Civitavecchia to Cagliari Ferry
Civitavecchia → Cagliari
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- Conventional crossing
- ~13 h overnight
- Frequency
- Several sailings per week year-round, near-daily in summer
- Carries cars
- Yes (on the car ferry)
Crossing times and frequency are typical ranges and vary by season and operator. Check the operator or Direct Ferries for current sailings before booking.
Where it leaves from
Ferries from Rome to Sardinia sail from Civitavecchia, the port city 80 km north-west of the capital. The ferry terminal is a short walk from the train station, and direct trains from Roma Termini and Roma Ostiense take roughly 1 hour 20 minutes — making this the most practical mainland departure point for travellers from Rome and central Italy. You arrive in Cagliari's port at the southern tip of Sardinia.
The overnight crossing
This is a classic Italian overnight ferry run. Most sailings depart in the evening and complete the roughly 13-hour crossing by early morning, so you arrive in Cagliari ready to start exploring the island without losing a day to travel. The route crosses the Tyrrhenian Sea and, in typical conditions, the sailing is calm and comfortable.
Operators and on-board facilities
Tirrenia is the long-established Sardinia specialist and runs the most frequent service on this corridor. Grimaldi Lines operates large ro-ro ships suited to vehicles of all sizes. Both carriers offer restaurants, cafés and bars on board, and a range of cabin types from basic reclining seats through to private en-suite cabins — booking a cabin makes the overnight crossing considerably more comfortable.
Booking tips
This is one of Sardinia's busiest routes, particularly in July and August when demand from mainland Italy peaks. Book several weeks ahead for summer sailings, and reserve car space early — vehicle decks fill faster than passenger berths. Shoulder-season crossings in May–June and September typically have more availability and noticeably lower fares.
Ports & terminals
- CagliariView on map →
Port guides
Related ferry routes
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the ferry from Civitavecchia to Cagliari?
- The overnight crossing takes around 13 hours. You typically board in the evening and arrive in Cagliari the following morning.
- Can I take a car on the Civitavecchia–Cagliari ferry?
- Yes — Tirrenia and Grimaldi both carry cars, motorcycles and campervans. Book vehicle space well ahead for summer sailings as decks fill quickly.
- Which port is Civitavecchia close to?
- Civitavecchia is the main port of Rome, about 80 km north-west of the city centre. It is served by direct trains from Roma Termini and Roma Ostiense taking roughly 1 hour 20 minutes.