How to get to Croatia by ferry: this is my practical guide.
Find out how to easily reach Croatia from Italy with the Ancona-Split ferry.
In this guide I will tell you about my experience and everything you should know to organize this comfortable and scenic trip across the Adriatic Sea.

If you’re thinking of visiting Croatia, one of the most convenient and charming options to get there is by ferry.

A trip from Ancona to Split, crossing the Adriatic Sea, is the perfect opportunity for a relaxing and scenic experience, without hurry and with all the time to enjoy the sea. The route is operated by several ferry companies that offer a comfortable and affordable service.

In this article, I’ll share every detail of the journey based on my experience, and I’m sure you’ll be eager to book your ticket and set sail towards this adventure!

How to get to Croatia by ferry is an ideal way to start your Croatian journey.

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How to get to Croatia by ferry from Ancona Port

Ancona Port is truly a crossroads of travelers, and the excitement of departure is always in the air. I arrived a little early to enjoy some free time in the city before boarding. It’s the perfect way to prepare for the journey. Additionally, it’s recommended to arrive a little before the actual departure to check in for the ferry.

The check-in process is quite simple, but you need to queue, and depending on the ferry company, you may be asked to arrive at the boarding area well in advance. Boarding the ferry feels like entering a small floating world.

The ship is modern and welcoming, offering various options to suit every type of traveler. You can choose a comfortable private cabin (recommended for those seeking a restful night) or opt for a seat, ideal if you have a smaller budget but still want to travel comfortably.

Once aboard, I explored the ship a little: there was a bar/restaurant where you can sip a drink or enjoy a snack, several decks for walking around, and some areas where you can sit and take a nap.

One of the best moments aboard was definitely sitting on the outer deck with a coffee in hand, watching the Italian coast slowly fade away… It’s one of those moments when you realize that the journey isn’t just about the destination, but also the path that takes you there

The Night Crossing: Relax Under the Stars

The ferry departs from Ancona in the evening and crosses the Adriatic Sea during the night, arriving in Split in the morning. This means you have the entire night to relax and enjoy the crossing.

If you love tranquility, I recommend heading to the deck and gazing at the stars: the sky over the open sea is incredibly clear, and the sense of peace and calm is unique. But don’t forget to put on a hoodie, as even in the middle of summer, the temperature out on the open sea can be quite low.

During the trip, I met other travelers heading to Croatia, and it’s always nice to exchange stories and travel tips with people who share your same passion for adventure.

Arrival in Split: A New Day Begins

The next morning, I was woken up early by the seagulls’ calls and the sight of the Croatian coastline on the horizon.

Arriving in Split is exciting: as you approach the port, you can already spot parts of Diocletian’s Palace, one of the city’s main attractions.

The ferry docks just a few hundred meters from the historic center of Split, making it really easy to start exploring right away. Split welcomes you with its unique charm: the palm trees lining the promenade, the cafes opening, and the sea sparkling under the morning sun… a truly beautiful scene, and I couldn’t wait to start my Croatian adventure.

After getting off the ferry, I took a short walk from the port and had breakfast at one of the cafés along the Riva, the promenade in Split, enjoying the view of the boats coming and going and the city waking up.

Why choose the ferry to Croatia?

Traveling by ferry is, in my opinion, a winning choice for several reasons. First, the comfort: you can travel overnight, saving an entire day and arriving well-rested and ready to explore. The cabins are quite comfortable and quiet, making the overnight crossing a true moment of relaxation.

Another advantage is the price: ferry tickets are often more affordable compared to other transportation options, especially if you book in advance. Additionally, bringing your own car on board is simple and convenient, giving you the freedom to explore Croatia at your own pace once you arrive at your destination.

Lastly, the view: the ferry offers a truly spectacular scenic journey that you would never fully appreciate if you chose to fly. While sailing, you have all the time to relax, enjoy the sea, and mentally prepare for the adventure ahead!

Useful travel tips

Ferries can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. By booking in advance, you’ll secure a cabin or a comfortable seat.

I discovered Traghettilines.it on this occasion and I recommend you try it. Traghetti Lines is a search engine dedicated to ferry bookings, allowing you to compare prices, schedules, and availability of the main ferry companies in real time. Thanks to its simple and intuitive interface, you can find and book the ferry that best suits your needs in just a few clicks, for both domestic and international routes.

Try it yourself right here:

Crossing the Adriatic Sea under a starry sky and waking up the next morning to the stunning Croatian coast is an experience that makes every minute of the journey worthwhile. If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, don’t hesitate to choose this option: comfortable, affordable, and full of charm. Pack your bags and let the sea guide you towards new adventures!

Booking the ticket was super easy thanks to Traghetti Lines, a search engine that allows you to compare all available ferry companies. I quickly found the most convenient option, saving both time and money!

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