FerryConnect

Italy → Croatia

Ancona → Zadar

Jadrolinija’s seasonal high-speed line 51 links Ancona with Zadar’s Gaženica port in about four hours, the quickest sea crossing from central Italy to northern Dalmatia. It runs only on selected summer dates.

⏱ About 4 hours🚢 1 operator📅 Summer only, on selected dates; up to five departures a week
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Ancona to Zadar ferry at a glance

The ferry from Ancona to Zadar takes About 4 hours across the Adriatic Sea, operated by Jadrolinija. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: summer only, on selected dates; up to five departures a week.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: jadrolinija.hr · jadrolinija.hr · jadrolinija.hr · How we verify

Return crossing: Zadar to Ancona

Jadrolinija also sails Zadar to Ancona, taking About 4 hours.

Ancona to Zadar ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Summer only, on selected dates, with up to five departures per week (per Jadrolinija’s 2026 line page)

Published periods run from late June/early July to late July, plus early September

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Jadrolinija timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Jadrolinija line 51 timetable. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Ancona and Zadar

📐 85 Nautical Miles
Ancona⇄Zadar
⏱ About 4 hours · 📐 85 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
JadrolinijaAbout 4hJadrolinija catamaran

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

85 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Gaženica port is south-east of Zadar old town and served by city buses

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from AnconaAncona → Split9h – 11h (overnight) · Jadrolinija, SNAVAlso sails from AnconaAncona → DurrësAbout 16h (overnight) · Adria FerriesAlso sails from AnconaPatras → Ancona20h – 23h (overnight, via Igoumenitsa) · Superfast Ferries, ANEK Lines, Minoan LinesAlso sails from AnconaIgoumenitsa → Ancona16h – 21h 30m · Superfast Ferries, Grimaldi LinesAlso sails from AnconaCorfu → AnconaAbout 19h 30m · Grimaldi Lines, Superfast FerriesOnward from ZadarZadar → Preko (Ugljan)25m – 30m (when calling at Ošljak) · Jadrolinija
⚓ Port of Ancona guide⚓ Zadar Gaženica Port guide⛴ All ferries from Ancona⛴ All ferries from Zadar🌊 Adriatic Sea ferries🗺 All ferries in Italy🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Ancona to Zadar?
The crossing typically takes About 4 hours. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Ancona to Zadar ferry sail?
Summer only, on selected dates, with up to five departures per week (per Jadrolinija’s 2026 line page). Published periods run from late June/early July to late July, plus early September. This is the pattern published in the Jadrolinija line 51 timetable (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Ancona to Zadar?
Jadrolinija operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Ancona to Zadar ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Ancona to Zadar ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Ancona to Zadar ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Ancona from Zadar by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 85 nautical miles (roughly 157 km).