidays.

If you prefer to travel in the off-season, there's no need to book months in advance since tickets rarely sell out quickly. In autumn, winter, and spring, prices are generally lower, and you may even come across some great last-minute deals.

Keep in mind that on Ferryhopper, you can easily compare prices for all ferries to/from Sicily and choose the itinerary that best fits your travel plans.

Arrival

For your ferry trip to Sicily, we recommend you arrive at least 1 hour before departure if you are traveling as a foot passenger and at least 90 minutes in advance if you are transporting a vehicle.

How many ports does Sicily have?

Sicily has 5 main ferry ports: Palermo, Messina, Milazzo, Trapani, and Pozzallo. Additionally, 2 smaller ports, Porto Empedocle and Marsala, serve specific island routes and seasonal connections.

Where are Sicily's ports?

In northwestern Sicily, you’ll find the ports of Palermo and Trapani. Palermo, one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean, offers year-round connections from Naples, Salerno, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Genoa. During the summer, it’s also possible to reach the Aeolian Islands. The port of Trapani, on the other hand, serves as the main departure point for the Egadi Islands and Pantelleria.

The port of Marsala provides daily connections from Sicily’s western coast to the Egadi archipelago, particularly Favignana. In northeastern Sicily, the port of Messina is connected to Calabria, Salerno and the Aeolian Islands, while Milazzo offers routes to Palermo and Naples as well.

On the southeastern coast, Pozzallo is another important port. Just 90 km from Malta, it serves as the primary Sicilian gateway to the island. Lastly, Porto Empedocle connects southwestern Sicily to the Pelagie Islands (Lampedusa and Linosa).

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Sicily, 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.