In short: Anyone who doesn’t want to drive or fly the whole way can take the car ferry to Sicily from the Italian mainland – from Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples or Salerno to Palermo, Termini Imerese or Catania. Especially worthwhile for longer stays and when arriving by car or camper. Prices vary strongly by season; for overnight crossings, a cabin is worth it.
Pure sailing time: about 12–16 hours from Naples, around 20 hours from Genoa or Livorno – depending on sea conditions. It’s worth comparing departure and arrival ports (a few extra kilometres by road can significantly lower the fare) and booking early, as cheap allocations sell out quickly.
Which port for the crossing?
| Departure (mainland) | Arrival (Sicily) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Genoa | Palermo | longest route (approx. 20 hrs), practical when arriving from the north |
| Livorno | Palermo / Termini Imerese | northern Italy, overnight crossing with cabin |
| Civitavecchia (near Rome) | Palermo / Termini Imerese | medium distance |
| Naples | Palermo / Catania | shortest common crossing (approx. 12–16 hrs) |
| Salerno | Palermo / Catania | alternative to Naples |
Travel times and prices are approximate and depend on the season and weather – please check current details.
Frequently asked questions
Is the car ferry worth it compared to crossing via the Strait of Messina?
If you’re travelling from northern or central Italy, the overnight ferry saves a long leg and an overnight stay. If you’re driving through southern Italy anyway, the short crossing via the Strait of Messina (Villa San Giovanni) is often the cheaper option.
Do I need a cabin?
For the long overnight crossings (Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia), a cabin is highly recommended. On shorter daytime crossings, a seat or time on deck is often enough.
How early should I book?
As early as possible in high summer and around Ferragosto, especially with a vehicle or camper. Early-bird fares are often significantly cheaper.
Have your journey to Sicily planned for you
Unsure about the choice of port, timing, or combining it with accommodation and a rental car? Our travel agency puts together the right car ferry crossing and the rest of your trip for you. Simply send us a no-obligation travel enquiry.
More on mobility in Sicily
- Overview: Mobility in Sicily · Getting to Sicily · Ferries to the Islands
- Rental car · Bus & Train · Parking & ZTL
Ferry schedules, prices and seasonal availability depend on the season and should be checked before travelling. Official operators include GNV, Grimaldi Lines, Tirrenia/Moby, Caronte & Tourist. As of: June 2026.
