Ferry from Naples to Palermo (Sicily)

Is there a ferry from Naples to Palermo (Sicily)?

Depending on the season, the Naples - Palermo ferry connection is usually served with 2-4 daily ferry crossings. The route is normally operated by 3 ferry companies: Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines.

Please note that ferry timetables are subject to change from season to season. You can check real-time schedules and ferry ticket prices for the Naples - Palermo (Sicily)
crossing on Ferryhopper.

What’s the ferry schedule from Naples to Palermo (Sicily)?

The earliest ferry normally departs from the port of Naples at 20:00, while the latest departure is usually at 22:30.

During the summer, schedules change, and there are also morning (08:45 or 09:00) and midnight departures from Naples Porta di Massa.

Is there an overnight ferry from Naples to Palermo (Sicily)?

Yes, there is. Ferries that depart from Naples between around 20:00 and midnight, travel overnight and arrive in Palermo the following day, from about 06:45 to 12:00.

How much is the ferry from Naples to Palermo (Sicily)? 

Ferry ticket prices from Naples to Palermo usually range between around €26 and €53. The ticket cost can be higher or lower depending on the operator, discounts, offers, seat type, and vehicle selection.

Find below some indicative prices for foot passenger and vehicle tickets:

• Economy tickets (deck-lounge seats) start at €26 
• Airplane-type seats start at €27
• Vehicle tickets start at around €20

The cheapest option for the Naples - Palermo ferry trip is an economy single-passenger ticket with Grimaldi Lines, costing around €26.

Offers

Discover the best available offers for the ferry trip to Palermo from Naples on Ferryhopper and the Ferryhopper App. Find updated information about our ferry crossings, compare prices and book your ferry tickets without hidden fees.

Note that available offers are automatically applied when booking your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper.

Tip: you can also check out other available ferry offers for Italy in 2024, and find the deal that suits you best.

Discounts

Getting from Naples to Sicily (Palermo) by ferry is easy and comfortable, and you can take advantage of lower-cost ferry tickets thanks to available discounts. The ferry companies offer discounts up to 50% to the following passenger categories:

• Infants
• Children (4-11 years old)
• Sicily residents and those born in Sicily

Note: infants and toddlers up to 3 years travel for free. However, keep in mind that available discounts may vary from one operator to another.

How long is the ferry ride from Naples to Palermo?

The duration of the ferry trip from the port of Naples to Palermo ranges from about 8 hr 30 min to 12 hr. This depends on the company, the route and the weather conditions.

The Naples - Palermo ferry route is direct, ensuring a more comfortable and quicker trip with no delays due to intermediate stops.

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

Ferries operating the route from Naples to Palermo are normally conventional. At the moment, there is no hydrofoil from Naples to Palermo.

The fastest ferry from Naples reaches Palermo in 8.5 hr.

What’s the distance between Naples and Palermo?

The distance between the Naples ferry port and the port of Palermo is approximately 167 nautical miles (about 300 km).

Useful tips for your ferry trip to Palermo (Sicily) from Naples

Here are some travel tips for your trip from Naples to Sicily:

• During peak season and on weekends, we recommend you arrive at the port of Naples at least 1-2 hr before departure to avoid overcrowding, especially if you have a vehicle to board.
• The Naples ferry port is centrally located and well connected: it is about 15 km from Capodichino airport, a few minutes from the highway exit, and only 10 min from Naples Centrale train station.
• Since the Naples - Palermo crossing is not very short, we recommend traveling in a cabin.
• Ferries also depart from Naples to the Termini Imerese port, located approximately 38 km from Palermo. Choose the best port of arrival according to your needs.
• For more details on the return journey, explore the Palermo to Naples ferry route on Ferryhopper.

Where to take the ferry from Naples to Palermo

Ferries to Palermo from the port of Naples depart from the Calata Porta Massa pier, specifically from Via Immacolatella Vecchia. However, always check with your ferry operator for the exact departure pier, as it can vary by company or change.

