Practical and Logistics Questions
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets to the Gulf of Naples islands?
We recommend booking ferry tickets at least 2-3 days before departure, especially during peak season (June-September) and on weekends. Advance booking guarantees seat availability and helps you avoid long queues at the port. For high-traffic periods like August or holidays, we strongly advise booking at least one week in advance.
Can I bring luggage on ferries to Capri, Ischia, and Procida?
One piece of hand luggage with maximum dimensions of 30x50x20 cm is included free of charge in the ticket price for all connections to the Gulf of Naples islands. Additional or oversized luggage requires a supplement starting from €3.50 per item per journey. We recommend checking the specific requirements of your chosen ferry company when booking.
What happens if I miss my booked ferry?
If you fail to present yourself at departure time, you’ll need to purchase a new ticket for the next available sailing. No refunds or free modifications are provided after the booked ferry has departed. For this reason, it’s essential to arrive at the port at least 15 minutes before departure.
Do ferries to the islands operate in bad weather?
Adverse weather and sea conditions can cause cancellations or delays of maritime connections. The final decision always rests with the ship’s captain, who evaluates navigation safety. In case of bad weather, we recommend checking sailing status directly with the ferry company or through our customer service before heading to the port.
Can I modify or cancel my ferry booking?
Modification and cancellation conditions vary by ferry company. Generally, it’s possible to modify or cancel bookings within 24-48 hours before departure, sometimes with penalty fees applied. We recommend reading the terms and conditions carefully when purchasing and contacting our customer service for assistance with modifications.
Do I need to arrive early at the port for boarding?
Yes, you must present yourself at the port at least 15 minutes before the departure time shown on your ticket. During peak season and for popular destinations like Capri, we recommend arriving 20-30 minutes early to avoid stress and ensure smooth boarding. Remember to bring valid identification.
Comparisons and Choices for Gulf of Naples Island Ferries
What’s the difference between ferry and hydrofoil for reaching the islands?
Hydrofoil:
- Faster: reaches islands in approximately half the time of traditional ferries
- Passengers only: doesn’t transport vehicles, ideal for day trips
- Weather sensitive: may be canceled in rough sea conditions
- Generally higher price but reduced travel time
Traditional Ferry:
- More stable: operates even in less favorable weather conditions
- Some ferries transport vehicles: possibility to board cars and motorcycles on specific routes and companies
- More economical: generally lower fares compared to hydrofoils
- Greater comfort: larger spaces, onboard services, panoramic decks
Which island to choose between Capri, Ischia, and Procida for a day trip?
For day trips:
- Capri: perfect for one day, with Piazzetta, Faraglioni, Blue Grotto, and Anacapri easily visitable
- Procida: ideal for day trips thanks to its compact size and authentic atmosphere
For longer stays:
- Ischia: recommended to stay at least 2-3 days to fully appreciate the thermal spas, beaches, and different island communities. Its larger size and variety of attractions require more time for adequate exploration.
Is it better to depart from Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno for Capri?
Naples:
- Highest number of daily sailings and frequency
- Connections with all types of vessels (ferries and hydrofoils)
- Frequent departures year-round
Sorrento:
- Numerous daily connections, especially during peak season
- Scenic journey along the Sorrento Peninsula
- Convenient for those staying on the Amalfi Coast
Salerno:
- Fewer daily sailings compared to Naples and Sorrento
- Scenic journey along the Amalfi Coast
- Advantageous for those staying in southern Campania
- More readily available parking
Is it better to buy round-trip or separate tickets?
We strongly recommend purchasing round-trip tickets for several reasons:
- Guaranteed seat: avoids the risk of being without a return ticket
- Time saving: no queues at the port for return ticket purchase
- Often more economical: many companies offer discounted round-trip fares
- Greater peace of mind: allows you to enjoy your island day without logistical worries
- Schedule flexibility: possibility to choose different return times based on your plans
Costs and Convenience of Gulf of Naples Island Ferries
How much does a ferry ticket to Capri and Ischia cost?
Capri ferry prices:
- Round-trip starting from €50.00 per person (prices vary by company, season, and vessel type)
- Hydrofoils: generally 20-30% higher fares than traditional ferries
Ischia ferry prices:
- Round-trip starting from €40.00 per person (prices vary by company, season, and vessel type)
- Procida: similar fares to Ischia
Indicated prices are approximate and may vary based on availability, ferry company, and time of year.
Are there discounts for children, groups, or families on ferries?
Available discounts:
- Children: approximately 20% discount on adult ticket price (age and conditions vary by company)
- Groups: approximately 20% discount for groups of at least 10 people (verify specific conditions)
- Families: currently no specific family discounts are available
Free travel for young children: children under 4 generally travel free without seat allocation.
