Day vs. Night Ferries: Which Crossing Is Right for You?
Picture this: waking up well-rested and ready to explore, without losing a minute of your vacation. Or enjoying the sunshine and sea breeze while sailing across the Mediterranean, coffee in hand and nothing to do but relax.
Traveling by ferry offers two very different but equally appealing experiences: overnight crossings, perfect for saving time while you sleep, and daytime crossings, ideal for soaking in the views and enjoying life onboard.
So, which should you choose? Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of both.
Night Ferries: Travel While You Sleep
Night ferries are a smart choice for longer routes like those from mainland Italy to Sardinia, Sicily, or even North Africa (Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria).
The biggest advantage? You cover the distance while you sleep, arriving at your destination without losing precious daylight hours. Cabins are available in various categories, from budget-friendly interiors to spacious sea-view suites. Most companies now also offer pet-friendly cabins, providing added comfort for passengers traveling with their furry companions.
Another benefit: you save on a night in a hotel. While cabins cost extra, many travelers choose more affordable options like reclining seats or deck passage.
Looking for even more convenience? Some ferry companies offer early boarding packages like Corsica Ferries’ Nautel and Moby’s Moby Night. These allow you to board the evening before departure and sleep onboard, avoiding early-morning travel stress.
• Nautel is available on the Livorno–Bastia route and gives you immediate access to onboard amenities like bars and restaurants.
• Moby Night, also on that route, offers special deals on double and quad cabins, with breakfast included.
Onboard, you'll find plenty of amenities: restaurants, bars, lounges, shops, and on newer ships, even spas and live entertainment. Enjoy dinner onboard before settling into your cabin for a peaceful night at sea.
What to keep in mind:
Night ferries often arrive early in the morning, and in many cases, you’ll need to vacate your cabin before arrival to allow time for cleaning. This can cut your rest a bit short.
Day Ferries: Enjoy the Views, Embrace the Journey
Daytime crossings turn the journey into an experience in itself. You can relax on deck, take in beautiful coastal views, and enjoy the open sea, especially on sunny days.
Onboard, the atmosphere is lively and social, with:
• Shops
• Cafés and both self-service and à la carte restaurants
• Bars and lounges
• Children’s play areas
Some ferries even feature pools and sundecks, perfect for making the most of your time onboard.
That said, longer daytime sailings can feel tiring, especially if you’re traveling with children or can’t rest comfortably onboard. And if you have a long drive ahead after disembarking, a full day at sea might leave you more fatigued than a night crossing would.
Looking to Save? Day Crossings Might Be the Answer
One major advantage of daytime travel is cost.
• Cabins are often up to 40% cheaper than on night crossings
• If you choose deck passage, you could save up to 60% compared to evening departures
It’s a great option for travelers who want to cut costs without sacrificing comfort or the ferry experience.
Still unsure? Think about your travel goals, rest and efficiency or scenic enjoyment and relaxation, and let that guide your choice. Either way, the ferry makes getting there part of the adventure.
