How long is the ferry from Marseille to Bastia?

The conventional overnight crossing takes around 10 hours. Most services depart in the evening and arrive the following morning.

Which operators run the Marseille–Bastia ferry?

Corsica Linea and La Méridionale both operate this route under the public service contract between Marseille and Corsica.

Can I take my car on the Marseille–Bastia ferry?

Yes. Both operators carry cars, motorcycles and campervans. Book vehicle space well in advance for July and August travel.

Marseille to Bastia Ferry

Marseille → Bastia

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Conventional crossing: ~10 h overnight
Frequency: Daily in summer (Apr–Sep); several times weekly Oct–Mar
Carries cars: Yes (on the car ferry)

Corsica LineaLa Méridionale

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 to Bastia depart from Marseille's Gare Maritime de la Joliette, the large ferry terminal on the north side of the Vieux-Port waterfront. The terminal is well signposted from the autoroute and has car-loading lanes that open a couple of hours before departure. You arrive at Bastia on the north-east coast of Corsica, a short walk from the old town.

The crossing: overnight by conventional ferry

This is a classic overnight crossing — roughly 10 hours — served by large ro-pax vessels rather than fast catamarans. That means a comfortable, stable crossing with options for private cabins, reclining seats and on-board restaurants. Most departures leave Marseille in the evening and arrive in Bastia the following morning, so you lose no daytime on the road.

Operators

Corsica Linea (formerly SNCM) and La Méridionale share the Marseille–Corsica public service routes under a government concession, keeping year-round connectivity even in the off-season. Both operate modern ro-pax ferries with car decks, cabins, bar and catering.

Booking and seasonality

Frequency increases from daily to potentially multiple daily sailings at the height of summer (July–August). This is also when car deck space is tightest — book vehicle places as far ahead as possible. Off-season (October to March), services drop to several weekly departures but remain reliable thanks to the public service contract. Cabin upgrades are worth considering for the overnight crossing if you want to arrive rested.

Ports & terminals

BastiaView on map →

Frequently asked questions

How long is the ferry from Marseille to Bastia?: The conventional overnight crossing takes around 10 hours. Most services depart in the evening and arrive the following morning.
Which operators run the Marseille–Bastia ferry?: Corsica Linea and La Méridionale both operate this route under the public service contract between Marseille and Corsica.
Can I take my car on the Marseille–Bastia ferry?: Yes. Both operators carry cars, motorcycles and campervans. Book vehicle space well in advance for July and August travel.