Ferries Tunisia

When booking your ferry tickets to Tunisia, you can take advantage of standard passenger discounts offered by major ferry operators like CTN (Compagnie Tunisienne de Navigation), GNV (Grimaldi Navi Veloci), Corsica Linea, and Grimaldi Lines:

• Infants and toddlers (under 2-3 years old): travel for free or at a nominal fee (usually without an assigned seat or bed) across all major operators.
• Children (aged 2 to 11/15 depending on the operator): discounted fares ranging from 20% to 50% off the standard adult passenger ticket price.
• Round-trip bookings: reductions (often up to 20%) when booking your return ticket simultaneously with the same operator (such as Grimaldi Lines or GNV).

Tunisia is directly connected by ferry to major ports in France and Italy. Most international ferry connections dock at the main port of Tunis (La Goulette), while direct crossings to Zarzis in southern Tunisia are also available, particularly during the high summer season.

Ferries from Italy to Tunisia

• Genoa - Tunis: this major route runs year-round with up to 7 weekly sailings provided by GNV (Grimaldi Navi Veloci) and CTN (Compagnie Tunisienne de Navigation). The journey duration ranges from 24 to 32 hours depending on the vessel and operator. Standard passenger fares start at around €100.
• Civitavecchia - Tunis: connecting the Rome area to Tunis, this route operates 2 times per week year-round, operated by GNV and Grimaldi Lines. The crossing lasts between 18.5 and 28 hours, with one-way passenger tickets starting at €50.
• Palermo - Tunis: serving as the shortest ferry link between Europe and Tunisia, this route operates 1 to 3 times per week year-round via GNV and Grimaldi Lines. Crossing time takes 10 to 12.5 hours, with ticket prices starting at €50.
• Salerno - Tunis: located in southern Italy, Salerno provides 2 to 3 weekly sailings to Tunis operated by Grimaldi Lines. The journey takes around 18 to 25 hours, with budget fares starting from around €45 depending on seasonality.

Ferries from France to Tunisia

• Marseille - Tunis: the primary ferry link between France and Tunisia operates year-round with up to 4 weekly sailings, operated by CTN and Corsica Linea. The average travel time is between 20 and 23 hours, with foot-passenger prices starting at around €150.
• Marseille - Zarzis: a popular seasonal option for travelers heading directly to southern Tunisia, operated by CTN during peak summer months. The crossing duration is approximately 37 hours and tickets start from about €150.

Several major ferry operators run direct routes between Europe and Tunisia: CTN (Compagnie Tunisienne de Navigation), GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci), Corsica Linea and Grimaldi Lines.

Ferry Companies Serving Tunisia

• CTN: the national ferry operator of Tunisia, running primary year-round routes from Marseille and Genoa to Tunis, alongside seasonal links to Zarzis.
• GNV: connects Genoa, Civitavecchia and Palermo with Tunis. The Civitavecchia service might include a stop in Palermo.
• Corsica Linea: provides regular crossings between Marseille and Tunis.
• Grimaldi Lines: connects Civitavecchia, Salerno and Palermo with Tunis.

Luggage Policies

Each operator has specific luggage allowance rules for foot passengers and vehicle travelers:

• CTN: foot passengers departing from Genoa may bring up to 2 suitcases, with no specified weight limit. At Marseille, passengers over 10 may bring 2 pieces of luggage plus a backpack or handbag; children under 10 may bring a child-sized backpack or bag. Passengers must carry everything independently in one boarding trip, and additional luggage is refused at Marseille.
• GNV: foot passengers can bring up to 2 pieces of personal luggage free of charge. There are no strict weight limits, provided you can safely carry your own luggage onto the vessel in a single trip. On Tunisia routes, additional personal luggage can be carried in the ship’s hold in a container for €20 per piece.
• Corsica Linea: on Tunisia routes, foot passengers over 10 may bring 2 pieces of luggage plus a backpack or handbag. Children under 10 may bring a child-sized backpack or bag they can carry themselves. All luggage must be carried independently in one boarding trip; additional bags are refused. You keep your luggage with you or in your cabin, as there is no general luggage-storage facility.
• Grimaldi Lines: each passenger may bring 1 bag measuring up to 56 × 45 × 25 cm, plus 1 small bag or backpack, free of charge, whether travelling in a seat, with deck passage or in a cabin. Additional bags cost €10 each at boarding, or €7 each when purchased in advance through Grimaldi’s specified booking channels for Tunisia routes. Additional luggage not carried in a vehicle is stored in the ship’s luggage compartment and cannot be accessed during the crossing.

The ferry ride duration to Tunisia varies depending on your departure port and operator:

• From Italy: the shortest ferry route is from Palermo to Tunis, taking 10 to 12.5 hours. Longer journeys from northern Italy, such as Genoa to Tunis, take between 24 to 32 hours.
• From France: sailings from Marseille to Tunis last 20 to 23 hours, whereas the seasonal Marseille - Zarzis route takes around 37 hours.

