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1 day Sicily - Pozzallo, Mount Etna & Taormina Tour

• Travel on high speed Catamaran
• No Hidden Surcharges
• Sicily guided tour on luxury coach
• Optional transfers to/from port
• FLEXI Cancellation

Additional Information

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1 day Sicily - Marzamemi & Syracuse Tour

1 day Sicily - Modica, Ragusa Ibla & Scicli Heritage Tour

• Optional local transfers to/from port

1 day Sicily - Pozzallo, Mount Etna & Syracuse Tour

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New catamaran service from Malta to Sicily as from August

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – A new, fast ferry catamaran service from Valletta, Malta to the port of Augusta in Sicily will start operating every day from August, 6. The catamaran, HSC Artemis, will bring more competition in the market, with Ponte Ferries as a second operator along with Virtu Ferries. The high-speed craft has the flexibility to shuttle more than 717 passengers between Malta and Sicily, and to carry 245 cars, or 15 road freight trailers plus 180 cars. The 96 metre catamaran was operating in the Canary Islands and has recently been overhauled and refitted by Fred Olsen, a leading ferry operator in Spain that specializes in inter-island routes aboard high-speed vessels. Augusta, is located less than 30 minutes away from Catania. A spokesperson for Ponte Ferries said: “We are delighted to bring much-needed competition to this market in time for the peak holiday season. Our vessel offers great value and has the added advantage of berthing in Augusta, which is just a short drive away from Catania, Syracuse, the shopping outlets and Taormina”. One-way trips are on sale for €9.99 at a starting price. Ponte Ferries is a Maltese joint venture between Magro Brothers Investments Ltd and Merill Invest Ltd. (ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

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• Malta to Sicily Tours

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malta to sicily tours

Discover sicily's most beautiful towns and villages.

Want to visit Sicily from Malta, our neighbouring island?  There are a few Malta to Sicily tours you can choose from.

The Maltese love heading to Sicily for short holidays and taking a scenic road trip around the island . Sicily can be reached in less than two hours from Malta.

Despite being the eternal crossroads of the Mediterranean, it is no wonder that Sicily attracts tourists each year with an ever-changing range of landscapes that keep the island captivating.

It is common for tourists visiting our island to go on a tour of Sicily by taking one of the following Sicily day trips.

Disclaimer:   On our website you will find affiliate links from which we make a small commission.

Despite MaltaInfoGuide.com's efforts to ensure that its content is as accurate as possible, information can change without our knowledge.  If you plan on taking a tour, it is always advisable to stick to the details provided by the booking agency. You can always contact the booking agency here .

four malta to sicily tours

• Sicily Trip to Mount Etna and Modica
• Sicily Trip to Mount Etna and Taormina

Trip To Sicilies eastern coast with Syracuse, Marzamemi and Noto

• Sicily Trip to Modica, Ragusa Ibla and Scicli

Sicily Trip To Mount Etna and Modica

Several Highlights On Your Tour

• Visit the fishing village of Pozzallo on the island of Sicily.
• Stroll through the ancient city of Modica.
• Drive to the Etna volcano and explore.

sicily Locations That You Visit On Tour

Modica: Today it attracts so many tourists for its Baroque architecture which lines the streets and for the chocolate-making which are among the attractions of this picturesque Sicilian city.

Mount Etna:  Europe's largest and most active volcano. It reaches a height of 3357 metres, though to its continuous eruptions, its landscape and height vary. Climbing to the crater takes you through picturesque villages. The lower slopes of the volcano produce some of Sicily's best wines apart from an abundance of oranges and lemons.

additional information

The tour lasts around 5 hours and 45 minutes. This does not include the ferry from Malta to Sicily. Departure and return from the same location at  Virtu Ferries Port Malta.

These are the times when you will be departing and arriving in Malta.

• Departure: 05:15
• Arrival: 23:00

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Enter 'maltainfoguide' in coupon box to get 5% discount. eTicket (mobile ticket) is available.

Sicily Trip To Mount Etna and Taormina

The village of Taormina and Mount Etna are highlights of this trip. The ferry to Sicily departs early in the morning, and the return ferry f rom Sicily to Malta departs at 21:30.

Visiting Mount Etna is high on the list for most visitors to Sicily

Several highlights on your trip

• Explore the typical fisherman's village of Pozzallo.
• Visit and roam around the city of Taormina.
• Drive up the Etna volcano and enjoy the views.

locations that you visit on tour

Taormina: It is a small town located on the coast of Sicily that is renowned for its natural beauty and its popularity as a tourist destination. It is a tourist attraction throughout the year, with many tourists flocking to its streets. The stunning sea views and the striking Etna volcano can be admired from Taormina perched on the edge of a 200 metre-high cliff.

