GNV Genoa - Palermo: a comfortable journey to Sicily

Planning a trip to Sicily? Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) offers a comfortable and scenic ferry route from Genoa, mainland Italy, to Palermo. This overnight journey is a convenient way to travel between these 2 destinations, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sea views before arriving refreshed in Sicily.

Here, we'll provide all the essential information you need to know about traveling to Palermo from Genoa with Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), including departure, arrival times and prices.

Genoa's historic port, a vibrant hub welcoming ferries and cruise ships

Setting Sail from Genoa to Palermo with GNV

In 2024, Grandi Navi Veloci ferries travel from the port of Genoa to Palermo in Sicily 6-7 times per week, depending on the season. During the high season (June - August), the ferry usually departs from Genoa at 21:30 and arrives in Palermo at 18:15 the next day, but there are also departures at 18:00 and 19:00. In the off-season (September - May), most ferries to Palermo from Genoa depart between 21:00 and midnight.

Browse all available ferry crossings on Ferryhopper, and book your ferry tickets in just a few steps!

Book Tickets

How much is the ferry from Genoa to Palermo?

Tickets for the Genoa - Palermo ferry connection (and vice versa) with GNV start at about €60 and can cost up to over €100, depending on the season.

Note: you can transport your vehicle on the GNV ferries that operate on this route, as they have car decks. Car prices on GNV ferries normally start at around €40. As for motorcycle tickets, prices start at around €25.

How long is the ferry from Genoa to Palermo?

The ferry trip from Genoa to Palermo ranges from approximately 20.5 hours to 24 hours, making it a comfortable overnight journey. You can unwind in your cabin, enjoy delicious meals onboard and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Genoa - Palermo ferry trip with GNV

Find out more about the ferry trip to Sicily with GNV starting from Genoa: cabins, vessel characteristics, pet policies, and amenities.

Where is the port of Genoa?

The port of Genoa is located in the Italian region of Liguria and is the largest commercial port in Italy. Ferries to Sicily usually depart from Ponte Biagio Assereto terminal.

The terminal is easily accessible by public transport (20 minutes on foot from Piazza Principe) and by car (10 minute drive from the city center).

Which GNV ferries travel between Genoa and Palermo?

These are the GNV vessels that usually operate on the Genoa - Palermo connection:

• Splendid
• GNV Auriga
• GNV Sirio
• Excelsior
• Rhapsody
• La Suprema

  The seating area of the Excelsior vessel of GNV

Can I book a cabin?

Yes, you can. GNV caters to all travel styles with a variety of cabin options. Pick from interior or exterior cabins (with or without a sea view) to suit your budget and preference. Solo travelers can enjoy the privacy of a 1-bed cabin, while groups can choose from spacious cabins for 4 or suites that offer double beds or configurations for families.

Cabin prices start at around €90, depending on the type of cabin. As cabins usually sell out fast, we recommend booking well in advance.

How long in advance do I have to leave the cabin before arriving in Palermo coming from Genoa?

GNV offers a Late Check-Out service that allows you to stay in your cabin up to 15 minutes before disembarking in Palermo (additional fee applies except for passengers booked in a pet cabin). Please note that the Late Check-Out service applies to the following GNV vessels operating on the Genoa - Palermo route: Excelsior, La Suprema and Rhapsody.

Tip: standard check-out times can vary, so it's always a good idea to double-check with GNV directly for the exact timeframe.

Can I bring my pet on the Genoa - Palermo ferry?

Yes, GNV welcomes pets onboard their ferries to Sicily! Just make sure to include your pet in your booking and pay the additional fee.

Keep in mind that for dogs and cats, there are dedicated spots, while other animals must travel in cages.

Pets are generally not allowed in most passenger areas except for specifically designated pet cabins. Pets can enjoy, however, designated walking areas on the open decks.

What amenities are available on board?

Not only is the Genoa - Palermo route convenient, but it was also recognized by tourism experts as Europe's best ferry route for families! This recognition highlights the many benefits of choosing GNV for your trip compared to other transportation options.

Relax and unwind onboard GNV ferries while enjoying a variety of family-friendly amenities, including:

• Comfortable lounges: on ferries to Palermo, you can find airplane-type seats, perfect for taking a nap, watching a movie or playing games with loved ones.
• Pizzerias and restaurants: while onboard, you can enjoy a cup of coffee, grab a snack or savor a delicious meal at the à la carte or self-service restaurants, with options for both adults and children.
• Wi-Fi access: GNV offers WiFi packages (purchased onboard) for browsing the internet during your journey, so you can stay connected to your loved ones or catch up on work.
• Children's play areas: keep your little ones entertained with dedicated play areas featuring: a TV for watching cartoons, tables for drawing and lots of games. Bear in mind that children up to the age of 4 travel for free!
• Shops: browse a selection of shops offering everything from personal hygiene products and toys to clothing, allowing you to indulge in some shopping therapy while at sea.

Palermo bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, with Mount Pellegrino in the background

Book Genoa - Palermo ferry tickets with GNV

Now that you know how to travel from Genoa to Palermo with GNV, you just have to book your tickets online on Ferryhopper. Check our Map of ferries to better organize your ferry trip and get ready for an adventure under the Sicilian sun!

More ferry routes to Palermo (Sicily):

• Rome (Civitavecchia) - Palermo
• Salerno - Palermo
• Naples - Palermo

More ferry routes from Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) : 

• Rome (Civitavecchia) - Olbia (Sardinia)
• Olbia - Genoa
• Bari - Durrës (Albania)