Traveling by ferry at night lets you reach your destination faster, but adding the price of a cabin to your ticket can drive up the cost of the crossing. However, there are more economical alternatives: you can choose deck passage, reserve a reclining seat, or, in some cases, find a place to rest for free in the ship’s common areas.
The best option depends on the length of the trip, the ship, and the level of comfort you want. Here’s how to plan for sleeping on board while spending as little as possible.
Can you sleep for free on ferries?
Yes, in some cases it’s possible to rest without booking additional accommodations, but you shouldn’t assume you’ll find a suitable place to stay for the entire night.
Some ferries have common areas with sofas or seats where you can relax during the crossing. If the ferry company allows it and seats are available, these areas can be a free alternative to a cabin or a seat.
However, there are some limitations to consider. There may be few sofas available, they may be occupied by other passengers, or they may not be suitable for sleeping comfortably for several hours. In addition, the rules regarding the use of common areas may vary from one ship to another.
Before setting out, therefore, it’s best to check which spaces are available and whether you’re allowed to use them to rest or sleep at night. It’s not a good idea to book a trip relying solely on the possibility of finding a free sofa.
Furthermore, if the sea is rough, resting on a sofa can become more difficult, especially if the area is exposed to passing passengers or the ship’s rocking motion. Those who suffer from seasickness should also consider this factor before choosing to travel without an assigned seat.
Bridge Passage: The Most Economical Way to Sleep on the Ferry
If you want to save money without relying on the availability of common areas, the deck is the most economical option for sleeping on board the ferry. This arrangement allows you to travel without reserving a cabin or an assigned seat.
The ticket grants access to the areas open to passengers, but does not necessarily guarantee a reserved seat or a place to lie down. During an overnight crossing, you may therefore have to settle for an open seat, if available, or find a place to rest in accordance with the ship’s rules.
One advantage is that the price is generally lower than that of dedicated accommodations. The downside is that it’s less comfortable, especially when the trip lasts several hours.
A deck berth can be a reasonable choice for a short crossing or for those who can get some rest even in less-than-comfortable conditions. For a long overnight trip, however, it’s worth comparing the price difference with that of a reclining seat.
How much does it cost to travel in the deck class? Three examples of prices
The cost of a ticket depends on the route, the season, availability, and fare conditions. As a general guide, you can refer to some indicative minimum prices for connections between the mainland and the major islands.
On the Livorno–Olbia route, fares for a passenger traveling on foot Prices start at around 22 euros. For Civitavecchia–Olbia, you can find prices starting at about 35 euros, while the Numbered seats can start at around 45 euros. On the route Naples–Palermo, GNV public Rates starting at 43 euros for an adult, for a one-way trip without a vehicle, with a deck seat or a chair.
These figures are for reference only and are not guaranteed prices for all departures. They may vary depending on the date, availability, and selected accommodations. Before booking, it is therefore important to verify the actual cost of the trip.
Reclining Chair: Spend Less to Rest Better
A reclining seat is a compromise between deck seating and a cabin. It generally costs less than a private cabin and offers a reserved seat where you can spend the night in greater comfort.
It’s not comparable to a bed, butthe reclining chair lets you sleep on the ferry without having to look for an empty spot in the common areas. It can be particularly useful on medium-length overnight crossings, when you want to arrive at your destination well-rested without paying for a cabin.
How to Prepare for Sleeping on a Ferry Without a Cabin
If you choose a deck passage or want to try resting in the common areas, a few tips can make the crossing less tiring.
First of all, if you’re worried about getting seasick, try to find a spot in the middle of the ship—where the rocking is generally less noticeable—and look at the horizon if you start to feel nauseous. Avoid reading or staring at your phone for long periods if these activities make your symptoms worse.
Bring a sweatshirt or jacket with you: the temperature on board may differ from the temperature outside, and air-conditioned areas can get cold at night. An eye mask and earplugs can also help you rest if there’s light or noise.
If the cruise line and the ship’s rules allow it, a small travel pillow can make your trip more comfortable. However, avoid blocking passageways, stairways, emergency exits, or other areas not designated for passenger use.
Where can I leave my luggage overnight?
When boarding via the gangway, handling your luggage requires a little extra care. The options depend on the ship: there may be lockers or designated storage areas, or you may need to keep your belongings with you.
Before you leave, check to see if there are any lockers or storage areas available and what the terms of use are. Always keep your documents, money, phone, and valuables with you, and never leave your luggage unattended while you sleep.
If you’re traveling with bulky luggage, be sure to take this into account when comparing accommodations: saving money on your ticket is helpful, but the trip must remain manageable and safe.
