Italy
Salerno to Palermo Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
At a glance
The Salerno to Palermo ferry. It is operated by Grimaldi Lines.
- Sailings listed
- 0
Salerno to Palermo ferry timetable
Seasonal sailing times
The Salerno to Palermo ferry is operated by Grimaldi Lines. 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 Salerno – Palermo crossing
The Salerno to Palermo ferry connects the Campania coast, just south of Naples, with the Sicilian capital, offering travellers in southern Italy a direct sea route to the island. Salerno is a practical alternative departure port to Naples, and the crossing is served by Grimaldi Lines, with GNV also operating on the wider Campania-to-Palermo corridor.
How long it takes
The crossing between Salerno and Palermo runs around 10 hours, with times reported between roughly 9 and 11 hours depending on the operator and sailing. This makes it one of the shorter mainland links to Palermo compared with the long hauls from Genoa or Civitavecchia further north.
Schedule and season
Departure times on this route vary widely, from late-evening sailings to overnight and even very early-morning departures, so it is worth checking the exact timetable for your date. Frequency is limited - typically a handful of sailings per week - and demand climbs sharply in summer, so booking ahead is recommended for peak travel.
Onboard and vehicles
The ships are equipped for both foot passengers and drivers, with cabins ranging from inside to sea-view suites for those crossing overnight, plus onboard seating, dining and bar service. As a full vehicle ferry the route carries cars, vans and motorcycles: travellers with a vehicle should ensure the booking includes it, arrive at the port well before departure - generally at least a couple of hours ahead - and collect a boarding tag at vehicle check-in. Arrivals into Palermo are frequently scheduled for the morning, making it easy to organise onward transfers across Sicily.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Cruise-ferry cabins & suites
- Reserved seats & deck
- Vehicle decks
- Restaurants, shops & pools
Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. 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 Salerno to Palermo ferry crossing?
The crossing takes around 10 hours, with reported times ranging from roughly 9 to 11 hours depending on the operator and the specific sailing.
Which company runs the Salerno to Palermo ferry?
Grimaldi Lines operates sailings from Salerno to Palermo, and GNV also serves the broader Campania-to-Palermo corridor. Check the specific sailing for the operator on your date.
What time does the ferry depart from Salerno?
Departure times vary widely on this route, from late-evening and overnight sailings to very early-morning departures, so it is best to check the exact timetable for your travel date.
Can I take a car on the Salerno to Palermo ferry?
Yes. It is a full vehicle ferry carrying cars, vans and motorcycles. Make sure your booking includes the vehicle, arrive at least a couple of hours before departure, and collect your boarding tag at vehicle check-in.
Are cabins available for the crossing?
Yes. Cabins range from inside to sea-view suites and are recommended for overnight sailings, alongside onboard seating, restaurants and bar service.
How much does a ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (Grimaldi Lines) 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 Grimaldi Lines, 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 Palermo
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Palermo.
Same departure port
More ferries from Salerno
Other crossings departing Salerno.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Salerno or Palermo
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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