The Civitavecchia–Cagliari route is for those aiming for the south of Sardinia: Villasimius, Chia, Pula, the Sulcis. It is the only direct and regular connection between the mainland and the Sardinian capital, landing literally in the city center: Cagliari's port is a ten-minute walk from via Roma.
Duration and companies on the route
The Civitavecchia–Cagliari crossing lasts on average 13-15 hours: it's the longest route among the main ones because it travels all the way south across the Tyrrhenian Sea. The trips are overnight: departure in the afternoon/evening and arrival in Cagliari the following morning.
The route has historically been operated by Tirrenia, alongside Grimaldi Lines; there are multiple sailings per week year-round, almost daily in summer.
Given the duration, the ship here is truly a "night on the move": the cabin is not a luxury but almost a necessity. If you're traveling by car, arrive at the Civitavecchia check-in at least 2 hours before departure, and more during summer weekends when the port gets congested.
When to book and price seasonality
The seasonality is the same as other Sardinian routes: lowest prices from October to May, highest between late July and Ferragosto.
Typically, prices start from 40–60 € per person for deck passage off-season, with the car costing 60–90 €; in August, prices can double, and cabins — which are more sought after here due to the duration — tend to sell out before anything else.
If you are traveling in high season, book between January and March. An alternative to consider for southern Sardinia: fly to Cagliari and rent a car on the island — it’s convenient if you’re few and without gear; the ferry wins with families, luggage, and your own car in tow.
Tips for the long crossing
With 13–15 hours of sailing, some precautions make a difference for your trip.
- Book a cabin: sleeping in a chair on such a long crossing is tough, and arriving tired to then drive towards Chia or Villasimius is not a good idea. External cabins cost just a bit more, and the natural light upon waking helps.
- Pack a backpack with essentials: the garage remains closed during sailing. Bring everything you need for the night in a carry-on bag.
- With pets: book a pet-friendly cabin right away, as they are limited. If you're prone to seasickness, the southern route is generally more exposed: a sea sickness tablet taken before departure is the classic insurance that costs nothing.
Upon arrival in Cagliari: what’s around
The ferry docks in the heart of Cagliari: from the ship, you can see the Castello district and the arcades of via Roma. If you have time, before setting off, the city deserves at least half a day: the Bastione di Saint Remy, the Cathedral, the San Benedetto market, and the Poetto.
From Cagliari, the south is all reachable in a day: Villasimius and Costa Rei about an hour east, Chia and Pula 40–60 minutes west, Sulcis and Carloforte about an hour and a half. Those heading towards Oristano and Sinis have about an hour on SS131.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ferry from Civitavecchia to Cagliari take?
On average 13–15 hours: it is the longest route among the main ones to Sardinia. The sailings are overnight, arriving in Cagliari the following morning.
Which companies operate the Civitavecchia–Cagliari route?
Tirrenia, historically the holder of the connection, alongside Grimaldi Lines. There are multiple journeys per week year-round and almost daily in summer.
Is the ferry or airplane better for southern Sardinia?
The ferry is better if you’re bringing your car, traveling with family with lots of luggage, or with pets. The airplane to Cagliari plus rental is better if there are one or two of you and you’re traveling light. In August, always compare total costs: rentals on the island can be expensive.
Is a cabin necessary on the Civitavecchia–Cagliari route?
Highly recommended: the crossing lasts 13–15 hours and is overnight. Sleeping in a real bed and arriving rested is worth the extra cost, especially if you need to drive afterwards.
Where does the ferry dock in Cagliari?
In the historic port, right in front of via Roma: you are literally in the city center on foot. Villasimius and Chia are about an hour's drive, Elmas airport is 10 minutes away by train.
How do I get to the Civitavecchia port from Rome?
By car about 45 minutes from the GRA via A12/Aurelia. By train, Civitavecchia station is connected to Rome Termini in about an hour; from the platform to the ferry check-in there is a port shuttle.