Mount Etna:  One of the world's most active volcanoes It has the reputation of being almost continuously active. In addition to being known as Mongibello , it is also a volcano that has remained under close observation for quite a while. Because of its dramatic eruptions and frequent lava flows, there has always been a lot of interest among scientists and visitors from all over the world.

Additional information

The duration of the tour is  5 hours and 45 minutes . The timeframe of travelling from Malta to Sicily and back is not added with the tour itinerary duration. The start and end of the tour will be at the Virtu Ferry Port in Malta unless you have paid for local transport.

The following times are when you will leave for Sicily and when you will return to Malta.

• Departure to Sicily:  05:15
• Return to Malta:  23:00

In one day, explore the eastern coast of Sicily, including Marzamemi, Syracuse, and Noto. In addition, you can enjoy a typical Sicilian lunch in an agriturismo.

• Visit the typical Sicilian village of Pozzallo.
• Wander around the multicoloured traditional fishing village  of Marzamemi.
• Visit the city of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the city of Syracuse.

Locations That You Visit On Tour

Noto:  It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is called the Capitale del Barocco. The city of Noto is a masterpiece of late Baroque architecture. About 10km from the old center, it was rebuilt from scratch after the terrible 1693 earthquake.

Marzamemi:  This charming seaside village is among Italy's 20 most beautiful seaside villages. The Arabs put Marzamemi on the map in the 10th century. Aside from giving the village its poetic name, they also built the island's first tuna processing plant ( tonnara ). Siracusa:  Aside from the Greek and Roman theaters, there are a number of other archaeological sites that are worth mentioning, such as the Cathedral, which was originally a temple dedicated to Athena in the ancient city of Ortegia. Back in the day, it was the largest city in Western Europe, and it is still one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily today.

It takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes to complete the tour. The ferry from Malta to Sicily is not included in this time frame. The tour departs and returns from the same port.

The following times indicate when you will depart and arrive in Malta Grand Harbour Valletta.

• Departure:  05:15
• Arrival:  23:00

Trip To Modica, Ragusa Ibla & Scicli

Several Highlights On Your tour

• Travel to Sicily by ferry.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scicli.
• Visit another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site Ragusa Ibla.
• Tour the ancient city of Modica.

locations That You Visit On Tour

Modica: A medieval old city and after the great earthquake of 1693 it was rebuilt with beautiful late-Baroque architecture, which made it a tourist destination. There are beautiful baroque facades, churches, palaces, narrow streets and stairs that connect the old and new.

Ragusa Ibla: Amaze yourself with the pastel buildings, cobblestone paths that lead to tempting Sicilian restaurants and cafés. Ragusa is a city with two faces. Since an earthquake destroyed most of the old town in 1693, Ragusa Superiore has been built higher up the mountain with shops and business establishments. It is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Scicli:  Located in the enchanting Iblei mountains of the Val di Noto, Scicli is set in a natural setting of rare beauty. UNESCO recognized it as a "pearl of rare beauty" and declared it a World Heritage Site. At the intersection of three valleys and just a few kilometers from the sea, it is one of Sicily's hidden gems.

When booking your Malta to Sicily tours, make sure you enter 'maltainfoguide' in the coupon box while selecting your tour day, to take advantage of the 5% discount.

Image of Ragusa Ibla: Depositphotos

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Virtu Ferries

• Terms & Conditions
• 10% for tickets cancelled up to 7 days before sailing
• 50% for tickets cancelled up to 3 days before sailing
• Passengers cancelling in less than 3 days before sailing are not entitled to a refund
• Passengers not checking in on time for departure or for any reason not embarking are not eligible for refunds, partial or otherwise of the amount paid
• Open dated tickets may be refunded within the limit of their validity (3 months) subject to a deduction of 10%
• Vehicle tickets are not refundable. Vehicle tickets not utilised on the booked date shall be cancelled and not refunded

