FerryConnect

Italy

Palermo → Ustica

Siremar’s ferry from Palermo to Ustica, a small volcanic island surrounded by Italy’s first marine reserve. It is a popular diving and snorkelling destination.

⏱ 2h 40m – 2h 45m🚢 1 operator📅 Daily ferry in summer, usually leaving Palermo at 08:30🚗 Vehicles accepted

Palermo to Ustica ferry at a glance

The ferry from Palermo to Ustica takes 2h 40m – 2h 45m across the Tyrrhenian Sea, operated by Siremar (Caronte & Tourist Isole Minori). Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: daily ferry in summer, usually leaving Palermo at 08:30.

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: cdn.carontetourist.it · How we verify

Return crossing: Ustica to Palermo

Siremar (Caronte & Tourist Isole Minori) also sails Ustica to Palermo, taking 2h 40m – 2h 45m. The ferry leaves Ustica at 16:00 and reaches Palermo at 18:45, so a day trip is possible.

Palermo to Ustica ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Summer 2026: daily at 08:30 from Palermo, arriving at Cala Santa Maria at about 11:10–11:15

Published departure times

  • 08:30

Return: The ferry leaves Ustica at 16:00 and reaches Palermo at 18:45, so a day trip is possible.

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

Official Siremar (Caronte & Tourist Isole Minori) timetable →

Source: Siremar Ustica timetable PDF. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Palermo and Ustica

📐 36 Nautical Miles
Palermo⇄Ustica
⏱ 2h 40m – 2h 45m · 📐 36 nm
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Ready to cross from Palermo to Ustica?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Siremar (Caronte & Tourist Isole Minori)2h 40m – 2h 45mSibilla

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

36 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Ferries arrive at Cala Santa Maria; some sailings also call at Cala Cimitero

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Palermo to Ustica?
The crossing typically takes 2h 40m – 2h 45m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Palermo to Ustica ferry sail?
Summer 2026: daily at 08:30 from Palermo, arriving at Cala Santa Maria at about 11:10–11:15. This is the pattern published in the Siremar Ustica timetable PDF (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Palermo to Ustica?
Siremar (Caronte & Tourist Isole Minori) operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Palermo to Ustica ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Palermo to Ustica 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 Palermo to Ustica ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Palermo from Ustica by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 36 nautical miles (roughly 67 km).