The entire port area is equipped and complete with basic services, including bars, restaurants, ATMs, bathrooms, and luggage storage.

How to get to the port of Νaples

You can reach the Calata Porta di Massa pier in the port of Naples easily by metro, bus, train, car or taxi, depending on your starting point. Find more information below:

• By bus: several city bus lines, such as 151, provide direct routes to the port area. You can catch these buses from key points in the city, including Piazza Garibaldi.
• By train: if you’re arriving by train, the Napoli Centrale train station is just a short distance from the port. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Calata Porta di Massa.
• By metro: take Line 1 (the Yellow Line) and get off at the Municipio station, which is about a 15-min walk from the port.
• By car: if you’re driving, follow the signs for the Port of Naples. The port is well-connected via the city’s main roadways, and there are parking facilities available near the pier if you need to leave your car.
• By taxi: taxis are widely available throughout Naples and offer a convenient way to reach the port directly from anywhere in the city. Simply request a ride to "Calata Porta di Massa" for easy access to your ferry departure point.

Tip: to reach the Port of Naples from the airport, you can conveniently take the Alibus shuttle service.

Check-in and boarding

Online check-in is not available for ferries traveling from Naples to Palermo. However, you can conveniently book your ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper and collect the physical tickets at the company's collection point at the port before departure.

Please note that you should present your booking number and ID document to pick up your boarding pass with the accommodation number (cabin or seat) in paper form at the port before your trip.

Can I travel on the ferry from Naples to Palermo with a car?

Yes, it is possible to board motor vehicles on ferries operating the Naples - Palermo route. Vehicle tickets for the Naples - Palermo ferry crossing normally start at around €22, while motorcycle prices start at €14. 

However, note that camper prices vary depending on the size and type of the vehicle (van, motorhome), and typically start higher due to the larger space required.

On-board services and amenities

When traveling on the Naples - Palermo ferry route, passengers can browse the web, read their favorite book, enjoy a meal, or watch a film! Here you can find some of the amenities that you can enjoy during your crossing to Palermo:

Dining Options:

• Restaurants and cafés: most ferries offer a selection of dining options, including à la carte restaurants, snack bars and self-service buffets with a variety of dishes to suit different tastes.
• Bars: several ferries feature onboard bars where you can relax with a coffee, cocktail or glass of wine while enjoying the sea views.

Entertainment:

• TV lounges: many ferries are equipped with TV lounges where passengers can watch movies or catch up on shows.
• Wi-Fi services: while traveling, stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi, available for a fee, allowing you to browse the web, check emails or stream content.
• Lounging areas: for those who prefer to unwind with a view, most ferries have spacious sun decks and outdoor lounging areas where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and stunning Mediterranean scenery.
• Shops: onboard shops provide a range of items, from travel essentials to souvenirs, clothing, and local specialties.
• Children’s play areas: families will appreciate the play areas available on some ferries, offering a safe and fun environment for kids to enjoy during the journey.

Ferry Luggage

Each ferry company has its own baggage allowance policy. Specifically:

• On GNV ferries, there is no weight limit on luggage. The ferries also have lockers that are accessible throughout the journey. Keep in mind that you can carry up to 2 bags as personal luggage in addition to your handbags, provided that they don't obstruct passageways or occupy a seat.
• The ferry company of Tirrenia allows each passenger to board with one piece of luggage not exceeding 20 kg.
• Grimaldi Lines, on the other hand, allows each passenger to board with one piece of luggage not exceeding 30 kg.

Cabins

Most Naples - Palermo ferries offer a variety of cabin options, including internal, sea view, suites, and accessible cabins. Typically, cabins are equipped with amenities such as a TV, air conditioning and a wardrobe for added comfort. Some premium cabins and suites may also include extra amenities, such as a private bathroom and a shower, providing a more luxurious travel experience.