Useful information

Price The price of the ticket includes the sea journey and port service charge. The Company reserves the right to introduce a fuel surcharge from time to time without prior notice. The charge does not cover any meals. Validity The validity of this ticket is restricted to the person / vehicle and sailing / sailings indicated thereon. All tickets are valid for 3 months and open tickets must be exchanged for a fixed dated ticket within this period. Passengers Passengers are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure that they are fit to travel; your attention is drawn to the possibility of weather conditions changing during a voyage. Passengers with a medical condition, for which they have not sought professional advice, are asked to inform a member of the Company’s staff prior to departure. The Master of the vessel may, at his discretion and in the interest of the passenger, disallow boarding. It is the passenger’s responsibility to check carefully the booking details / travel documents and inform the travel agent should any inaccuracies be found. Passengers with special needs are to advise the Company of any requirements when effecting a reservation. Passengers are to make sure that they are in possession of all necessary (valid) documents prior travelling. Passengers are to be seated in areas of the vessel as indicated by the crew. Embarkation Passengers should, before departure, ensure that no variations have taken place concerning the vessel’s time and date of sailing indicated on the ticket. Therefore a booking reconfirmation 24 hrs before departure both on the outgoing and the incoming voyages is recommended. Passengers must be present for embarkation at least 1 hour before departure. Passengers travelling with vehicles must be present for embarkation at least one and a half hours before departure time. Embarkation may be denied to passengers / vehicles arriving after the set time. Check in closes half an hour prior to every departure. Passengers are responsible for complying with border formalities. The Company is not responsible in the event that the passenger is not allowed to embark at the point of origin or to disembark at the port of destination due to lack of the necessary documents or non observance of formalities by the passenger. In such instances the passenger shall compensate the Company for any eventual damages and expenses including the issuance of a return ticket if this is applicable. Accompanying Vehicles All dangerous goods as defined in the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, as amended, shall be declared to the Company when effecting booking, in accordance with the applicable requirements. Vehicles with liquid gas must be declared when purchasing tickets. Failing such declaration, same goods will be refused. Acceptance of booking remains subject to applicable codes and legislation and authorization for carriage by the relevant authorities at loading and / or discharging ports. Vehicles are loaded and secured onboard in the order established by the Master. Vehicles shall be left in first gear (manual) or in ‘P’ (automatic) and with handbrake fully on. Personal belongings left in cars are at passenger’s own risk. The company will not be held responsible for any damage to the vehicles or to items therein. Any damage caused to the vessel or third parties by a vehicle is the liability of the owner of the vehicle and compensation must be settled before disembarkation. Master of the vessel may, at his discretion and in the interest of safety, not allow loading of vehicles/cargo whose weight/dimensions exceed the maximum allowed or the nature of which may constitute a hazard. The driver of the vehicle is responsible to ensure that cargo carried in / on vehicle is safely secured. The Master may disallow carriage if the cargo is not safely secured. Maximum overall height of vehicles must not exceed 4.35 metres on side lanes and 4.6 metres on centre lanes. Maximum weight for single wheel axle is 11 tonnes and 14 tonnes for double wheel axle. Total overall weight must not exceed 40 tonnes. Extra cargo will be unloaded and carried at driver’s expense. Weapons, dangerous and/or illegal articles/materials/substances are strictly forbidden to be carried on board in any form or quantity. Passengers, their baggage/vehicles are liable to security searches by Company personnel. The Company will fully co-operate with the appropriate Authorities to prosecute persons found in possession of forbidden items. Light vehicles carrying goods not for personal use will be charged commercial rates. Baggage Passengers may take to their seats or allotted places only one item of hand luggage of not more than H 37cms x W 45cms x L 25 cms in measure and 5 Kgs in weight, all other luggage to be deposited by the passengers in the storage place reserved on the vessel as indicated by the vessel’s crew. Maximum 3 pieces of baggage per person. Any one piece of baggage must not exceed H 50cms x W 40cms x L 80cms (170 linear cms). Excess Baggage: A charge of €20.00 per piece applies. The Company is not responsible for loss of or wilful damage to luggage. In the interest of safety, the Company may destroy any unaccompanied baggage or luggage left behind after disembarkation. Pets All necessary sanitary documents are required. Pets in cages / pets in cars are to remain in the garage during all voyages. Port Vet to be contacted directly by clients prior to arrival Malta. Kindly contact Virtu Ferries for further information.

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Ferries from Malta to Italy

Ferries Malta Italy . Ferries from Malta to Italy. Are you looking for a ferry from Malta to Italy? We offer ferry crossings from all ports in Malta to the Italian mainland. Ferries to the port of Valletta in Salerno.

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Earlier today, the Times of Malta confirmed that Maltese businessman Paul Gauci has secured a multi-million deal, making him the new owner of the Marina di Ragusa in Sicily.

The news also suggested that a new daily catamaran service between Malta and Sicily will start by summer 2023, with a commute time of one hour and 45 minutes.

