Ferry from Rome to Palermo

How to Get from Rome to Palermo by Ferry

Have you just visited Rome and are now looking to explore a Sicilian destination? Palermo, the regional capital of Sicily, should be one of your top choices. Lying right between the Italian Peninsula and North Africa, Palermo majestically blends the two worlds. From its sites to its gastronomic traditions, the two diametrically opposed influences are almost tangible everywhere in Palermo. Moreover, serene beaches with crystal-clear waters surround the Sicilian city, as well as bustling shores with beach bars and an abundance of nightlife options.

So, are you planning your journey from Rome to Sicily? If you want to catch a ferry route from Rome to Palermo, you’ll have to reach the Port of Rome, located in Civitavecchia, 87km/54 miles away from the Italian capital. Port taxis and private port transfers are the most comfortable ways to reach the Port of Civitavecchia. Alternatively, trains run from Civitavecchia to Rome and vice versa frequently, providing fast, cheap, and affordable connections, while buses and shuttles also travel to the Port of Rome. Finally, travelers enjoying autonomous rides typically rent a car to reach Civitavecchia, board the ferry to Palermo with their rental vehicle, and explore the Sicilian city at their own pace.

Types of Ferries from Civitavecchia to Palermo

Are you wondering if there are high-speed ferries traveling from Rome to Sicily? Only conventional vessels link Rome to Palermo. Thus, GNV Auriga and Splendid are the two ships sailing from Civitavecchia to Palermo. They are both well-equipped and accessible, providing all the necessary services and amenities for travelers with disabilities (accessible cabins, restrooms, elevators, etc.). Additionally, all their premises are air-conditioned, while different types of cabins are available to passengers traveling to Palermo. As a result, passengers, regardless of their needs and affordability, can usually book a cabin that meets their requirements and keeps their budget low.

In detail, two ships sail from Civitavecchia to Palermo. They are both Ro-Ro passenger ferries (conventional). GNV Auriga offers its passengers all the anticipated services. Moreover, it features an à la carte restaurant and a self-service area, along with a games room. On the other hand, Splendid boasts one pizzeria as well as restaurants, a snack bar, and children’s play areas. What’s more, a chapel and shops can also be found onboard.

Are you unsure about the differences between conventional and high-speed ferries? In other words, what are the plus points of traveling with a conventional ferry from Rome to Palermo?

The Ferry Schedule from Rome to Palermo

Unfortunately, there is only one route per week from Civitavecchia to Palermo. That being said, ferry journeys are usually more frequent during the summer months. In any case, you should always take a look at the current timetable as sailings tend to change slightly from year to year. Additionally, it is recommended to book your ferry ticket from Rome to Palermo as early as possible. Fares are generally lower for early reservations, while travelers are sure to find an available ticket as well as the cabin of their choice.

In general terms, ferries from Rome to Sicily (Palermo) take about 13 hours and 45 minutes to reach their destination. Expectantly, under adverse weather conditions, crossings may last longer. What’s more, even though ferry routes are punctual and departure times are expected to be followed, delays may happen if the weather doesn’t permit sailings.

The majority of ferry docks lie close to the ADM Ferry Terminal. Explicitly, Piers 2, 16, 18, 20, 21, 27, 28, 29, and 30 serve the ferry routes at the Port of Civitavecchia. Docks 16, 18, 20, and 21 are the closest to the Ferry Terminal. Hence, you should always check the departure pier to arrive at the port on time. The departure dock for your ferry from Rome to Palermo will be displayed on your ferry ticket. It’s important to keep in mind that the Port of Rome often gets overcrowded, especially during the summer season. Therefore, GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) -the ferry company linking Civitavecchia to Palermo- requires its passengers to be at the Port of Rome one hour before the scheduled departure of the ferry and two hours before the ferry’s departure time if traveling with a vehicle.

Ferry Companies with Routes from Civitavecchia to Palermo

Fares and Tickets from Rome to Sicily (Palermo)

Ferry tickets for the Civitavecchia to Palermo route are priced based on several factors. Hence, the time of the year (fares are typically higher during summer), the type of reserved seat, the reservation of a cabin, etc., affect the final cost. In general terms, the most affordable ferry ticket from Rome to Palermo (for an airplane-type seat) costs around €51,56/$56,64. Kids between 4 and 12 years of age are entitled to discounted fares, while younger children (0-4) travel free of charge. On the other hand, if you want to book a cabin for the 13-hour ferry journey, the cheapest option is a reserved berth, costing about €64/$70,30. Food passes are also available during the booking process. As for luggage, two bags per passenger onboard don’t bring extra charges.

Have you booked your ferry from Rome to Palermo online? Please remember that GNV doesn’t accept e-tickets during the boarding process. Hence, you’ll have to reach the GNV ticket counters inside the Ferry Terminal to get a boarding pass. The ticket desks are open:

Routes and Fares of Ferry Companies from Civitavecchia to Palermo

The ferry schedule changes from time to time, as do the fares for the ferry journey from Rome to Palermo. Still, if you want an idea of the average costs and available routes, you should check the current sailings and prices:

GNV Ferry Routes from Rome to Palermo

FAQs