Do ferry prices change seasonally?
Yes, prices vary seasonally:
- Peak season (April 1 – October 31): slight increases compared to winter period
- Low season (November – March): more convenient fares
- Price peaks: August and summer weekends have the highest prices
- Best period for savings: November-March, with services still guaranteed
Is it cheaper to book online or buy at the port?
Port purchase:
- Slightly lower prices without online booking commissions
- High risk of not finding availability during peak season, weekends, and holidays
- Long queues at ticket offices, especially during busy periods
Online booking (recommended):
- Guaranteed seat even during the busiest periods
- No waiting at the port
- Fixed and transparent prices with ability to compare different companies
- Flexibility in choosing schedules and vessel types
Our recommendation: always book online to avoid the risk of being without a ticket, especially from May to October and on weekends.
Travel Experience on Gulf of Naples Ferries
How long does the ferry journey from Naples to Capri and Ischia take?
Connection duration from Naples:
- Capri: approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by traditional ferry, 50 minutes by hydrofoil
- Ischia: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by traditional ferry, 50 minutes by hydrofoil
- Procida: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by traditional ferry, 40 minutes by hydrofoil
From other ports:
- Sorrento-Capri: 20-30 minutes
- Salerno-Capri: 45-60 minutes (depending on vessel type)
Times may vary slightly based on sea conditions and vessel type.
What can you see during navigation to the islands?
Spectacular views during the journey:
Departing from Naples:
- View of Vesuvius dominating the Gulf of Naples
- Naples skyline with waterfront and hillside neighborhoods
- Castel dell’Ovo and Castel Nuovo from sea perspective
- Posillipo coast with historic villas overlooking the sea
Departing from Sorrento:
- Sorrento Peninsula with dramatic coastal cliffs
- Sorrento and Meta coastline with villas and hotels facing the gulf
- Punta Campanella at the peninsula’s tip
- Close-up views of Capri during approach
Departing from Salerno:
- Amalfi Coast viewed from the sea with colorful villages
- Positano, Amalfi, and Atrani climbing rocky slopes
- Lattari Mountains framing the coastline
- Complete Gulf of Salerno panorama
During all journeys:
- Island profiles gradually emerging from the waters
- Capri’s Faraglioni rocks becoming visible during approach
- Crystal-clear Tyrrhenian waters with azure reflections
Navigation itself becomes an integral part of the tourist experience, with unique photographic panoramas that change based on departure port.
Is it possible to visit multiple islands in one day?
Yes, it’s possible to visit multiple destinations in a single day thanks to numerous connections between Gulf of Naples islands.
Available multi-island tours:
- Capri + Sorrento + Coast: perfect combination of glamour and relaxation
- Ischia + Procida: nature and authenticity in one day
Discover all available multi-destination tours and excursions in our dedicated section.
What are the best times to avoid crowds?
For a more peaceful experience:
Departure:
- Early morning (7:00-8:30): less crowding on ferries and islands
- Avoid 9:30-11:00 departures: peak time for day trips
Return:
- Early afternoon (1:00-3:00 PM): ideal for avoiding mass returns
- Avoid 5:00-7:00 PM: busiest time for evening returns
Recommended days:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: lower attendance than weekends
- Avoid July-August weekends: period of maximum crowds
Best seasons for fewer crowds: May-June and September-October offer perfect balance between good weather and reduced crowding.
Specific Information for Each Gulf of Naples Island
How much time is needed to visit Capri in one day?
A complete Capri visit requires 5-6 hours, allowing for:
Recommended program:
- Capri Piazzetta and historic center (1 hour)
- Via Camerelle for shopping (30 minutes)
- Gardens of Augustus with Faraglioni views (45 minutes)
- Anacapri and Villa San Michele (1.5-2 hours)
- Panoramic lunch at an island restaurant (1 hour)
- Blue Grotto or beach relaxation (1 hour)
Intensive option: with 8-10 hours you can add Monte Solaro (chairlift) and more time for shopping and relaxation.
What should you absolutely not miss on Ischia besides the thermal spas?
Must-see Green Island attractions:
Historical and cultural sites:
- Aragonese Castle: medieval fortress connected by stone bridge
- La Mortella Gardens: botanical garden with exotic plants and concerts
- Sanctuary of Soccorso (Forio): panoramic seaside church
Natural beauty:
- Monte Epomeo: island’s highest point with 360° views
- Sant’Angelo: authentic and picturesque fishing village
- Sorgeto Bay: natural thermal springs by the sea
- Maronti Beach: longest island beach with volcanic sand
Each attraction deserves at least half a day, which is why Ischia is ideal for 2-3 day stays.
Is Procida suitable for trips with children?
