Sardinia is a European island with so much to offer, but first, let us tell you how to get there.
Sardinia is the second-largest of the Mediterranean islands, second only to Sicily, also an island that belongs to Italy.
It has long been a popular place for holidaymakers, the rich and famous, and adventurers to travel to, considering its wide variety of things to do for every type of traveller.
Many people love to explore Sardinia at their own pace, going off the beaten path and having their own stress-free schedule. That is why taking the ferry to Sardinia is ideal for those planning to take a vehicle.
It is so straightforward, you will want to plan your trip right after reading this. First, however, let’s get down to the details.
WBL’s tips for the Ferry to Sardinia
- Book your ferry tickets well in advance, as ferries to Sardinia can get busy, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Sardinia has several ports, so consider which one is most convenient for your travel plans.
- Check the duration of your journey, as some routes are overnight, while others are daytime sailings.
- Arriving at the port early is advisable, especially during busy periods.
- The weather conditions in the Mediterranean can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast for the day of your journey and prepare accordingly.
Getting the ferry to Sardinia – the routes
It is no surprise that Sardinia is one of the most well-connected islands in the Mediterranean. There are a whopping 201 ferries a week to the island, not only from Italy’s mainland and Sicily but also from other well-known cities.
From Italy’s mainland, you can take a ferry to Sardinia from Livorno, Genova, Rome, Naples, Savona, and Salerno.
If you happen to be coming from outside of Italy’s mainland, you have other options for ferries from Barcelona (Spain), Bonifacio (Corsica Island, France), Palermo (Sicily), and Toulon (France).
Read also: A day in Venice: The perfect 24 hour itinerary.
Ferries run all year round but increase their frequency from June to September. So, we recommend to pre-booking your ferry to Sardinia ticket online.
If you have a campervan or a pet accompanying you, don’t worry; many of the ships allow pets, and some even have pet-friendly cabins.
It is worth bearing in mind that the duration of the ferry can vary significantly from under an hour to up to 15 hours. So, make sure to check the schedule and book any cabins if necessary for a long journey.
Once you arrive in Sardinia, there will be plenty to keep you occupied. Let us dive a little deeper into the activities on offer there.
Check out: Italy bucket list: 10 things to do.
What there is to do – staying active
Sardinia is said to have a six-month summer. So, you will be happy to hear that you can take advantage of the beautiful Mediterranean climate for half of the year.
Some of the best activities are swimming, snorkelling, diving, hiking, motorbike tours, cycling, exploring ancient ruins, boating, and many types of watersports.
The island’s landscapes are second to none and make you feel like you are on another planet. With the combination of jagged rocks, boulders, green rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs, beauty is everywhere.
In saying that, if you happen to come to Sardinia in winter, you can make your way up to Sardinia’s highest town, Fonni, for a unique island skiing experience. The four main ski resorts are Bruncu Spina, Mount Spada, S’Arena, and Separadorgiu.
Read more: Warmest countries in Europe in June.
Must-tries in Sardinia – unique experiences once you depart from the ferry to Sardinia
Sardinia is famous for its wine, so wine tasting while on the island is a must-try. Why not combine this with a visit to one of the islands many ‘agriturismos’?
This is a unique island experience offering you a set menu with many courses filled with local delicacies, homegrown products, and produce that is in season.
It also goes without saying that it is best to book ahead for the wine tastings and set dinners at the agriturismo.
While on the island, you must visit the La Maddalena archipelago off the north coast. This is home to seven islands and numerous small islets, idyllic for exploring on a sunny summer’s day. Only three of these islands are inhabited.
You can easily take a boat trip here from the region of Sassari in the north of Sardinia. You will be amazed by the pink granite island of Maddalena, which is at the heart of the archipelago.
Make sure you don’t forget swimwear and a snorkel for this extraordinary adventure.
With options all year round, this island keeps people coming back for more. Maybe you want to bathe in the turquoise waters or ski high up in the mountains. Whatever you choose, each trip will be sure to bring you a whole new adventure.
And with the option to take the ferry to Sardinia from so many places, why not make this your next European getaway?
Your question answered about the Ferry to Sardinia
How long does the ferry journey to Sardinia take?
Depending on the departure port on the Italian mainland and the destination port in Sardinia. On average, it takes around 4 to 8 hours for daytime sailings and up to 12 hours for overnight crossings.
Do I need to book my ferry ticket in advance?
Sardinia is a popular tourist destination, and ferries can fill up quickly, leaving limited availability for last-minute bookings. By booking early, you can secure your spot and sometimes get better deals on fares.
Can I bring my car on the ferry to Sardinia?
Yes, you can bring your car on the ferry to Sardinia. However, you’ll need to inform the ferry company about your intention to bring a car during the booking process, as there might be limited spaces available for vehicles on each sailing. Additionally, there will be an extra charge for transporting your car on the ferry.
