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Ferries in Croatia provide an easy way to visit the country’s islands and coastal towns. This page will guide you through types of ferries and catamarans, ticket purchasing options, and helpful tips for navigating the ferry system. In short, everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable exploring of Croatia by ferry.
With over 1,200 islands along its Adriatic coast, ferries and catamarans are essential in Croatia’s transportation system. They connect the mainland with many islands, making even remote places accessible. Domestic ferry lines serve popular islands like Hvar, Brač, Korčula, and Vis. There are also international ferry routes from Italy to Croatia, with connections from cities like Ancona, Bari, and Venice to Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik.
Most international lines operate only in summer, from May to October, when demand is high. This seasonal schedule lets travelers explore Croatia’s islands more easily in warm weather. Ferries are run by both public and private operators, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
In Croatia, ferries include car ferries and fast ferries, or catamarans. Car ferries are larger and can transport both passengers and vehicles, ideal for those bringing a car to the islands. They travel slower but are ideal for flexible travel with goods or cars. Fast ferries (catamarans) carry only passengers and are much quicker, ideal for day trips or travelers without a vehicle.
Croatia ferry lines
Croatia’s ferry network is extensive, connecting the mainland with many islands along the Adriatic coast. Key routes link cities like Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik to popular islands such as Hvar, Brač, and Korčula.
The network includes both year-round and seasonal lines, with increased frequency in summer. Operated by companies like Jadrolinija and Krilo, the network ensures regular, reliable connections, making island hopping easy for travelers.
Croatia has several international ferry lines, primarily connecting with Italy. Routes from cities like Ancona, Bari, and Venice link to Croatian ports such as Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik. Most operate seasonally, from spring to early autumn, catering to summer travelers. These routes provide convenient options for those exploring both Croatian and Italian coastlines.
Croatia has more than 100 ferry ports, serving both ferry and catamaran lines. The largest is Split, which offers amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and toilets close to the terminal. During the busy summer season, it’s best to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to avoid delays. The smallest ferry port is in Plat.
Below is a list of key ports, and a complete list of all ferry ports and terminals in Croatia can be found here.
Split is the busiest port, connecting to islands like Hvar, Brač, and Vis. Split offers many amenities, including Wi-Fi, air conditioning, restrooms, shops, and eateries near the terminal.
Gruz port is known for international routes to Italy (Bari) and domestic lines to Mljet and Korčula. The port provides facilities like cafes, restrooms, and ticketing offices within easy reach.
Gazenica is a central port for connections to islands like Dugi Otok and Ugljan, with regular domestic routes. Zadar port offers Wi-Fi, restrooms, and cafes close by.
Rijeka is northern Adriatic port linking to islands such as Krk and Cres, with seasonal routes to Italy. Amenities include ticket offices, cafes, and restrooms.
Sibenik is a smaller port serving lines to nearby islands like Zlarin and Kaprije. Facilities include cafes, restrooms, and a ticketing area.
Pula port primarily serves Istrian island routes and seasonal lines to Venice. The port offers restrooms, ticket offices, and nearby cafes.
Makarska is a coastal port with routes to Brač and Hvar, providing basic amenities like restrooms and a small ticket office.
Port of Korcula connects to Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar, offering amenities like restrooms, cafes, and ticket counters near the terminal.
Hvar town port us a popular tourist port with lines to Split and other islands, equipped with basic facilities like restrooms and a small waiting area.
Croatia has around 22 ferry companies connecting the mainland with surrounding islands. Jadrolinija is the largest operator, offering over more than 300 routes.
Vessels vary in size and capacity depending on the route, and details about the vessel type can be found on your ticket and in the search results when browsing departures.
Below are some of the main ferry companies in Croatia, with links for more information and reviews on each.
Booking a ferry ticket in Croatia is simple with the GetBy App, which allows you to browse schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for ferries across Croatia. The app provides useful details like schedules and vessel information, which can be particularly helpful during the busy summer season.
Tickets can also be booked through ferry company websites, at ticket offices in the ports, or on other online booking platforms.
Island hopping in Croatia is a popular way to explore the Adriatic coast, connecting coastal towns with top islands like Hvar, Brač, and Korčula. When planning your island-hopping itinerary, consider traveling during the summer season (May to October) when ferry schedules are most frequent. Start from major ports like Split or Dubrovnik for the widest route options, and if you're visiting multiple islands, look for circular routes to avoid backtracking.
Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your spot. Pack light, as ferry cabins and waiting areas can be limited on space. For day trips, fast ferries or catamarans are ideal due to their speed, while car ferries work well if you plan to stay longer or need vehicle access.
Ferry travel in Croatia is a convenient and scenic way to explore the Adriatic coast and its many islands, but a few insider tips can help make the journey even smoother.
Yes, there are ferry routes connecting many of Croatia’s islands, especially during the summer season. Popular island-to-island routes include those between Hvar, Korčula, Brač, and Vis. However, not all islands have direct connections, so some routes may require traveling back to the mainland first.
Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during the summer season when ferries are busiest. While it’s possible to buy tickets at the port, booking online helps secure a spot, especially for popular routes or if you’re traveling with a car.
Ferry prices in Croatia are generally reasonable, with costs varying depending on the route, season, and whether you’re taking a car. Shorter trips between nearby islands are often inexpensive, while longer routes or car ferries can be pricier, especially during peak season.
It’s best to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure during peak season, as ferries can get crowded and boarding may take time. For car ferries, arriving an hour early is advisable, especially on busy routes.
Yes, island hopping is relatively easy, especially from ports like Split and Dubrovnik, which offer frequent connections to major islands. Planning your itinerary based on ferry schedules will help you make the most of your trip.
Yes, many ferries in Croatia are car ferries and can transport vehicles as well as passengers. Fast ferries or catamarans, however, are for passengers only and do not accommodate cars.
Domestic ferry travel | Extensive ferry network connecting the mainland with islands like Hvar, Brač, Korčula, and Vis |
International ferry travel | Routes to nearby countries, including Italy (e.g., Ancona, Bari, Venice) |
Ferry ports | Main ports located in cities like Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Rijeka, and Pula |
Ferry companies | Operated by companies like Jadrolinija, Krilo, and TP Line, providing regular services across the Adriatic |