Ferry to Sardinia With A Campervan: A Complete Guide
Dreaming of taking your campervan to Sardinia? This guide covers everything from booking your ferry to navigating ports for a smooth adventure!
Have you ever dreamed of exploring the stunning landscapes of Sardinia in the comfort of your own campervan, but felt overwhelmed by the logistics of getting there? If so, you’re definitely not alone! Many of us dream about hitting the road to this beautiful Mediterranean paradise, but the logistics can sometimes feel a bit daunting.
But here’s the good news: taking a ferry to Sardinia with your RV, motorhome, or campervan is not only totally doable, but it’s also an amazing way to discover the island’s hidden gems at your leisure!
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to turn this dream into a reality - from booking your ferry tickets to navigating the ports, and even what you can expect on board.
So get ready for an unforgettable journey to Sardinia, where your campervan opens the door to endless freedom and adventure!
Ferry Services to Sardinia
Great news! There's a good range of ferry companies that run routes to Sardinia, and they make it easy for you to bring your vehicle along. You can find departures from several places in southern Europe.
To make things even simpler, here’s a handy list for you!
- Corsica Ferries from Livorno, Savona (Italy); Toulon, Nice (France)
- Moby Lines from Genoa, Livorno, Piombino, Civitavecchia (Italy)
- Grandi Navi Veloci from Genoa (Italy); Barcelona (Spain)
- Grimaldi Lines from Civitavecchia, Livorno, Naples, Palermo (Italy); Barcelona (Spain)
- Tirrenia from Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples (Italy)
Departure times are super flexible, giving you the option to choose between overnight crossings or relaxing day trips, depending on what works best for you. And don't forget to check out the amenities at each port, too! Some ports offer fantastic free parking and dining options that might just make your choice a bit easier.
When it comes to arriving in Sardinia, you’ve got some great ports to consider: Olbia, Golfo Aranci, Cagliari, and Porto Torres. Figuring out your starting point can really help you decide which route to take for your Sardinian getaway.
If you’re in need of more tips and inspiration for your trip, be sure to swing by my blog post! 👇
Georgina
Booking
Booking a ferry ticket to Sardinia is straightforward. You can book directly with any of the ferry operators, but with so many options available at various departure ports, it’s definitely worth comparing prices.
I like using a third-party service like Direct Ferries, which helps you find options and prices from all operators for your chosen dates. While the prices there can be a tad higher due to their commission, it’s a great way to sniff out the best deal.
I often use Direct Ferries to explore my options and then book directly with the ferry operator.
If you’re planning to travel during the summer, it’s a good idea to book in advance since seats can fill up pretty quickly. Also, if you can, try to travel midweek to dodge the crowds!
Accommodation Types
When booking, you’ll get to choose from a range of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences. Whether you want a reclining seat or a cosy cabin for a bit of extra comfort and privacy, you’ve got choices! Some cabins are basic interior rooms, while others are luxurious suites with lovely sea views.
Arrival At The Port
Make sure to give yourself plenty of time for check-in! Each operator usually specifies when check-in closes (typically about 60 minutes before departure) but during the busy summer months, it can stretch to 120 minutes. Just follow the lanes for your ferry operator until you reach the check-in booth. You won’t even need to leave your vehicle; just hand your booking confirmation to the assistant, and you’ll be given a ticket along with a lane assignment for the ferry.
As you're travelling with a vehicle, it’s helpful to have your driving license, vehicle registration, and insurance details handy. You likely won’t need them, but it's always good to be prepared!
Travelling with a pet? Just make sure you have the necessary health certificates and check the ferry operator’s pet policy in advance.
Boarding the Ferry
When it’s time to board, keep an eye out for the attendants who will guide you onto the ferry and help you park. They’re really good at fitting everyone in, so don’t worry!
Once you’re on board, grab what you need for the short crossing, secure your vehicle, and head for the nearest stairwell to exit the garage. The garages are locked during the trip, so keep that in mind. You won’t be able to return to your vehicle until you reach your destination.
What's It Like On Board?
I have to be honest. Most ferry operators to Sardinia don’t have the best reviews. People often complain about delays, cleanliness, food quality, and furnishings. So, when I took my first ferry trip to Sardinia with Corsica Ferries, I was a bit nervous and had pretty low expectations.
But to my surprise, everything was fine! Sure, the cabin was a bit dated, but for an overnight ferry, it was comfortable and clean. And it was the same when I travelled from Sardinia to Spain with Grimaldi Lines - so I expect all operators to be of a similar standard.
All ferries have enough facilities to make the hours at sea fly by. Some ferries even have gyms and wellness centres.
Dining
A delightful meal aboard Grimaldi Lines
You’ll find plenty of dining options on board, from casual cafes to full-service restaurants serving up delicious Italian and international dishes. Whether you want a quick snack or a leisurely meal with a glass of wine or a nice espresso, there’s something for everyone!
Shopping
Don’t forget about the duty-free shops, where you can snag cosmetics, drinks, clothing, and local treats. It’s perfect if you want to pick up a souvenir or treat yourself a little during your journey.
Pets
If you're bringing a furry friend along, many ferries offer pet-friendly cabins and designated areas for them to exercise. Just a quick heads-up - booking in advance is a good idea, especially during busy seasons. And of course, double-check the specific pet policies to ensure you know what’s required.
The Vibe
From what I’ve experienced, the atmosphere can vary. Some parts of the ferry feel quite calm, such as the a la carte restaurants which tend to be the quietest spots. Breakfast times can get a bit chaotic, and I’ve noticed quite a few passengers catching some Z’s on the couches. Not everyone books a reclining chair or cabin for overnight journeys. And the Italian ferry companies often enjoy playing Italian TV at full volume in the bar area!
Disembarking
If you’re in a cabin, you’ll typically need to check out about an hour before arrival. As you near the port, listen for passenger announcements reminding you to get ready to return to your vehicle. Make your way to the garage as soon as you can! From my experience, the attendants move quickly, so it’s best to be prepared.
Getting Off The Island
Fortunately, the same process applies to getting off the island! Choose your dates, departure and arrival points and pick your ferry. As you've already completed the outbound journey, the inbound will be a breeze.
To Wrap It Up
Getting to Sardinia in your campervan or motorhome can be a breeze if you plan ahead! From booking your ferry to what to expect during check-in and onboard, having a clear understanding of the whole process can really ease any worries and make your trip more enjoyable. With this guide in hand, you'll feel ready to kick off your own Sardinia adventure!
Wondering what to do once you’re there? Check out my 2-week itinerary specially designed for van life on the island 👇
Georgina
Curious about the real experience of touring Sardinia in a campervan? Be sure to read my Truths of Van Life in Sardinia to get all the insights! 👇
Georgina
Thanks so much for reading! I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or any tips you might have—feel free to leave a comment below😄
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