Naples to Ischia Ferry: Timetables, Prices and Tips in 2025
Planning to take the ferry from Naples to Ischia? There’s more than one option, and the last thing you want is to turn up at the wrong port in the Naples heat, luggage in tow.
I’ve done the Naples to Ischia crossing myself (and made a few mistakes along the way), so this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
You’ll find the difference between ferry types, how to reach the port from the airport or station, and the easiest way to buy tickets, all based on my experience.
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Which Naples port should you use for ferries to Ischia?
If you’ve already looked at Google maps for the Naples to Ischia ferry port, you’ll have spotted different departure points. They sit side-by-side along the coast, but each serves a different crossing and they’re not interchangeable.
Molo Beverello – for fast hydrofoils
The Molo Beverello terminal handles the faster hydrofoils that speed across the bay in around 50 minutes. This is the best option when you’re travelling light and simply want the fastest answer to how to get to Ischia. Tickets cost more than the slower boats, but you’ll make the saving back in holiday time.
Calata Porta di Massa
Car ferries and the larger, slower ships depart from the Porta di Massa docks. The journey takes up to one hour and 45 minutes, but you can take cars on board.
Although the two terminals share the same curve of harbour, allow at least 20 minutes to walk between them, or longer if you’re lugging suitcases in the Naples summer heat.
How to avoid missing your ferry from Naples
The port area of Naples is sprawling, difficult to navigate, especially when you’re short on time, and notoriously chaotic.
When I travelled from Naples to Ischia, I found exiting the Municipio metro station particularly confusing. The signage at the port was unclear and I ended up walking in the wrong direction, arriving at the incorrect terminal. Unfortunately, this meant I missed the ferry and had to buy new tickets – an expensive mistake.
Once you do make it to the correct port, there’s a terminal building at Monte Beverello but actually getting on the correct boat and boarding can still be a bit stressful.
To avoid making the same expensive mistake as me, especially if you have heavy luggage, consider booking a transfer directly to the correct ferry terminal. This simple step can significantly reduce stress and help you arrive in plenty of time.
If you’re using public transport, plan to arrive at least an hour before your ferry departure, in order to have time to navigate your way to the ferry terminal without stressing.
It also helps to familiarise yourself with the route using Google Maps beforehand.
Finally, double check your ferry ticket for your departure point. Confirming this detail in advance ensures you arrive at the correct port and start your journey to Ischia without unnecessary stress.
How to get from Naples Airport or train station to the Ischia ferry terminal
If you’re flying into Naples, to reach the ferry terminals by public transport you can take the Alibus. It runs directly from Naples airport to Porta di Massa and Molo Beverello and costs €5.
The journey takes around 35 minutes depending on traffic and has stops at both port entrances. However, you may have to queue for a short while before you can get on the bus at the airport, particularly during peak summer.
The ferry ticket office is around 100m from where you get off the bus at the last stop (for Molo Beverello) and its sign posted.
Alternatively, book an airport transfer. Just be clear about which terminal you book it to, as Calata Porta di Massa and Molo Beverello are separate entrances along the same waterfront.
From Napoli Centrale train station, you can take Metro Line 1 to Municipio, which is the nearest stop to Molo Beverello, or take the Alibus.
The metro is a short ride of around 10 minutes but not always reliable. On my trip, the metro was delayed and I ended up missing my ferry, so leave extra time if you travel this way.
How much does the ferry from Naples to Ischia cost?
Ticket prices for the Naples to Ischia ferry depend on the type of boat you choose.
Prices for foot passengers start from around €15 one way. The hydrofoils are typically a little more expensive than the slower, regular ferry.
Many companies include one piece of hand luggage in the ticket price and any additional luggage costs an additional fee.
How to buy ferry tickets
To get tickets to Ishchia from Naples, Ferryhopper.com is the most straightforward way to book. You can compare ferry types, departure times and operators all in one place.
If you prefer to book in person, ticket booths are available at both Molo Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa. Make sure you arrive early, especially in high season, as the queues are large, the port feels chaotic and ferries can sell out.
Who operates the ferry to Ischia?
There are two types of ferry services from Naples to Ischia. The best one for you depends on how and when you’re travelling.
Hydrofoils
These are the fastest way to reach Ischia, with crossings taking around 50 minutes. They’re foot-passenger only and depart from Molo Beverello. There are no large luggage compartments, so they’re best suited if you’re travelling light. If you’re coming without a car and want to get to the island quickly, this is your best option.
Regular ferries
These are slower but more spacious. They leave from Calata Porta di Massa and take about 90 minutes. Regular ferries can carry vehicles and have open decks, which makes them a better choice if you’re bringing a car or have bulky luggage.
Ferry operators
Several companies run services between Naples and Ischia, including:
- Alilauro
- Caremar
- Medmar
- SNAV
Each ferry company operates different timetables and ships.
Check Ferryhopper.com for latest timetables.
When do ferries run from Naples to Ischia?
Ferries and hydrofoils from Naples to Ischia run all year round, with more departures during the summer. In peak season, there are boats leaving multiple times a day.
The first ferries tend to depart around 6am, with the last return service to Naples typically leaving Ischia at around 8pm. If you’re planning a day trip, check return times in advance to avoid being stranded on Ischia.
The easiest way to check current ferry times and compare operators is on Ferryhopper.com. You can view live schedules, filter by ferry type and book directly through the site.
Arriving on Ischia
Ferries from Naples arrive at three different ports on Ischia: Ischia Porto, Casamicciola and Forio.
It makes sense to choose the one closest to where you’re staying, but if you’re just looking for the quickest crossing, head for Ischia Porto. This is the island’s main harbour and handles the fastest hydrofoil services.
Ischia Porto is within easy walking distance of the town centre, and you’ll find taxis, buses and accommodation options close to the terminal. The famous Castello de Aragonese is a 35-minute walk from Ischia Porto.
If your ferry arrives into Forio or Casamicciola instead, both towns also have well-located ports. I stayed in Forio and found the port to be right in the centre, which made the last leg of the journey easy.
Wherever you arrive, there’s a good network of local buses to help you reach other parts of Ischia.
FAQs: Naples to Ischia ferry
Can you take a car on the ferry to Ischia?
Yes, you can take a car on the ferry to Ischia, but only on the large ferries from Calata Porta di Massa. Check your rental car agreement before booking, as some companies restrict ferry use. Car spaces are limited in high season, so booking ahead is essential.
Can you do a Naples to Ischia day trip?
Yes, a day trip from Naples to Ischia is very doable, especially by hydrofoil. The trip to Ischia only takes 50 minutes each way, making it easy to enjoy the island for the day. However, I recommend spending at least a few days to fully explore Ischia’s beaches and restaurants.
Can you take luggage on the Naples to Ischa ferry?
Most tickets allow you to bring a small piece of hand luggage with you included in the price. You will have to pay a fee for additional bags. The different ferry operators have their own policies so check at the time of booking.
Planning your time on Ischia
Now you know how to get to Ischia from Naples, it’s time to plan what to do once you’re there. Start with my guide to 10 top things to do on Ischia, covering everything from historic spas to scenic hikes.
If you’re heading straight to the sand, my Ischia beaches guide has all the top spots.
If you’re a keen hiker, the Mount Epomeo hike is one of the island’s best. It’s a steady climb with big views at the top, and well worth making the effort for.
Combine a trip to Ischia with a day at the Amalfi Coast.
Already dreaming of your next island getaway? I’ve also written about how to get from Malta to Gozo by ferry, another brilliant route to bookmark for your Mediterranean travel list.