In fact, the catamaran, which goes by the name of Ragusa Express, was spotted docked at a Maltese shipyard last October, leading many to speculate that a new Ragusa to Malta route will be launched.

The ferry purchased by Paul Gauci will be able to take up to 430 passengers, 21 cars or 65 motorcycles.

Virtu Ferries is currently the only other company operating between Malta and Sicily, travelling from Valletta to Pozzallo.

Ponte Ferries was also operating between Malta and Augusta but has temporarily stopped its operations with no indication of when it’s returning.

Facebook/Salvatore Moltisanti

18th January 2023

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On The Go Solo

Solo travel tips and advice for adventurers and dreamers.

Malta to Sicily Ferry Options: Who Should You Travel With?

Update: may 15, 2022.

From the look of it, Grimaldi Lines is no longer operating a passenger service between Malta and Sicily. That said, you still have two ferry lines to choose from. Ponte ferries announced four days ago that they will be resuming their fast ferry service between Valletta and Augusta, Sicily this coming week. Ponte will start by running ferries four days a week (Sunday/Monday/Wednesday/Friday) in May and June. Departure hours vary depending on the day of the week, but the travel time is the same: 3 hours 15 minutes each way . Tickets for May and June sailings are on sale now and for foot passengers, there are 7 different levels of seating comfort you can choose from, including Ponte Plus , Ponte Premium , and Ponte Exclusive . Full details about the differences between each level are not currently available on the website, so check here before you book to see that has changed.

The company says it will announce their sailing schedule for July, August, and beyond within the next few weeks, so you cannot make reservations for those months yet.

For details on the sailing hours, ticket prices, and location of the new ferry terminal (it’s on the Valletta side of the Grand Harbour not too far from the City Gate – making it easier to get to than the remote Grimaldi terminal), check out the Ponte ferries website at https://ponteferries.com/ .

Update: October 17, 2021

As of Monday October 11, 2021, the island of Sicily is classified as a White Zone, which is the level with the least COVID restrictions in the Italian ranking system. According to the Virtu Ferries website, all passengers ages 6 and over traveling from Malta to Sicily must fill in a European Union-mandated Passenger Locator Form (PLF) and must provide one of the following certificates:

• a negative swab test result (PCR or rapid) taken 48 hours prior to arrival in Sicily.
• an EU Digital Covid vaccine certificate. *
• an EU Digital Covid-19 recovery certificate. *

*Until further notice, all passengers travelling to Sicily must also present a negative swab test result (PCR or rapid) taken 48 hours prior to arrival in Sicily. Passengers who are not in possession of a negative swab test result will be asked to do a swab test on arrival in Sicily.

Update: July 7, 2020

Ferry services have resumed between Malta and Sicily. However, if you are a U.S. citizen, you are not eligible to visit Malta or Sicily (and hence cannot get on the ferry to leave either one).

Here’s what the U.S. Embassy in Malta has posted on their website :

. . . U.S. citizens residing in the United States are banned from entering Malta for non-essential travel, which includes tourism, unless you have an EU passport or meet the very narrow exceptions detailed here . The EU Commission determines who may enter the EU based on epidemiological data.  At this time, there is no projected date when travelers from the United States will be permitted to enter Malta.

and here’s what the U.S. Embassy in Rome has posted on their website :

As of July 1, the European Union (known as the EU, which includes Italy) began lifting the restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU for residents of certain third countries.  This does not include United States residents, however the list will be reviewed every two weeks.  Please visit  https://reopen.europa.eu/en  for more information.

Update: June 10, 2020

On June 3, Virtu Ferries announced that they will resume ferry service between Malta and Sicily on July 1, 2020 .

On June 10, Grimaldi Lines also announced July 1 as the date they will resume ferry service , but provided no additional details.

Passenger fares for the Virtu Ferries catamaran will increase during the shoulder seasons (July 1-17 and all of September) by 12-15% for return passengers. Vehicle fares during the same time period will increase 17-30%. This is being done to offset some of the losses Virtu Ferries will incur due to the 40% reduction on the number of passengers they are allowed to transport on each run. Peak season fares (July 17- Aug 31) will remain unchanged.

Social distancing measures will be strictly observed.

The Virtu Ferries website contains very little information. For details, refer to the Times of Malta article, “ Increase in Catamaran Ticket Prices ” (June 3, 2020) or contact Virtu Ferries by via telephone + 356 22069022 or email [email protected] .

UPDATE: June 1, 2020

The Grimaldi Ferries website was updated this morning with the following note:

“it is reported that passenger transport is suspended until June 15, 2020.”

