Traveling by ferry is one of the most convenient and flexible solutions, but one key aspect is often underestimated: the necessary documents. Whether you are traveling on foot, with a vehicle or with animals, the rules can change greatly between European routes and non-EU destinations.
In this Ferryfinder guide you will find everything you need to know to get off to a smooth start.
Documents for traveling by ferry in Europe
Within theEuropean Union, procedures are generally simpler, but that does not mean that controls are absent.
Passengers of legal age
- Valid identity card for expatriation purposes
- Or passport
- Ticket (digital or paper)
Please note: Some companies require the document to be valid for the duration of the trip.
Underage passengers
- Valid identity card for expatriation or passport
- If traveling without both parents: accompanying statement and signed authorization
-
To learn more read our article devoted to passengers under the age of 18 on board ferries.
Rules may vary from country to country; it is always worth checking before departure.
Documents for boarding ferries to non-EU countries
When traveling to non-European countries (such as Albania, Morocco, Tunisia or Turkey), the situation changes.
Required documents
- Valid passport (often with residual validity of at least 6 months)
- Visa (if required by the country of destination)
- Ferry ticket
Additional controls
- Customs control
- Passport control
- Any health documents (in specific cases)
When traveling to nations outside Europe controls are similar to airport controls: always arrive well in advance.
Traveling by ferry on foot: what documents are needed?
If you travel without a vehicle:
- Valid identification document
- Ticket
- Possible visa (non-EU)
Nothing else is needed, but remember:
- some companies require early check-in
- security controls may be in place
Documents to board a vehicle on board ferries
If you are traveling by car, motorcycle, or RV, in addition to personal documents you must have:
Required documents
- Registration certificate
- Valid driver’s license
- Vehicle insurance
If the vehicle is not yours
- Written power of attorney from the owner
- Owner’s document (copy)
Some companies may refuse boarding without permission.
Electric vehicles: rules and documents
Specific regulations for electric vehicles have been introduced in recent years.
What to know
- Statement of battery status (in some cases)
- Limited charge level (often 30-40%)
- Prohibition of on-board charging (with exceptions)
Not all companies have the same rules: always check first.
Commercial vehicles and freight
For commercial vehicles (vans, trucks, freight):
Required documents
- Vehicle documents
- Appropriate driver’s license (C, CE)
- Transportation Documents (CMR)
- Any customs documents (non-EU)
In international travel, the controls are much stricter. We have already written an article on this subject, read it if you want to learn more about boarding commercial vehicles and cargo on board ferries.
Documents to carry bicycles and scooters aboard ferries
More and more people are choosing the bike ferry for sustainable travel, especially to ideal destinations such as. Ibiza, Ponza, Elba Island and Ischia.
Bicycles
- Often considered special baggage
- Possible supplement
- No specific document
Just have the normal ferry travel documents.
Scooters
- Considered luggage or light vehicle
- Restrictions on batteries (if electric)
Traveling by ferry with animals: mandatory documents
Traveling by ferry with pets requires specific documentation.
In Europe
- European animal passport
- Microchip
- Rabies vaccination
Extra EU
- International health certificate
- Any additional tests
- Rules specific to the country of destination
Generally, ferry companies require:
- reservation for the animal
- transportation in dedicated kennels or cabins
Also on the topic of boarding animals on board ferries, we wrote this article which you should read.
Ferryfinder tips to avoid problems
Organizing documents is essential for stress-free ferry travel. The differences between European and non-EU routes, as well as between passengers, vehicles and animals, can be significant. Preparing in advance means avoiding delays, fines or even denial of boarding.
- ✔ Always check the rules of the company.
- ✔ Verify the validity of documents
- ✔ Arrive early at the port.
- ✔ Digital and hard copy holder
- ✔ Find out about the regulations of the destination country.
After verifying all the necessary documents, all that remains is for you to choose your next destination. From Sardinia, Sicily, the Greek islands, the coast of Spain, to routes to destinations outside Europe, you can compare routes and companies and book your ferry quickly and easily on ferryfinder.com .