Yes, Procida is perfect for families with children for several reasons:
Family advantages:
- Small island easily navigable even with strollers
- Large sandy beaches ideal for young children (Pozzo Vecchio, Chiaiolella)
- Short journey: only 35-40 minutes from Naples, perfect for children
- Less crowded even during peak season, quieter and safer
- More affordable prices for restaurants and beach services
- Authentic atmosphere without tourist chaos of other islands
- Calm and transparent waters in protected bays
Marina Grande with its colorful houses is also very photogenic and fascinating for children.
Is it possible to visit the Blue Grotto year-round?
The Blue Grotto has variable seasonal openings:
Closure period:
- Generally closed during winter months (November-March)
- Possible occasional opening on favorable weather days with calm seas
Opening period:
- April 1 to October 31: regularly open
- Required conditions: calm sea, absence of strong winds, favorable weather conditions
Typical hours (summer season):
- Approximately 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM
- Immediate closure in case of worsening sea conditions
Important advice: always verify Blue Grotto opening before departure, as it can close even during peak season for safety reasons related to sea conditions.
Services and Technical Information on Island Ferries
Is there WiFi on ferries to the Gulf of Naples islands?
Limited WiFi availability:
- Most vessels don’t have free WiFi
- Some modern units might offer WiFi connection, but often with unstable or intermittent signal
- During navigation, mobile network coverage can be variable
Practical tip: consider the journey as a digital detox opportunity to fully enjoy the panoramas and navigation experience.
Can I buy food and drinks on board ferries?
Yes, catering services are always available:
- All ferries and hydrofoils have internal bars
- Available menu: coffee, hot and cold beverages, snacks, sandwiches, and baked goods
- Local specialties: often available typical Campanian products
- Continuous service throughout navigation
Tip: for longer journeys or with children, it’s still possible to bring personal food and beverages.
Are ferries accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, all ferries offer services for people with reduced mobility:
- PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) service available on all vessels
- Facilitated access with ramps and dedicated pathways
- Reserved spaces for wheelchairs
- Specialized assistance from crew members
How to book:
- Contact operators when booking to request assistance
- Advance booking recommended to guarantee service
- Free service included in ticket price
Can I bring bicycles on ferries?
Yes, bicycle transport is possible with supplement:
- Additional cost starting from €6.00 per bicycle per journey
- Available on traditional ferries (not always on hydrofoils)
- Dedicated spaces for safe bicycle transport
- Booking recommended especially during peak season
Conditions:
- Verify availability with specific company
- Some vessels might have space limitations
- Electric bicycles: may be subject to specific regulations
Ideal for: exploring islands eco-sustainably, especially Procida and some less steep areas of Ischia.
Seasonal Planning for Gulf of Naples Islands
What’s the best period to visit the Gulf of Naples islands?
The ideal period runs from spring to autumn, but each season has advantages:
Spring (April-June):
- Pleasant temperatures (18-25°C) and fewer crowds
- Lush flowering of gardens and vegetation
- Lower prices compared to summer
- Still cool sea but perfect climate for excursions
Summer (July-September):
- Warm temperatures (25-30°C) ideal for sea and beaches
- Maximum service offerings and open attractions
- Active nightlife especially on Capri
- Maximum crowding and higher prices
Autumn (October-November):
- Mild climate and sea still warm from summer months
- Lower tourist attendance and more relaxed atmosphere
- Advantageous prices for accommodations and services
- Autumn colors making islands even more suggestive
Winter: quieter period, ideal for Ischia thermal spas and discovering islands’ authentic soul.
Do ferries to the islands operate year-round or only in summer?
Maritime connections are active year-round, always guaranteeing island connections:
Winter service (November-March):
- Reduced but regular connections
- Priority to main routes Naples-Capri, Naples-Ischia, Naples-Procida
- Schedules adapted to residents’ needs and winter tourism
Summer service (April-October):
- Maximum frequency with sailings every 30-60 minutes during peak hours
- All routes active including direct inter-island connections
- Extended hours with first departures at 6:30 AM and last at 8:00 PM
How do ferry schedules change between high and low season?
Significant frequency differences:
High season (May-September):
- Approximately double the sailings compared to winter period
- Frequent departures: every 30-60 minutes during peak hours
- Extended hours: from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM approximately
- Additional connections between islands and secondary ports
- Special services for events and holidays
Low season (October-April):
- Reduced frequency but sufficient for tourist needs
- Concentrated hours: during main time slots (morning-evening)
- Focus on main connections from Naples, Sorrento, and Salerno ports
- Possible variations due to weather conditions
Transition periods (April and October):
- Gradual service increase toward summer
- Progressive return to winter schedules
Practical advice: always check updated schedules on our website, especially during seasonal changes when companies adjust services to tourist demand.