Here you can find some indicative cabin prices for the Naples - Palermo ferry trip:

• A 1-bed cabin starts at around €59
• Α 2-bed cabin starts at around €69
• A 4-bed cabin starts at around €157

Cabin prices range from around €60 to over €200, depending on the type of cabin and other amenities such as a window or sea view cabin. If you don’t wish to book a cabin, you can book a numbered airplane-type seat instead to enjoy a comfortable trip in an air-conditioned space. Ferry ticket prices for numbered seats on Naples - Palermo ferries start at around €27.

Tip: due to the long duration of the trip from mainland Italy to Sicily, it is advisable to book either a cabin or an airplane-style seat for a more pleasant and comfortable experience.

Pet travel

On ferries operating from Naples to Palermo, you can usually bring your pet on board. Depending on the company, there are various services and infrastructures for your little friend, such as pet-friendly seats and cabins, kennels, and lounges.

Each ferry operator applies different pet policies and offers different services. More specifically:

• On Grimaldi Lines ferries, dogs and cats have dedicated accommodations, while other animals must travel in carriers provided by the passenger. Pets cannot enter cabins unless the "pet in cabin" service is purchased. The cost to bring a pet on board is €30 and an additional €10 per cabin per journey is required for the 'pet in cabin' service.
• On Tirrenia vessels, pets are not allowed in armchair rooms, or public areas, and cannot be left in cars. They are permitted on pet-friendly cabins, the ferry's outside decks or in designated kennels, which cost around €15 per pet. 
• GNV usually offers pet cabins for crossings from Naples to Palermo, with prices starting at around €100. Alternatively, you can find designated areas for dogs and cats, which may be available for a small fee.

How do I board the ferry with my pet?

To board the ferry with your pet, make sure they are either on a leash or in a carrier. Pet owners may be requested to board and disembark last to help keep the animal calm in a less crowded environment. 

The ferry crew will assist in directing you to your cabin or seat, or guide you to the kennels, where you can set up a comfortable space for your pet.

What documents do I need to travel with my pet by ferry to Palermo from Naples?

When traveling with your pet by ferry to Palermo from Naples, you must have the following documents:

• A boarding pass or pet ticket that includes a reference to your pet, whether for a pet-friendly cabin or kennel.
• A valid health card for your pet.

Book cheap ferry tickets from Naples to Palermo

On Ferryhopper, you can book cheap ferry tickets online from Naples to Palermo with no hidden fees. Use our Map of ferries to visualize and plan your Naples - Palermo ferry trip. Find the schedule that suits you best and book your ferry trip in just a few steps!

Naples

Naples is a city steeped in history and culture. Stroll through its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, discover stunning churches and lively markets, and indulge in a pizza from one of the city's famous pizzerias. Discover more tips and information on our Naples travel guide.

Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere. Wander through its ancient streets, sample delicious Sicilian cuisine and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this coastal gem. Whether you're exploring the historic Quattro Canti or relaxing on the nearby beaches, Palermo promises an unforgettable experience. Find more useful tips and details on our Palermo travel guide.

What ferries go to Palermo from Naples?

The ferry companies GNV, Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines operate on the Naples to Palermo route, including. During the high season, all 3 companies offer up to 2 daily crossings. In the off-season, GNV and Tirrenia provide the most frequent service with up to 6 weekly departures, while Grimaldi Lines usually offers up to 4 weekly crossings.

How far in advance should I book my ferry ticket from Naples to Palermo?

It's advisable to book your ferry tickets from Naples to Palermo at least a few weeks in advance, particularly if you are traveling during the peak season (June to September). Prices generally increase as the departure date approaches, and ferries can fill up quickly during busy periods.

Can I sleep on the ferry from Naples to Palermo?

Yes, you can sleep on the ferry from Naples to Palermo. Ferries typically offer a range of cabin options, as well as comfortable seating areas for overnight journeys.

Can I cancel or change my ferry booking?

Policies for cancellations and changes differ among ferry companies. However, with Ferryhopper's Flexi service, you can modify your trip time, date, or even switch ferry companies without any fees up to 48 hours before departure.