Naples to Palermo Ferry

Is Palermo a day trip from Naples?

No, the ferry ride is too long for a day trip; a longer stay is recommended.

Which islands can you get to from Palermo?

From Palermo, you can easily reach the Aeolian Islands by ferry, known for their volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Another popular choice is Ustica, a small island famous for its marine reserve that offers great diving opportunities. The island of Favignana, part of the Aegadian Islands, is also easily accessible and known for its beautiful beaches and charming villages.

Is there a high-speed ferry from Naples to Palermo?

The high-speed ferry from Naples to Palermo operated by Grimaldi Lines, takes 8h 30m, costs £183.

Should I fly or ferry to Palermo?

While flying to Palermo is quicker at around 1.5 hours, taking a ferry offers a scenic experience that can take approximately 10-12 hours. Ferries allow you to relax, enjoy sea views, and smoothly transition from cities like Naples or Genoa, making the journey more comfortable and immersive. Despite the extended travel time, the ferry trip to Palermo provides a unique and enjoyable way to reach the destination and is favored by many travelers for its charm and leisurely pace.

Do you need a passport to go from Naples to Palermo?

Yes, you do need a valid passport to travel from Naples to Palermo, as both cities are located in Italy. However, if you are an Italian citizen traveling within the country, you may be able to use other forms of identification, such as a national identity card. It's always a good idea to carry your passport to avoid any issues during your journey.

How do I get from Naples airport to Palermo by ferry?

From Naples airport, take the Alibus shuttle to Napoli Centrale train station. From there, you can take a taxi or walk to Molo Beverello, the main port in Naples, which offers ferries to Palermo. The journey should take about 30-40 minutes by shuttle and an additional 10-15 minutes to reach the port.

Is the ferry from Naples to Palermo rough?

The ferry ride from Naples to Palermo can be rough due to choppy sea conditions in the Tyrrhenian Sea, especially during the winter months. Seasonal variations can also affect the sea conditions, with calmer waters usually experienced during the summer months. It's recommended to check the weather forecast before your trip and consider taking motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.

What is the easiest way to travel from Naples to Palermo?

The easiest way to travel from Naples to Palermo is by taking a direct flight, which is the fastest option, typically lasting around 1.5 hours. For a more scenic journey, consider taking a ferry across the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering beautiful views of the coastline during the approximately 10-hour trip. The most budget-friendly option is usually taking a train or bus, although it will take longer than flying or taking a ferry.

Naples Guide

The Italian city of Naples, or Napoli as it is also called, is located in the Campania region of the country and lies on the Gulf of Naples, on southern Italy's west coast. The city is located in an enviable position between two volcanic areas, Mount Vesuvius and the Campi Flegrei. The Roman ruins of Pompeii, Herculaneum, Oplontis and Stabiae, which were destroyed the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, are located close to the city as is the city of Sorrento and the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Also located close to Naples are the former parts of the Roman naval facility of Portus Julius, namely the port towns of Pozzuoli and Baia which are both to the north of Naples. The city is adorned with medieval, Baroque and Renaissance churches, castles and palaces and has long been an important centre for the arts and architecture. In the 18th century, Naples went through a period of neoclassicism, following the discovery of the remarkably intact Roman ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii.  

The port of Naples is home to several ferry, hydrofoil and SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) catamaran services, linking numerous locations in both the Neapolitan province, including Capri, Ischia and Sorrento, and the Salernitan province, including Salerno, Positano and Amalfi. Ferry services also operate to Sicily, Sardinia, Ponza and the Aeolian Islands.

Palermo Guide

The city of Palermo is located on the Italian island of Sicily and lies on the island's north west coast and has a large and strategically important natural port, next to the Monte Pellegrino. The city is typically Mediterranean and can trace its history back to the 8th century and is today known for its Norman buildings, fabulous palaces and the hustle and bustle of its markets. Palermo's historic centre is the Quattro Canti district, which means 'Four Corners' and is where a number of the city's most spectacular attractions can be found. These include the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The cathedral's sheer size and lovely architecture really needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. Also popular in the city is the medieval Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi and the 12th century Castello della Zisa. For visitors who enjoy the performing arts there is also the Teatro Massimo which is a recently refurbished theatre that puts on regular performances.  

Ferries from the city's port depart to Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples and Tunisia.

Everything you need to know about Naples to Palermo ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Naples to Palermo?  

If you're looking for the cheapest way to get to Palermo from Naples, we recommend booking your ferry in advance. Naples Palermo ferry prices vary depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Palermo Naples ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re travelling from Naples to Palermo by boat in summer it’s always best to make your Naples to Palermo ferry booking in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the cheapest Naples to Palermo ferry.

Do you offer student discount on Naples Palermo ferry tickets?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Naples Palermo ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Naples to Palermo ferry booking.

Onboard the Naples Palermo ferry  

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Naples to Palermo?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Naples to Palermo ferry with luggage

If you're getting the Naples to Palermo ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Naples to Palermo ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

Tirrenia: no specific limit

Grandi Navi Veloci: no specific limit

Grimaldi Lines: 1 piece of hand luggage per person 

What facilities are available on board ferries from Naples to Palermo?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the ferry between Naples and Palermo. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on the Naples to Palermo boat differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin.   

Tirrenia: Numbered seating is available as well as a range of cabins

Grandi Navi Veloci: cabins, suites, deck seats and pullman seats are available on board

Grimaldi Lines: there’s deck passage and armchair seating on board along with comfortable cabins 

Is there reduced mobility access on the Naples to Palermo ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Naples to Palermo are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

Tirrenia: Reserved seats are available on board for people with reduced mobility.

Grandi Navi Veloci: Specially adapted cabins can be reserved on board.

Grimaldi Lines: There are accessible cabins and dedicated assistance desks. Assistance is also available on board if you request it in advance. 

Taking the ferry from Naples to Palermo  

How early do I need to arrive at Naples port?  

We recommend arriving at Naples port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Naples to Palermo ferry tickets?

Your Naples to Palermo ferry tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?  

The latest check-in time for your Naples to Palermo ferry booking should be in your confirmation email.  

Tirrenia: at least 90 minutes before departure with a vehicle and 30 minutes before for foot passengers

Grandi Navi Veloci: from 2 hours to 45 minutes before departure for vehicles and 1 hour to 45 minutes before for foot passengers

Grimaldi Lines: at least 1 hour before departure  

Is there parking at Naples port?  

Yes, parking is available at Naples port.

How to get to Naples port 

Naples port is easily accessible from the town centre and airport.

From Naples city centre:

By foot: approximately 10 minutes. 
By bus: the Alibus runs from the city centre to the port which takes around 15 minutes. 
By subway: take the subway line 1 from Piazza Garibaldi to Municipio. It should take just a few minutes.

From Naples Airport:

By bus: Alibus operated a shuttle bus service from the airport to the port in around 35 minutes. 
By taxi: taxis usually take around 25-30 minutes.

Useful information on your arrival to Palermo

Ferries to Palermo will take you to the capital of Sicily. It's located within walking distance of the centre of the city, although you can also get a bus or taxi if needed. If you're travelling further, public buses and taxis are also available at the port to take you to various locations in Sicily. 

If you're travelling by car, standard speed limits in Italy are as follows:

Built-up areas: 50 km/h or 31mph 
Outside built-up areas: 90km/h or 55mph 
Dual carriageways: 110km/h or 68mph 
Motorways: 130km/h or 80mph