Deck passage, lounge seat, or cabin: Which is best?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. If your priority is to sleep on the ferry while spending as little as possible, deck class is one of the first options to consider. If you find a common area where you’re allowed to rest, you might not even have to pay for additional accommodations, but you can’t count on finding a suitable place to sleep.
The reclining seat is ideal for those who want a reserved seat and greater comfort without paying the price of a cabin. A cabin, on the other hand, remains the best choice when you want to sleep in a private space, especially on long crossings.
The length of the trip and sea conditions also matter: saving money on a short crossing can be easy, while spending an entire night without a comfortable place to rest can make the trip much moretiring. If you suffer from seasickness or if rough seas, carefully consider the comfort of your accommodations, rather than basing your choice solely on price.
- Be sure to read our in-depth article on the differences between inside and outside cabins on ferries and our article on how to sleep in a berth.
What if you’re traveling with a pet?
If you’re traveling with a dog or cat, be sure to check the rules regarding pets. Not all airlines allow pets in the lounge areas or all common areas, and you may need to book a pet-friendly reservation to bring them into the cabin. You must also include your pet in your reservation, in accordance with the carrier’s terms and conditions.
If you want to save money, check before you leave where your pet can stay during the crossing. Choosing deck passage or a seat without checking the boarding rules could turn out to be impractical. If rough seas are expected, also consider how your four-legged companion handles the tripand ask your veterinarian for advice if you have any doubts.
Compare ferry prices and choose the most affordable option
To save money, don’t just look at the initial ticket price. Compare departure times and see what types of accommodations you can book, taking into account the duration of the crossing and the level of comfort you need.
On FerryFinder, you can compare ferry routes, companies, and prices, and explore the available options to plan your trip based on your budget.
Search for your route on FerryFinder and compare the available options to travel on a budget.
FAQs: How to Sleep on a Ferry Without Spending Much
As we have seen, it is sometimes possible to rest or sleep for free on ferries by making use of seating in shared areas. Alternatively, the cheapest and most common option for travellers who want to avoid paying for a cabin is to lie down on the sofas in the open-deck passenger areas, where permitted. Finally, reclining seats that can be booked in advance are the most comfortable alternative to berths.
In short, if you want to sleep on board a ferry for free or at a low cost, there are ways to avoid paying for a cabin. If you have any other questions, check out these frequently asked questions from travellers.
What time should you wake up if you sleep in the open-deck passenger area?
There is no single wake-up time that applies to every ferry. If your crossing arrives early in the morning, you can rest until shortly before disembarkation, following the announcements and crew instructions. Keep in mind that disembarkation procedures may begin before the ferry reaches port, so organise your luggage in advance to avoid having to get ready at the last minute.
Can you sleep in the open-deck passenger area in winter?
Yes, but it is important to choose carefully where to spend the night. Outdoor areas can be cold and windy, while indoor spaces may offer more comfortable conditions. Access to different areas depends on the vessel and the ferry operator’s rules. Bring a sweatshirt or a warm jacket, and check which areas passengers are allowed to use during the crossing.
Is a ticket enough to sleep in the open-deck passenger area?
Yes, a ticket with open-deck passage allows you to travel without booking a cabin or an assigned reclining seat. However, it does not guarantee a place where you can lie down or sleep comfortably. You must use the areas designated for passengers and follow the crew’s instructions. If you want a reserved seat, check the availability of reclining seats or other accommodation options offered by the ferry operator.
Are reclining seats located in heated or air-conditioned areas?
It depends on the vessel and the seating lounge. Indoor areas may have heating or air conditioning, but temperatures can vary during the crossing. Even in summer, when the air conditioning is running, bringing a sweatshirt can help you rest more comfortably.
Where are the quietest places to settle down on a ferry?
Noise levels depend on the layout of the vessel, the number of passengers and the proximity of bars, restaurants, stairways and walkways. If you are travelling with open-deck passage, look for a quiet place where sitting or resting is permitted, away from busy areas. If you book a reclining seat, you can ask the ferry operator whether it is possible to choose a quieter lounge. Earplugs and an eye mask may also help you rest.
Can I bring food to eat in the open-deck passenger area?
You can generally bring snacks and food for the journey, but it is advisable to check the ferry operator’s terms and any restrictions. Choose food that is easy to carry and eat, bring a bottle of water, and keep shared areas clean. If you suffer from seasickness, avoid heavy meals and alcohol before and during the crossing.
Can I sleep with my dog or cat in a pet carrier?
Generally, yes, but it depends on the ferry operator, the vessel and its pet policies. The fact that your dog or cat is travelling in a carrier does not automatically mean it can stay with you in every shared area or seating lounge. Before booking, check where your pet is allowed to stay, whether it must remain in its carrier, and which accommodation options are available. For an overnight crossing, also consider your pet’s comfort and needs, especially on longer journeys.