This is the third time they have moved the date in the past month, so you should not count on ferry service actually resuming in mid-June. OnTheGoSolo.com will monitor the site daily and post any updates here.

In addition, Virtu Ferries has posted the following message on their website:

Are you travelling with Virtu Ferries? Need information regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19)? Email to: [email protected]

UPDATE: May 9, 2020

The Grimaldi Ferries website states the following: “…passenger transport is suspended until May 16th, 2020” which implies that it might be reopening as early as next week. The VirtuFerries website contains no information about when passenger travel will be allowed to resume.

U PDATE: March 10, 2020

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, all passenger and non-commercial vehicle traffic on both ferry lines is prohibited. Only commercial vehicles and their drivers are able to travel between Malta and Sicily for the time being. Neither company’s website gives a specific end date for these restrictions. We’ll update this website when we learn more.

————————————————————————————————————

When traveling by ferry from Malta to Sicily and beyond, there are two companies from which to choose. And the one you end up selecting will likely have a lot to do with your budget and why you’re taking the ferry in the first place. It’ll also depend on how much inconvenience you’re willing to put up with.

This blog describes the benefits and drawbacks of the two ferry options available to you: Virtu Ferries and Grimaldi Lines .

If you’re thinking of going by ferry from Valletta all the way to Salerno (Italy) jump to the end of this article to see why that’s a very bad idea.

Malta to Sicily Ferry Comparison

Malta to Sicily Ferry Departure Locations

The two ferry companies heading to Sicily DO NOT depart from the same location.

Virtu Ferries

Virtu ferries depart from the Virtu Ferries Passenger Terminal , which is in the Marsa neighborhood on the north side of the Grand Harbour . If you’re staying in Valletta, the terminal is about a 5 minute taxi ride from the Triton Fountain. Most taxi drivers will know where it is, but just in case, the address is Xatt L-Ghassara Ta’ L-Gheneb. Marsa .

Grimaldi Lines ferries depart from Laboratory Wharf in the Paola neighborhood on the south side of the Grand Harbour . The wharf is more or less directly across the water from the Virtu Ferries Passenger Terminal. To get to it, you drive around the harbour and take Telgha Ta Ras Hanzir road until it dead ends at the docks. The trip takes about 10 minutes from the Triton Fountain, assuming your taxi driver knows where to go. The road leading to the terminal is dark and spooky and looks like a perfect place to be murdered, but trust that your driver’s GPS is leading you to the correct location.

Map courtesy of Google Maps, 2019

Option 1: Virtu Ferries from Valletta to Pozzallo/Catania

Virtu Ferries has a much more frequent sailing schedule throughout the year compared to its competitor Grimaldi Lines. Virtu Ferries operates a high-speed catamaran that crosses to and from Pozzallo, Sicily in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Once in Pozzallo, passengers wanting to go on to Catania must board coach buses for the 2 1/4 hour journey north.

Travel Season

Winter: From October 1 to April 30. Sailings from Valletta to Sicily most Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Same-day returns are possible. Check the Virtu Ferries website to confirm the day and time of departure for your trip.

Summer: From May 1 to September 30. Sailings daily. The specific hours and number of ferries per day varies by month and by day of the week. Consult the Virtu Ferries website for details.

Passenger (No Vehicle) Cost

• One-way ticket: 62 euros (Pozzallo) and 76 euros (Catania)
• Return ticket: 102 euros (Pozzallo) and 132 euros (Catania)
• Much faster than Grimaldi Lines
• Much more modern ship
• Same-day returns are possible
• A later departure time, so more daylight during the voyage
• More convenient departure location (Valletta side of the Grand Harbour)
• More ferry departure times and dates available year round
• Family- and tourist-oriented ferry service, versus the commercially-oriented Grimaldi ferry
• Much of the journey is done during daylight hours, so plenty of opportunities to take photos
• Significantly more expensive
• The Pozzallo – Catania leg of the journey is done by coach bus, not by ferry

Option 2: Grimaldi Lines from Valletta to Catania

Grimaldi Lines is, to be honest, a commercial ferry operation that happens to also take passengers. As such, it’s much cheaper than Virtu Ferries, but it’s not at all luxurious and kind of inconvenient.

Winter/Summer: Year-round, weekly sailings on Mondays from Valletta to Catania, Sicily. Check the Grimaldi Lines website to confirm the day and time of departure for your trip.

