An unforgettable vacation to Elba Island is waiting for you! Find out all the essential travel details now, from the fastest routes to the most convenient schedules to the best discounts on ferries to Elba that will save you a bundle.
Are you ready to dive in? Keep reading for all the useful information and start planning a perfect trip to the island of your dreams!
Ferry schedules to Elba vary throughout the year. In high season, from June to September, ferries depart frequently, every 30-60 minutes from early morning until late evening. In the off-season, departures are less frequent, with 1-2 hour intervals between ferries. To choose the most suitable Elba ferry time, we recommend leaving early in the morning to avoid queues and make the most of your day on the island. Booking in advance guarantees you cheaper ferry times to Elba and greater availability, especially during peak periods. Using Ferryscanner you can easily check the updated schedules of all ferry companies. We recommend that you do this in advance to avoid inconvenience and ensure a stress-free trip.
Ferry prices to Elba depend on the season and the specific ferry company you choose to travel with. During the high season, from June to September, prices are generally higher due to increased demand, while cheaper fares can be found in the low season. Each company applies different pricing policies, so comparing options on our platform can help you save money.
In addition to the cost of the passenger ticket, consider additional costs for transporting vehicles: cars, motorcycles, or bicycles carry a surcharge that varies by vehicle size and company. Transporting pets can also incur extra charges, so check the specific rates for your four-legged friends. Booking in advance allows you to find the best deals and get the best ferry prices to Elba.
Elba is home to several main ports that serve as access points for arriving and departing travelers. Here is a description of the most important ports on the island:
Portoferraio is the main port on Elba Island and the largest one on the island. Located on the island’s north coast, this port welcomes most ferries to Elba from Piombino and other destinations. The port is well-equipped with services for travelers, including stores, restaurants, and tourist information points. Portoferraio is also an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s many historical and cultural attractions, such as the Villa dei Mulini and the Medici Fortress. Due to the central location, it is easy to reach other places on the island from here.
Located on the east coast of the island, the port of Rio Marina is another important access point to Elba. Although smaller than Portoferraio, it offers regular connections to Piombino, especially during the summer months. The port of Rio Marina is known for its picturesque beauty, surrounded by hills rich in iron ore that have historically fueled the local economy. The village itself is charming, with narrow alleys, colorful houses, and a quaint atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
Cavo is located on the northeastern tip of Elba and is the closest port to the mainland. This makes it a popular choice for travelers who want to take a quick and convenient trip. The port of Cavo offers frequent connections to Piombino, especially in high season, making it an ideal access point for ferries to Elba Island. Despite its small size, Cavo is a charming place with beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and a pleasant small-town atmosphere. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the northern part of the island.
Elba Island is easily accessible with several sea routes departing from major port cities in Italy and beyond. Each route offers unique travel options in terms of duration, frequency, and cost, giving you maximum flexibility and convenience. Below you will find the most popular ferry routes to Elba, with detailed information about each one. Choose the route that best suits your needs and get ready for an unforgettable experience:
The Piombino-Elba route is an ideal choice for those seeking speed and convenience. It is the busiest and shortest, with ferries to Elba from Piombino departing regularly throughout the year. The trip takes only 30-60 minutes, depending on the ferry company, allowing you to reach the island quickly and without stress.
Piombino is easily accessible by both car and train, making this option particularly convenient for travelers from all over Italy. During the peak season, departures are very frequent, with ferries every 30-60 minutes, giving you maximum flexibility in planning your trip. Choose Piombino-Elba ferries for a comfortable and fast trip to the island of your dreams!
Here are the main ferries to Elba from Piombino:
The Piombino-Portoferraio route is served by companies such as Moby, Toremar, and Blu Navy. The trip takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the company chosen. Ticket prices generally range between €22 and €35* per person, depending on the season and type of accommodation. This connection is the most popular and frequent way to reach Elba Island, with regular departures throughout the year and increased frequency in the summer months.
*Prices may vary by day, ferry company, and type of seat chosen for travel.
The Piombino-Cavo route is covered by companies such as Toremar and Moby. The trip takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the company chosen. Ticket prices generally range between €19.87 and €25* per person, depending on the season and type of accommodation. This route is particularly convenient for travelers seeking a quick and convenient transfer to the northeastern tip of Elba Island. Departures are frequent, especially during the peak season, ensuring easy accessibility to the island.
*Prices may vary by day, ferry company, and type of seat chosen for travel.
The Piombino-Rio Marina route is covered by companies such as Toremar and Moby. The trip takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, depending on sea conditions and the company chosen. Ticket prices generally range between €17.36 and €30* per person, depending on the season and type of accommodation. This route offers a quick and convenient connection to the east coast of Elba Island, with frequent departures throughout the year, increasing in high season to meet the increased demand of travelers.
*Prices may vary by day, ferry company, and type of seat chosen for travel.
The Elba-Corsica route is the perfect option for those wishing to explore two of the most fascinating islands in the Mediterranean. Several companies offer regular connections, making it easy and convenient to travel between Elba Island and Corsica. The trip takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the shipping company and sea conditions. This route allows travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich cultures of both islands without stress. Ticket prices generally start from €19 per person. With frequent departures, especially during the peak season, it is easy to plan a day trip or longer stay in Corsica while retaining the flexibility to return to Elba when desired. Currently, there is a direct connection from Bastia, Corsica, to Portoferraio, which is a port on Elba Island.
*Prices may vary by day, ferry company, and type of seat chosen for travel.
The island of Elba is served by several ferry companies that offer numerous ferries to Elba, providing frequent and reliable connections to the mainland. Here are the main companies:
With these companies, you are sure to find ferries to Elba Island that meet every need, making your trip enjoyable and uncomplicated. Choose your favorite company and start your adventure to enchanting Elba!
If you’re looking to save money on your trip, don’t miss the many Elba ferry discounts available. Several ferry companies offer permanent discounts for families, groups, residents and the over-65s. In addition, you can find ferry deals to Elba Island throughout the year, especially in the low season and for early bookings. Some promotions also include free transportation for children or discounts on vehicles. We recommend that you check this section regularly, as we will continually update you with the latest available offers. Don’t miss the chance to travel to Elba while saving money and take advantage of the best promotions for an unforgettable trip!
Traveling to Elba Island by ferry offers many advantages:
Traveling by ferry to Elba Island means immersing yourself in an experience that combines comfort, convenience, and unique scenic beauty.
Elba Island has natural wonders, enchanting beaches, and historic attractions. Traveling there by ferry is the best way to start your adventure, providing comfort and flexibility. With numerous companies and routes available, you can choose the option that best suits your needs and budget.
There are plenty of cheap ferries to Elba. Use Ferryscanner to find all the best deals and most convenient routes. Your adventure on Elba Island is about to begin!