Ferries to Elba Island — timetables and prices

Q: Where do ferries to Elba depart from?

All ferries depart from Piombino (Tuscany), the only boarding port from the mainland, and arrive mainly at Portoferraio, as well as at Cavo and Rio Marina.

Online booking

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Enter date, route and vehicle: compare timetables and fares from all companies and book in a few clicks.

Portoferraio ~60 min Cavo ~40 min Rio Marina ~45 min Hydrofoil (passengers) 15-40 min

Booking managed by Misterferry.com (booking partner). Timetables, fares and availability are real-time from the ferry companies.

The companies

Who runs the crossings

Three companies connect Piombino with Elba Island, with different timetables and fares. Compare them directly in the form above.

Moby Lines

Piombino-Portoferraio ferries with large-capacity ships for cars, motorbikes and campervans. One of the island's long-established companies.

Official website

Toremar

Regional public service: besides Portoferraio it also serves Rio Marina and Cavo. Year-round guaranteed crossings.

Official website

Blu Navy

Piombino-Portoferraio connections with competitive fares. Bookings for the 2026 season already open.

Official website

Editorial information cards: ElbaMyLove is not a shipping company. Timetables, fares and availability belong to the individual companies; check and book through the form or the official websites.

Practical guide

What to know before you board

Book in advance

In high season (July-August and bank holidays) car spaces sell out fast: book well ahead for the best time and fare.

Vehicles on board

Cars, motorbikes and campervans travel on almost all crossings. Enter your vehicle's size and plate when booking.

LPG/CNG vehicles

Gas vehicles (LPG/CNG) are subject to SOLAS rules: specific procedures and declarations. Check the company's rules and arrive at the port early.

Pets on board

Pets are generally allowed (on a lead or in a carrier, in dedicated areas). Check the conditions of your chosen company.

Check-in and arrival at the port

Arrive at Piombino port 30-60 minutes early (more with a vehicle in high season) for boarding and checks.

Fares and discounts

There are reduced fares for residents and commuters and seasonal offers. Always compare companies: price and duration may vary.

Important: in high season book car + passage well in advance. Gas vehicles (LPG/CNG) require SOLAS declarations: check with the company beforehand to avoid being denied boarding.

How to get there by sea

The ferry, the easiest way to Elba

Reaching Elba Island is quick and easy thanks to the frequent connections from Piombino Marittima. The main ferry companies – Moby Lines, Toremar and Blu Navy – offer regular routes to the island’s key destinations:

01Portoferraio (about 60 minutes)
02Rio Marina (about 45 minutes)
03Cavo (about 40 minutes)

Fast Travel Options

If you're short on time, choose the Toremar hydrofoil for passenger-only transport: it connects Piombino to Cavo in about 15 minutes and to Portoferraio in about 40.

Accessibility Services

At the Piombino port, assistance services are available for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. You can book this service by calling the toll-free number 800 943 232 or +39 366 775 4353. Alternatively, you can email assistenza@portsecuritypiombino.it to schedule the service within 24 hours. For more information, visit port-abile.it.

Travel Tips

To reach the Piombino port, use your GPS and set Piazzale Premuda as the destination. Plan your trip ahead by selecting the most convenient ferry company and schedule for your needs.

With frequent departures and fast travel options, your journey to Elba Island is the perfect start to an unforgettable vacation.

All ferries carry vehicles (cars, motorbikes, campervans) and in high season there are up to about 24 crossings a day. Besides Portoferraio, some crossings reach Cavo and Rio Marina, handy if you stay on the east coast.

Frequently asked questions

FAQ about ferries to Elba

Where do ferries to Elba depart from?

All ferries depart from Piombino (Tuscany), the only boarding port from the mainland, and arrive mainly at Portoferraio, as well as at Cavo and Rio Marina.

How long is the crossing?

Piombino-Portoferraio takes about 60 minutes by ferry. Cavo is reached in ~40 minutes and Rio Marina in ~45. There is also a passenger-only Toremar hydrofoil: about 15 minutes to Cavo and 40 to Portoferraio.

Can I take my car on the ferry?

Yes, almost all crossings carry cars, motorbikes and campervans. In high season vehicle spaces sell out: it's best to book in advance.

How many crossings are there per day?

In high season there are up to about 24 crossings a day on Piombino-Portoferraio, from early morning until evening. In low season they are reduced but guaranteed all year.

Is it worth booking online?

Yes: booking online lets you compare timetables and fares from all companies, secure your space (especially with a car) and often get the best prices.