• One-way ticket: 28.50 euros
• Return ticket: 52 euros
• Significantly cheaper than Virtu Ferries
• Ferry travels directly to Catania. No coach bus travel is required.
• Much slower than Virtu Ferries
• Older, far less luxurious ships
• Not possible to do a same-day return
• Very early departure time, so few opportunities to take photos
• Inconvenient departure location (across the Grand Harbour from Valletta)
• Time and location of departure mean that you’ll have to take a taxi to get there, adding 10-15 euros onto the cost of your trip
• One ferry departure each week, year-round
• Commercially-oriented operation, so not intended to be family-friendly

Valletta to Salerno by ferry: A bad idea

If you’re planning to take the Grimaldi ferry from Valletta all the way to Salerno, Italy, I’d strongly recommend that you rethink that idea .

The ferry leaves Valletta at 4 a.m. and arrives seven hours later in Catania, Sicily at around 11 a.m. There is, however, a huge issue that Grimaldi doesn’t tell you when you book your ticket. And they don’t to tell you when you board, either. Or anywhere on the company’s website. Or anywhere on your ticket. What they fail to inform you is that if you are a through passenger to Salerno, you cannot disembark in Catania . In effect, during the ELEVEN HOUR LAYOVER in Catania, you’re confined to the ship.

Aside from a bar/lounge area that blasts Italian language chat shows all day long, there is nothing to do and nothing to see. During winter sailings, the onboard shop is also closed, so you won’t be able to buy reading materials, playing cards, or anything. The onboard bar sells alcohol, coffee, ice cream bars, a limited range of prepackaged food, and bottled drinks. And the ship’s galley serves a modestly priced lunch and dinner. So don’t worry, you won’t starve. But take it from someone who’s experienced it, it’s not an enjoyable way to spend a day.

Valletta to Salerno Workaround

If you’re determined to go by ferry from Malta to Salerno, I’d recommend the following simple workaround. It’ll cost more to travel this way, but it’ll save you the mind-numbing all-day wait onboard.

• Take the Virtu Ferry service from Valletta to Catania. That will get you to Catania at 10:45 a.m., about 45 minutes before the Grimaldi ferry even arrives.
• Spend the day looking around Catania, checking out Mt Etna, or just relaxing in one of the town’s plazas.
• Around 8 p.m., head to Catania’s port and board the Grimaldi ferry for the 10 p.m. departure to Salerno.

Valletta to Mainland Italy Workaround

If you want to take a ferry from Valletta and still end up on mainland Italy, there’s a second workaround you can resort to. Note that it’s not exactly a fast or cheap option, but it certainly is unique. And it gives you the option to travel anywhere in Italy, not just Salerno.

• Take the Virtu Ferry service from Valletta to Pozzallo .
• In Pozzallo, walk or cab it 1 1/4 miles from the ferry terminal to the train station.
• Catch the train from Pozzallo north to the town of Messina . The journey takes about 4 1/2 hours. Although Sicily is an island, Messina is connected to the Italian train network through the use of special ferries that the train cars are rolled onto and off of. Passengers stay on the train during the brief crossing of the Straits of Messina and arrive on mainland Italy in the town of Villa San Giovanni .
• Once the crossing is completed, the train is on its way again. High speed trains will get you from Villa San Giovanni to Rome in just over 4 1/2 hours. Regular trains take just over 10 hours to cover the same distance.

For a terrific description and pictures of this unusual rail option, check out the following blog post on the Eurail website: To Sicily By A Train On A Ferry .

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Home » Adventure Tales » Places to Visit: Catamaran rentals in Malta, Croatia and Italy

Places to Visit: Catamaran rentals in Malta, Croatia and Italy

Boating in Europe will always be on many people’s bucket lists, especially since you have places like Croatia, Malta and Italy in such close proximity to each other, making for an excellent sailing route! From crystal clear waters with sand or pebble beaches to quaint coastal towns and historical sights, a  catamaran rental in Malta , Croatia and Italy, won’t let you down.

There are many ways to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. The three countries of Malta, Croatia and Italy offer a diverse range of boating opportunities. Malta is perfect for those who want to explore the coastline and islands in peace and quiet, while Croatia is an excellent choice for those who want to combine boating with other water sports such as scuba diving or snorkelling. A sailboat rental in Italy offers a variety of options for those who want to explore the coastline or head out into the open sea.

To start your boating journey to the places I’m going to list here, you will need to rent a boat or a catamaran. Oceans Evasion is a boat rental platform with more than 17,000 catamarans and sailboats for rent. A  catamaran rental in Croatia  or Malta and Italy is always a family-friendly option full of adventure.

