
France
Marseille to Bastia Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
At a glance
The Marseille to Bastia ferry. It is operated by La Méridionale.
- Sailings listed
- 0
Marseille to Bastia ferry timetable
Seasonal sailing times
The Marseille to Bastia ferry is operated by La Méridionale. Sailings change with the season, and departures are confirmed ahead of each sailing period.
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Marseille – Bastia crossing
The Marseille to Bastia ferry is the busiest maritime link between mainland France and Corsica, connecting the Provençal port of Marseille with Bastia, the largest town in northern Corsica and the island's principal commercial gateway. It is the historic backbone route for islanders, holidaymakers and freight, and remains one of the few passenger connections between the French Riviera coast and the northeast tip of the island.
Operators and vessels
Two companies share the service. Corsica Linea is the main operator, sailing ships such as the Pascal Paoli and Vizzavona on the crossing, while La Méridionale also runs mixed passenger-and-freight vessels including the Piana. Between them they provide frequent year-round departures, and on most days you can find at least one sailing from the continent to Bastia, with capacity increasing sharply over the summer season.
Crossing time and overnight sailing
The distance is roughly 240 nautical miles, and the passage is a long one, typically taking in the region of 10 to 12 hours. Most departures leave Marseille in the evening and arrive in Bastia the following morning, so the journey is designed as an overnight crossing that saves a day of travel. Booking a private cabin is the usual choice for a comfortable night at sea, though reclining seats are also available.
On board and vehicles
The ships are full-service car ferries carrying cars, motorhomes, motorcycles and freight, which makes the route popular with families bringing their own vehicle for a Corsican road trip. On board you will typically find cabins, a self-service or à la carte restaurant, bars and lounge areas. Because this is a domestic French route within the European Union, no passport is required for EU citizens, though a valid ID is needed.
Timetables and frequency shift with the season, so it is worth checking current departures before you travel, especially for peak summer dates when sailings fill early.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Cabins & reclining seats
- Large freight decks
- Particulate filters
- Public-service routes
Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Marseille to Bastia?
The crossing covers around 240 nautical miles and usually takes about 10 to 12 hours. Most sailings run overnight, leaving Marseille in the evening and arriving in Bastia the next morning.
Which companies operate the Marseille to Bastia ferry?
Two operators serve the route: Corsica Linea, the main carrier with ships such as the Pascal Paoli and Vizzavona, and La Méridionale, which runs mixed passenger and freight vessels. Together they offer frequent year-round departures.
Is the Marseille to Bastia crossing overnight and can I book a cabin?
Yes. It is primarily an overnight service, so departures generally leave in the evening and arrive the following morning. Private cabins are available and recommended for a good night's sleep, and reclining seats are also offered.
Can I take a car on the Marseille to Bastia ferry?
Yes. These are car ferries that carry cars, motorhomes, motorcycles and freight, so it is a common way to bring your own vehicle for touring Corsica. Book vehicle space in advance, particularly in summer.
Do I need a passport for the Marseille to Bastia ferry?
No passport is required for this route because both Marseille and Bastia are in France, within the European Union. EU travellers need only a valid national ID card or passport as identification.
How often do ferries sail from Marseille to Bastia?
Departures run throughout the year, with sailings on most days and greatly increased frequency during the summer holiday season. Exact timetables vary by month, so check current schedules before booking.
How much does a ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (La Méridionale) for current fares.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailing frequency on this route varies by season. Confirm current dates with the operator before travelling.
Can I take a pet on this ferry?
Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with La Méridionale, so declare your pet when booking.
What's the luggage allowance?
Foot passengers can normally bring their own luggage aboard at no extra charge, with racks or a luggage area near the entrance, and there is usually no airline-style weight limit. Oversized or excess items may carry a fee, so check with the operator if you are travelling with bulky baggage.
Where can I check live sailing times?
The timetable on this page shows the latest published sailings for this route. Always confirm with the operator before travelling, as schedules change seasonally.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Bastia
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Bastia.
Same departure port
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Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Marseille or Bastia
Other ferries that stop at the same quays — handy for connections and nearby travel.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 13, 2026.
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