Grimaldi Lines

The History of Grimaldi Lines

The name Grimaldi is inseparably connected to premium and pioneering maritime services. Having a leading part in the Italian shipping industry and playing a paramount role in the Motorways of the Sea (the EU’s initiative towards the development of the sea routes and the maritime connections between the member states), Grimaldi Group -the parent company of Grimaldi Lines- continues to uphold its position as a key player in European maritime transport.

Grimaldi Group was founded in 1947 in Naples, Italy, by the grandchildren of Achille Lauro’s (the famous Italian shipowner and politician) sister Amelia. Amelia Lauro was married to Giovanni Grimaldi. Her grandchildren -Luigi, Mario, Ugo, Aldo, and Guido- founded the Sicula Oceanica S. A., which later became the Grimaldi Group. At first, the company handled only cargo transport. In fact, in the post-war period, it served transatlantic routes, linking the Mediterranean Sea to South and North America. During the 60s, its star began to rise. Specifically, the year 1969 was a turning point in its history, marking its new involvement in vehicle transport from Italy to the United Kingdom.

Nowadays, the Grimaldi Group features the largest fleet in the Mediterranean. The Grimaldi family is still in charge of the leading Italian maritime company, which is based in Naples and Palermo. With the safety of its passengers and environmental protection as its main priorities, the Grimaldi Group continually buys out smaller shipping companies, dominating the area of the Mediterranean Sea and “forcing” a modern, high-tech, and environmentally sustainable growth rate in the maritime transport sector. Hence, the Grimaldi Group is the parent company of several subsidiaries, following the same philosophy and corporate values. In detail, the Minoan Lines link Greece to Ancona, Finnlines serve the Baltic Sea, and the Trasmed offer sailings at the Balearic Islands. Last but not least, the Grimaldi Lines provide sailings from mainland Italy to Sardinia and Sicily as well as routes from and to Spain, Greece, and Tunisia.

The Grimaldi Lines Ferries

Grimaldi Lines has a fleet of modern and technologically advanced vessels. Thus, it becomes evident that the company invests in safety and environmental protection and aims to provide premium and top-rated services and amenities, establishing itself as a pioneer in the field of ferry transport. In detail, the following ferries are part of the Grimaldi Lines:

Grimaldi Lines Routes and Destinations

The ferries of Grimaldi Lines travel from the mainland to Sardinia and Sicily and also offer connections from and to Spain, Tunisia, and Greece. Overall, Grimaldi Lines focuses on serving the most popular tourist routes and offers crossings to the top and trending destinations. In detail, the Grimaldi Lines ferries sail from and to the following destinations:

The Most Popular Grimaldi Lines Ferry Routes

The Grimaldi Lines Ferries’ Services and Amenities

Grimaldi Lines, part of the renowned Grimaldi Group, operates on the same principles and values as its parent company. Thus, it is a sustainable maritime company continuously trying to minimize its environmental impact. Moreover, passenger safety and the premium quality of the provided services are a given when it comes to ferry routes with Grimaldi Lines. Expectantly, all the vessels comprising the fleet of Grimaldi Lines adhere to all the safety protocols and regulations, aiming to achieve the highest safety standards for their passengers. The numerous ships’ certifications are clear evidence of that fact.

Is Grimaldi Lines sensitive to the needs of passengers with disabilities? The answer is definitely positive. All Grimaldi Lines ferries are fully accessible, equipped with ramps, elevators, and special designated zones for disabled passengers throughout its public areas. The elevators feature an audio system for blind travelers, while tactile guides are to be found all over the ferries leading to their central parts and most common areas. Accessible cabins and restrooms are also available. Finally, the ships’ staff is specially trained to accommodate all the requirements of travelers with special needs.

Passengers wishing to travel with Grimaldi Lines can book a deck ticket. This is the cheapest option but doesn’t come with a reserved seat. Therefore, customers have to find an available seat in the common areas, bars, or on the decks. Alternatively, numbered armchairs are also an alternative. They are assigned seats located in areas with TVs. Moreover, travelers can reserve a bed in a women’s or men’s cabin. This option is available only for routes to Tunisia. On the other hand, all Grimaldi Lines ferries have cabins. The internal ones are cheaper than the external cabins, which feature portholes. Luxurious passengers can reserve one of the junior suites or the owner’s suites as well. Finally, pet owners can settle on a pet cabin. Each pet cabin can accommodate up to three pets.

The services provided during the Grimaldi Lines ferry routes aren’t only top-quality. They are also various. Thus, all vessels boast self-service and à la carte restaurants, focusing on Mediterranean cuisine. Gluten-free and allergy-friendly options are also available, while on routes to Tunisia, Halal food is also served. In addition to those culinary facilities, snack bars are located inside the ferries, as well as in their outdoor areas, near the swimming pools. Please note that depending on the chosen route and the time of the year, some of the amenities mentioned may not be available.

Furthermore, the majority of Grimaldi Lines ferries have videogame rooms and slot machines, while casinos are also to be found in some of the Grimaldi vessels. Most of the ferries also boast discos, offering sky views through their glass domes, along with a wellness center. Indeed, at Cruise Roma, Cruise Barcelona, Cruise Europa, and Cruise Sardegna, passengers can use the sauna and jacuzzi facilities, the Turkish baths, and the fitness area. Massage rooms are also available, as well as beauty treatments. Massage rooms are located on the Zeus ferry too, while Europalink features a massage area and sauna. Shops are listed among the amenities on Grimaldi Lines ferries, selling convenience products, gadgets, toys, perfumes, clothing, souvenirs, and a variety of gift options. Therefore, whatever you may need during your sailing, you’ll most probably find it onboard. As for business travelers, some vessels come with meeting and conference rooms. Are you traveling during the summer months? Grimaldi ferries boast outdoor swimming pools, surrounded by designated areas, where travelers can relax on loungers or sunbeds. Even though you’re traveling, you can always stay in touch with your loved ones or check your socials. The ferries of Grimaldi Lines offer Wi-Fi for a fee. You can pay for your Wi-Fi package during the booking process as well. Finally, doctors are present in all Grimaldi Lines ferries (except for Kydon Palace).

Families are well taken care of while sailing with Grimaldi Lines. Apart from family cabins, the ships feature play areas where films and cartoons are shown and various activities are organized. In fact, in their mini-libraries, children can participate in reading sessions. The ships’ restaurants offer kid menus and high chairs, while parents can ask for travel cribs or use the available changing tables.

Useful Info About Grimaldi Lines Ferries

*Tickets can also be purchased by phone, from collaborating travel agents, or at Grimaldi Lines sales points in Naples and Rome. Additionally, they are available at port counters and, in some exceptional cases, at the reception desks onboard.

FAQs