Why Malta, Croatia and Italy?

Boating is a great way to explore the beauty of the Mediterranean. Malta, Croatia and Italy offer unique boating experiences, plenty of beach activities, historical landmarks and water sports.

The Maltese Islands  are a popular destination for boaters; they have many scenic spots and historical sites to visit.

Croatia  has a long coastline with plenty of islands and coves to explore. The country has a rich cultural heritage which is reflected in its cuisine, music and architecture.

Italy  is an ideal destination for boaters who want to experience both the sea and the mountains. It has more than 3,000 kilometres of coastline, with picturesque villages and towns that dot its shores.

Places to visit

Istria, Croatia

If you embark on a catamaran rental in Croatia your first stop should be the Istria region, well known for its coastal towns and abundance of wine and olive groves. The best place to start your trip is Rovinj. It has a marina located in the southeastern part of the harbour, and it’s protected from the wind by the island of Sveta Katarina.

• Visit Punta Kamenjak Beach and Fazana Beach
• Visit Brijuni archipelago
• Easy access to Veli Brijun
• Plenty of archaeological sites
• Safari Park

Not only that but there are also hidden attractions in Istria. Not far from Cape Kamenjak, you can find two large underwater caves that are stunning.

Tip: The best time to visit Istria is from May and June to September and early October.

Comino, Malta

For a catamaran rental in Malta, the best option to go boating is Comino. Malta’s sister island might look a bit small, but without a doubt, it has the best and most strikingly beautiful bays and places to visit, due to its crystal-clear turquoise waters.

There are many things to check in Comino, but a good place to start your journey and anchor your boat in Malta is Qawra Point or Golden Bay, that way you’ll be close to most of the island’s attractions (including Comino). I can’t put into words how splendid this is, you’ll have easy access to Gozo, Malta’s bays and many historical sites of the island.

• Visit Golden Bay Beach
• Blue Lagoon
• Crystal Lagoon
• Dingli cliffs
• Fish Market in Marsaxlokk
• Land and water activities

Tip: The best time to visit Malta, Comino and Gozo is during the spring months and early summer, from April, May and June to September and early October

Naples, Italy

There’s no better place for boating in Italy than Naples, and your best choice to anchor your boat is at the Phlegraean Islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. All of them can be easily accessed from the Gulf of Naples, making it one of the best places for a sailboat rental in Italy.

If I had to choose I would go for Capri; it has been a well-known place for many famous figures to retreat to, from (the misunderstood?) Emperor Tiberius to the writer Pablo Neruda. But all three islands have something to offer. For example, Ischia is the largest island and is usually called “the green island” as it is well known for its mineral springs and thermal waters. Procida is the smallest island of all three and is a picturesque fisherman village that’s almost unspoiled. It’s also well known for people that want to escape the usual tourist landscape.

When it comes to things to do and places to visit it’s HARD to just select a few, there are many inland and water destinations in Naples to check out.

• Visit Castel Ovo and the Lungomare
• National Archeological Museum
• Marina Piccola
• Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto)
• The Gaiola Beach
• Lido Virgilio
• Gaiola Archaeological Park
• Sunken Nymphaeum at Baiae

Tip: The best time to visit Naples and the Phlegraean Islands is from March and April to early November.

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Your post on affordable rentals in Malta, Croatia, and Italy is a fantastic resource for budget-conscious travelers like myself. It’s refreshing to see a comprehensive list of affordable accommodations that still offer comfort and amenities while staying within a reasonable budget.

I appreciate the range of options you have presented, from cozy apartments to private villas. The fact that many of these rentals are located in scenic areas with beautiful views is a huge plus. The tips you provided for each location are also very helpful, especially for first-time visitors.

As someone who loves to explore new destinations and experience different cultures, finding affordable accommodations is always a top priority. Your post has given me some great ideas for my next trip, and I look forward to considering some of the options you have presented.

Thank you for sharing your expertise and for providing a valuable resource for budget-conscious travelers. I look forward to reading more of your posts in the future.

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In Malta, Catania is synonymous with shopping. This is hardly surprising given that the city is the second largest in Sicily and is the undisputed commercial centre of the whole of eastern Sicily. Suffice it to say that since World War II the economy of Catania has developed at such a rapid pace that it has earned for itself the epitaph Milano del Sud.

Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has quite recently been given a good clean-up and face lift. So nice to now see those magnificent buildings, previously black from soot, now a brilliant white.

