Elba ferry timetable
Pick a date, a direction and a port to see the next sailings with operator and crossing time. Several operators run in parallel to Portoferraio; Cavo and Rio Marina are served by Toremar.
All times without guarantee. The operator's departure time and your booking confirmation are binding. Port Authority of Piombino →
Choosing a port
Which arrival port suits your destination?
Which arrival port suits your destination?
All three routes leave from Piombino but land in different corners of the island. Portoferraio is on the north coast and is the main arrival port - the right choice for the centre, the west and anyone who needs the densest service.
Cavo on the north-eastern tip is the shortest crossing and handy if you are staying in the north-east. Rio Marina on the east coast takes about 45 minutes and puts you close to Rio nell'Elba and Porto Azzurro. Toremar serves both, and both have fewer departures than Portoferraio.
So compare more than the time on the water: the drive from Portoferraio to Rio Marina is a good half hour on island roads.
Season
When do the ferries to Elba run?
All three routes from Piombino run year-round, but not at the same frequency. In summer several operators sail to Portoferraio in parallel, Blu Navy states up to 24 departures a day at peak times, and Corsica Ferries is added from May to September. In winter Toremar, Moby and Blu Navy carry the route at a thinner rhythm. Cavo and Rio Marina have fewer departures than Portoferraio all year round.
High season: book vehicles early
From July to early September vehicle spaces on popular sailings go first. Book the outbound and return legs together as soon as your dates are fixed.
May, June and September
In the shoulder months the main route still runs frequently but the ships are emptier. Corsica Ferries is part of the offer during this window.
A thinner winter service
From November to March fewer ships sail, and the secondary ports of Cavo and Rio Marina drop markedly. Check the last departure of the day before you plan.
Weather is the operator's call
In strong wind a sailing can be cancelled or a fast craft replaced by a conventional ferry. The operator decides departure by departure.
FAQ timetable
Frequently asked questions
How to read the Elba ferry timetable.
How current is the timetable?+
Departures come live from the operators’ booking systems and change with the operating period. Check your sailing again on the day you travel, particularly the last departure of the day.
Do all sailings take vehicles?+
Yes, all three routes from Piombino are vehicle ferries. Vehicles have longer check-in deadlines than foot passengers; the details are in the car ferry guide.
How early must I be at the port?+
The operator decides. Toremar requires at least 30 minutes before departure, Moby in summer one hour without and 90 minutes with a vehicle, Blu Navy 15 and 30 minutes respectively. What counts is the deadline on your ticket.
What happens if a sailing is cancelled?+
In strong wind an operator can cancel a sailing or swap the vessel. Whether you are rebooked or refunded depends on the fare and the operator - Blu Navy, for instance, accepts changes up to the check-in limit. Contact the operator or whoever sold you the ticket.
Why does Portoferraio have more departures?+
Several operators serve Portoferraio at a dense rhythm. Cavo and Rio Marina are run by Toremar alone and with fewer sailings - worth checking for your specific day before you pick accommodation on that side.