Which is the fastest route to Tunisia?

The fastest ferry route to Tunisia is from Palermo (Sicily) to Tunis (La Goulette), with journey times starting at less than 10 hours. This route is operated by both GNV and Grimaldi Lines.

What is the cheapest ferry route to Tunisia?

The cheapest ferry route to Tunisia is generally the Salerno - Tunis, with standard passenger ticket prices starting from €45. Additionally, the Palermo - Tunis route offers fares starting from €50.

Yes, you can bring vehicles on all passenger ferries operating between Europe and Tunisia, as modern vessels operated by CTN, GNV, Corsica Linea, and Grimaldi Lines feature spacious garage decks. You can travel with standard cars, motorcycles, campervans, motorhomes, minibuses, and trailers.

How much does it cost to bring my car?

The cost to transport a standard car to Tunisia varies depending on the route length, operator, season, and time of booking:

• From Italy: one-way car tickets generally range from €30 to €130.
• From France: transporting a car on long-distance crossings usually starts around €200.

Can I take my campervan on the ferry?

Yes, you can easily take your campervan, motorhome, or caravan on ferries to Tunisia. Since campervans occupy more space, ticket prices are higher than standard passenger cars and depend on the length and height of the vehicle. They usually start at around €100.

It is strongly advised to book early if traveling with a campervan or large motorhome, as garage space for oversized vehicles fills up rapidly, especially on popular summer crossings to Tunis and Zarzis.

Ferries to Tunisia offer accommodation, dining and leisure facilities for longer crossings. The services available depend on the operator and vessel, so check your selected sailing when booking.

Are there cabins on the ferries?

Yes, cabins are available on the conventional passenger ferries serving Tunisia with CTN, GNV, Corsica Linea, and Grimaldi Lines. Depending on the vessel, options include inside cabins, sea-view cabins and suites.

For example, GNV’s standard inside and sea-view cabins accommodate up to 4 passengers and include air conditioning and a private bathroom with a shower. Adapted cabins are also available on selected vessels and should be requested in advance.

How much is a cabin?

Cabin prices depend on your route, travel date, operator, cabin category and number of passengers but generally start at around €120. Select your departure and passenger details when booking to compare the total fare for a cabin with the available seating options.

What types of seats can you book?

Depending on your sailing, you can choose deck passage, a reclining seat or cabin accommodation.

GNV offers reserved Pullman seats in air-conditioned lounges, including on its Tunisia routes. Deck passage is another option, but it does not include a private cabin or reserved reclining seat.

Are the ferries accessible?

Accessible accommodation and passenger assistance are available, although facilities vary by vessel.

CTN lists lifts and adapted cabins on the Tanit and Carthage. GNV also offers adapted cabins. Confirm the facilities you need on your selected ship, including cabin access and bathroom arrangements.

Request assistance when booking. Corsica Linea requires at least 48 hours’ notice, while GNV recommends contacting it 5 days ahead and no later than 48 working hours before departure.

Can you take pets on the ferry to Tunisia?

Yes, the main operators accept pets, subject to their booking rules, permitted animals and the documentation required for your journey. Add your pet to your reservation and confirm its accommodation before travelling.

Where do pets stay?

Pet accommodation differs between operators:

• GNV: dogs and cats travel in a booked pet-friendly cabin or the ship’s kennels. Pet-friendly cabins have limited availability and accommodate a maximum of 2 pets.
• Corsica Linea: pets travel in ventilated kennels and are not permitted in passenger cabins, lounges, restaurants or passenger decks. Small animals must remain in a suitable carrier placed in the designated kennel box. Assistance dogs follow separate rules.
• Grimaldi Lines: pets can travel in onboard kennels or with you in a cabin after purchasing the Pet in Cabin service. Dogs and cats may enter seating lounges in an appropriate carrier.
• CTN: pets are accepted on the Tanit and Carthage.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

Wi-Fi is available on many ferries serving Tunisia, but packages, coverage and charges differ:

• GNV offers paid Sea-Fi packages, which can be purchased in advance on Tunisia routes.
• Corsica Linea offers onboard Wi-Fi packages.
• Grimaldi Lines advertises paid satellite Wi-Fi.
• CTN lists Wi-Fi on the Tanit and Carthage, but check onboard for the available service and charges.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Yes, facilities vary by ship and can include:

• Restaurants, self-service dining and cafés: GNV provides certified halal food options on Tunisia routes, while Corsica Linea also advertises halal dining on its Tunisia services.
• Prayer facilities: GNV provides Islamic prayer rooms on ships serving Tunisia, while CTN lists a mosque on the Tanit and Carthage.
• Shopping, television and outdoor decks: Corsica Linea’s Tunisia services offer television, children’s spaces and duty-free shops on most vessels, with shop openings dependent on the ship and season.
• Pools and games areas: CTN lists swimming pools, children’s play areas and electronic games rooms on the Tanit and Carthage. Availability during your crossing depends on onboard operating conditions.