Via Etnea is actually a very long street, all the way to the foot of Mount Etna, but we are only interested in the stretch between Piazza Duomo and Villa Bellini. This is the city’s main shopping zone. The open market is just off Via Etnea, it’s worthwhile a short noisy experience.

Piazza Duomo

Piazza Duomo leads to Via Etnea at one end and the Port of Catania at the other. The most sensible way to enjoy the piazza, a pedestrian zone, is to sit at one of the very fine cafes and admire the whole setting. The heavy baroque Duomo, the Cattedrale di Sant’Agata , originally built by Roger the Norman, was rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake. This is at one end of the Piazza with the University of Catania at the other. Bang in the middle is the Fontana dell’Elefante , the black lava elephant dating from Roman times; the Elephant is the symbol of the city.

Villa Bellini

Villa Bellini or Giardino Bellini in Via Etnea. A flight of steps takes you into this well planned ornamental garden, a haven of peace in this otherwise very busy city. The gardens are named after the Catania born composer Vincenzo Bellini. A monument in Via Etnea and the Teatro Massimo, also on Via Etnea, are also dedicated to the master.

The Pescheria, fish market, is just off the Piazza Duomo. You cannot have seen so many different fish in one place at any one time. You start to wonder how an innocent young man with buckets of shellfish can possibly make so much noise. Now it’s perfectly obvious you are not there to buy fish, let alone cook it, but it doesn’t prevent sellers from opening a fresh mussel, putting it under your nose and yelling 'COZZE' in your ear. What a place, what fun, what an experience.

• Ferry from Catania to Malta

Tickets & Schedules

• Ferry Tickets
• Ferry routes

Attention: The Catania - Malta route is no longer active. At the moment, all the ferry connections to Malta are operated from the sicilian ports of Pozzallo (close to Ragusa) and Augusta (close to Syracuse).

Check the Pozzallo - Malta   and the Augusta - Malta ferries!

Ferry Routes

The ferry connection from Catania to Malta has not been active for some time now. The latest info on this route are for 2019 , and you can find them below:

How frequent is the ferry connection between Catania and Malta?

There were 2 ferry companies operating this crossing from the port of Catania to the port of Valletta in Malta: Virtu Ferries with 8 weekly sailings and Grimaldi Lines with 1 sailing a week.

How long is the ferry ride from Catania to Malta?

The ferry journey from the port of Catania to Malta lasted from 4 h  to 7 hrs , depending on the ferry route you choose.

What is the distance between Catania and Malta?

The island of Malta is approximately 100 nautical miles (186 km) south of Catania.

Ferry tickets from Catania to Malta: Cost

The price ferry ticket from Catania to Malta started from 30€ for single footing passengers. There was also the option of booking a bed cabin and vehicle transportation through the ferries’ garage.

Tip: The ferry company Virtu Ferries doesn’t accept bookings very close to the departure date. So we advise you to check our updated search engine and book your ferry tickets in advance!

How can I book my ferry tickets from Catania to Malta?

The Catania - Malta route was one of the most popular. But don't worry, because now you can get to Valletta thanks to the ferry connections from Pozzallo and Augusta!

Find on Ferryhopper  all you need to know about an unforgettable ferry trip to Malta from Italy!

Useful tips for your ferry trip from Catania to Malta:

• It is highly recommended that you to get to the port 90 min before boarding , especially if you are travelling with your vehicle.
• A great way to explore the island of Malta is by car or motorcycle. Ferryhopper recommends that you bring your own vehicle or rent one.
• Except for Valletta, the port of Catania is well connected with the port of Salerno in mainland Italy.
• For further info  about your ferry trip or ferry tickets, you can contact our customer support team!

Ferries from Italy to Malta

Navigation Route

Passengers selection, vehicle selection, navigation route inbound, book your ferry from italy to malta with netferry.

The line between Italy and Malta isn't available at this time by any maritime company connected to NetFerry online booking system.

from ITALY to MALTA

From italy to la valletta (malta), ferries from salerno to la valletta (malta), ferries from catania to la valletta (malta), ferries from pozzallo to la valletta (malta), guide of malta.

The Republic of Malta is an archipelago in the southern Mediterranean and obtained its independence from the UK in 1964, it has been a member state of the European Union since 2004. Malta is made up of three islands are Malta, Gozo and Comino. Today the official languages ​​are English and Maltese and the capital is Valletta. History Over the course of history, this small archipelago has undergone many invasions and has experienced various civilizations and cultures, including the Phoenicians, the Greeks, Romans and Arabs, until the French and English in more recent times. The origin of the na... [ More information ]

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