In short: From Sicily you can reach the offshore islands by car ferry (slower, takes vehicles) or by hydrofoil/aliscafo (faster, passengers only, more weather-sensitive). Important for planning: crossing times vary a lot – the Egadi Islands and the nearby Aeolian Islands are quick to reach, while Ustica, Pantelleria and the Pelagie Islands take considerably longer. The same search covers both getting to the island and hopping onward between islands.
The search tool for crossings to the Aeolian, Egadi and Pelagie Islands as well as to Ustica and Pantelleria will be integrated here shortly – including connections between the islands. Until then, our travel agency is happy to help you with connections and booking.
Which port, which connection – and how long does it take?
| Island group | Departure port | Connection & duration (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Egadi Islands (Favignana, Levanzo, Marettimo) | Trapani | Hydrofoil, short (Favignana/Levanzo approx. 15–30 min); Marettimo longer |
| Aeolian Islands (Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi, Alicudi) | Milazzo (main gateway); seasonally Messina, Palermo | Hydrofoil & car ferry; Lipari/Vulcano from approx. 1 hour, outer islands (Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi) considerably longer |
| Ustica | Palermo | Hydrofoil/ferry, longer (approx. 1.5 hrs+); few connections, remote |
| Pantelleria | Trapani (overnight ferry); flight from Trapani/Palermo | Long crossing – usually better by flight |
| Pelagie Islands (Lampedusa, Linosa) | Porto Empedocle | Long overnight ferry; Lampedusa usually by flight |
What this means for your planning: the short crossings to the Egadi Islands and the nearby Aeolian Islands are also suitable for day trips. Ustica takes longer and has only a few connections – better suited to a stay than a day trip. For Pantelleria and Lampedusa, the ferry is a long overnight crossing; depending on your travel dates, flying is the more comfortable choice here.
Important and honest: hydrofoils are cancelled more often than car ferries in wind and high seas – plan your return with a buffer, especially before connecting flights. On several small islands, taking a vehicle is restricted or banned in high summer. In peak season and around Ferragosto, you should book early.
Frequently asked questions
Which islands are suitable for a day trip?
Above all the Egadi Islands from Trapani (short crossing) and the nearby Aeolian Islands (Lipari, Vulcano, Salina) from Milazzo. For Ustica, Pantelleria and the Pelagie Islands, you should allow more time due to the longer journey.
Hydrofoil or car ferry – which is better?
The hydrofoil (aliscafo) is faster but more expensive, doesn’t take vehicles, and is more likely to be cancelled in wind. The car ferry is slower and cheaper, and carries vehicles and luggage more reliably in rough seas.
Can I travel from one island to another?
Within one island group, yes – for example between the Aeolian Islands by hydrofoil. Between different groups (e.g. Aeolian to Egadi) there is no direct connection; you have to go via mainland Sicily.
Are connections cancelled in bad weather?
Yes, this does happen – especially with hydrofoils and on exposed routes. Don’t rely on a single return connection and plan a buffer day before flights.
Have your island hopping and crossings planned for you
Want to combine several islands or unsure about ports and connections? Our travel agency puts together a coherent route with suitable crossings and accommodation for you. Simply send us a no-obligation travel enquiry.
More on mobility in Sicily
- Overview: Mobility in Sicily · Island Hopping · Car Ferries to Sicily
- Getting to Sicily · Rental car · Bus & Train · Parking & ZTL
Ferry schedules, crossing times, prices and seasonal availability depend on the season and should be checked before travelling. Official operators: Liberty Lines, Siremar, Caronte & Tourist. As of: June 2026.
