Italy · From the volcanic Aeolians to the long lines across the Tyrrhenian
Sicilyferry routes & schedules
Sicily's ports look outward in every direction. From Milazzo the hydrofoils dart among the smoking Aeolian Islands, while Palermo sends overnight ships north to the Italian mainland and south across to Tunis. It is an island whose ferries carry both weekend islanders and cross-Mediterranean travellers.
- 9
- Connections
- 4
- Operators
- 5
- Quays
- 2h 25m
- Avg crossing
About
Ferry travel in Sicily
The Aeolian Islands from Milazzo
Milazzo is the springboard to the Aeolians — Lipari, Vulcano, Salina and the ever-active Stromboli. Fast craft from Liberty Lines and car ferries from Siremar work these crossings, the hydrofoils quick and frequent in season, the ferries slower but able to carry vehicles.
The archipelago's timetable contracts in winter, so verify sailings on the operator's schedule outside the summer months.
Palermo's long-haul routes
From Palermo and nearby Termini Imerese, overnight ferries reach Naples, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Genoa and Cagliari in Sardinia, run by lines including Grandi Navi Veloci, Grimaldi Lines and Tirrenia. Palermo also links across to Tunis, an external border crossing requiring your passport.
For the broader network, see ferries across Italy.
Quays
Ferry quays in Sicily
5 quays with published connections. Open a quay for every route that calls there.
At a glance
Which Sicily crossings run most often?
The busiest published crossings, ranked by number of listed sailings.
| Route | Crossing | Sailings | Operators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milazzo → Lipari | 1h 30m | 15 / wk | 2 |
| Milazzo → Vulcano | 45m | 14 / wk | 2 |
| Milazzo → Salina | 3h 20m | 13 / wk | 2 |
| Milazzo → Stromboli | 1h 10m | 7 / wk | 2 |
| Palermo → Naples | — | 6 / wk | 2 |
| Palermo → Genoa | — | 5 / wk | 1 |
Timetables
Ferry routes in Sicily
6 routes departing Sicily.
Milazzo4 routes
Operators
Who runs the ferries in Sicily?
Travel updates
Latest updates for Sicily
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the Aeolian Islands?
Milazzo is the main port. Liberty Lines runs fast hydrofoils and Siremar operates car ferries to Lipari, Vulcano, Salina and Stromboli, most frequently in summer.
Are there overnight ferries from Sicily to the mainland?
Yes. Palermo has overnight sailings to Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), Genoa and Cagliari in Sardinia with GNV, Grimaldi Lines and Tirrenia.
Can I sail from Sicily to Tunisia?
Palermo connects to Tunis across the Mediterranean. As this crosses an external border, you will need a passport and should allow for customs formalities.
How many ferry routes are there in Sicily?
Sicily has 9 ferry and express-boat connections across 5 quays. Each route page lists the timetable, crossing time and operator.
Who operates ferries in Sicily?
Boat and ferry services in Sicily are run by 4 operators, including Grandi Navi Veloci, Liberty Lines, Siremar and Tirrenia. Most are part of Italy's county public-transport network.
How long are ferry crossings in Sicily?
Across Sicily's active crossings the average sailing takes about 2h 25m, while the longest runs roughly 3h 20m. Each route page shows the exact duration.
Explore
Other ferry regions in Italy
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated June 17, 2026.