How to book ferry tickets to Tunisia

Booking ferry tickets to Tunisia on Ferryhopper is quick and easy. You can compare real-time ferry itineraries, ticket prices, schedules, and operators in just a few clicks.

Simply select your origin port, destination, travel dates, and the number of passengers or vehicles. You can compare options from CTN, GNV, Corsica Linea, and Grimaldi Lines on a single page to find the best route for your budget and schedule. Once you complete your reservation, your e-tickets will be delivered directly to your email and stored in the Ferryhopper App.

Do I need a physical ticket or is an e-ticket accepted?

Most ferry operators serving Tunisia offer e-tickets or web check-in, allowing you to board with a digital boarding pass on your mobile device. However, check-in requirements vary by company:

• GNV & Grimaldi Lines: web check-in is available, and e-boarding passes can be presented on your phone at the port.
• CTN & Corsica Linea: e-confirmation vouchers are accepted, but you may need to present your booking confirmation at the port ticket office or check-in desk to collect physical boarding cards before embarking.

Located on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, Tunisia is a vibrant destination known for its rich history, ancient ruins, and stunning coastline. The capital city, Tunis, combines a historic UNESCO-listed Medina with modern, bustling neighborhoods, serving as the cultural and commercial heart of the country. For more details on exploring the capital, check out our dedicated Tunis travel guide. 

Best time to book

Ferries to Tunisia operate year-round, but availability and fares vary depending on the season. The most popular travel periods are during the summer and around religious festivities, such as Ramadan or Eid al-Fitr, or school breaks.

If you're traveling during these times, we recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance. The same applies if you plan to book a cabin or travel with a vehicle as spaces for cars and motorbikes tend to sell out quickly.

During the low season, from October to February, it's easier to find last-minute deals and cheaper tickets. You'll usually just need to book your ferry a couple of weeks before your departure for Tunis. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to double-check that there's availability ahead of time if you have specific requirements or a tight schedule.

Port arrival time

Because ferries to Tunisia cross international borders, you must clear customs, passport control, and security procedures before embarkation:

• Foot passengers: arrive at the terminal at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
• Passengers with vehicles: arrive at least 2 to 3 hours in advance to allow sufficient time for vehicle inspection and garage staging.

Other ferry-related tip

Planning a ferry trip to Tunisia? Here are some tips to help you enjoy a hassle-free crossing:

• Since you're traveling internationally, we recommend arriving at least 1.5 hours before your departure. Allow extra time for customs checks if you're traveling with a vehicle.
• Make sure to check what travel documents you need to enter Tunisia by ferry. Most European passengers will need a passport valid for at least 90 days. 
• There can be a significant temperature difference between your departure and arrival ports. Dress in layers and bring a change of clothes with you.
•  If you're traveling with your vehicle, make sure to check Tunisia's traffic rules as some customs procedures may be required when entering the country.

Tunisia has 2 main ports for international passenger ferries: Tunis (La Goulette) in the north and Zarzis in the south. La Goulette is the main gateway for crossings from France and Italy, including Sicily, while Zarzis offers a more limited choice of departures.

How many passenger ferry ports does Tunisia have?

The 2 main ports serving international passenger crossings are:

• Tunis (La Goulette): Tunisia’s main passenger ferry port, with year-round connections to Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia, Palermo, and Salerno. Available departures vary by route and operator.
• Zarzis: located in southeastern Tunisia near Djerba, this port offers limited ferry crossings from Marseille, operated by CTN. Services are concentrated in the summer, although additional departures may be scheduled at other times of year. Check availability for your travel dates.

Where is Tunisia’s main passenger port?

Tunisia’s main passenger ferry port is La Goulette, approximately 12 km east of central Tunis, between Lake Tunis and the Gulf of Tunis. Ferries serving Tunis use this port, where you’ll find the Gare Maritime passenger terminal.

How to get to Tunisia’s main port

You can reach La Goulette from central Tunis by car, taxi or public transport:

• By car: follow the road across Lake Tunis towards La Goulette, continuing from Avenue Habib Bourguiba. Once in La Goulette, follow signs for Gare Maritime.
• By taxi: you can take a taxi from central Tunis or Tunis-Carthage Airport to the passenger terminal. Allow extra time for traffic and follow your ferry company’s arrival instructions.
• By train (TGM): the TGM suburban railway connects central Tunis with La Goulette. Check current services and the most convenient stop for your ferry terminal before travelling, and allow time to reach the passenger entrance.

How to get to the port of Zarzis

You can reach the port of Zarzis by car or taxi from Zarzis town and the surrounding area. Confirm the passenger terminal entrance with CTN before travelling.

If you’re coming from Djerba or Djerba–Zarzis Airport, you can arrange a taxi or private transfer to Zarzis. When booking, specify the ferry passenger terminal as your destination.

Allow extra time for traffic and port formalities, and follow the arrival instructions on your ferry booking.

Ferry route map

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