Barcelona to Genoa Ferry

The Barcelona to Genoa ferry is a long-haul Mediterranean crossing linking Spain's Catalan capital with the historic port city of Genoa in northwest Italy. It is operated exclusively by Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) and is one of the main sea links between the Iberian Peninsula and Italy, popular with travellers, road-trippers bringing vehicles, and those who prefer a relaxed overnight passage to flying or the long drive around the coast.

Crossing time and schedule

This is a substantial voyage: the crossing typically takes around 20 to 23 hours, depending on the vessel and conditions, with the fastest sailings completing in a little under 21 hours. GNV runs the route year-round with roughly two to three departures per week rather than daily service, so it pays to plan around the timetable. Because of the length, most sailings involve an overnight aboard the ship.

Onboard the ship

GNV deploys large cruise-style ferries such as the Excellent, Fantastic and Splendid on this corridor. Given the overnight duration, cabins are the recommended way to travel, and the ships carry a full range of facilities:

• Private cabins, from inside to en-suite sea-view
• Reclining seats for budget travellers
• Restaurants, bars, cafeterias and shops
• Vehicle decks for cars, motorcycles, campervans and freight

Documents and ports

Both Spain and Italy are in the European Union and the Schengen Area, so there is no passport control between them; EU/EEA travellers can sail with a national ID card, while other nationalities should carry a valid passport and any visa their nationality requires. Departures use the Port of Barcelona (Moll Adossat / Moll de Sant Bertran terminals) and arrive at the Port of Genoa, close to the city centre and its onward rail and road connections.