Changing programs? No problem. If you have already booked a ferry and need to move your departure, in many cases you can change the date and time of your ticket. In this guide we explain when you can change your reservation, how to do it online or over the phone, how much it costs, and what the policies of the major ferry companies are.
Table of Contents:
- Can I change the date in the ferry ticket?
- How to change the date of the ferry ticket
- How much does it cost to change the date – Shipping company policies
- Penalties for changing the date of ferry tickets
- Why can’t I change the date of the ferry ticket?
- Useful tips from Ferryfinder
- What to do if the ferry departure is cancelled due to rough sea?
Can I change the date and time in the ferry ticket?
Generally yes, you can change the date and time of departure on the ferry ticket, but beware of some factors to consider :
- Chosen fare: Only flexible fares allow free or reduced cost changes. Promotional fares (such as “Best Offer,” “Low Cost”) are often not changeable.
- Time remaining at departure: almost all companies allow change up to 2 hours in advance, others require at least 24 or 48 hours.
- Availability on the new date: If the ferry on the requested date is full, the change will not be possible.
How to change the departure date in the ferry ticket
Okay, now that you have decided to change the date or time of your departure, let’s see how to change the ferry ticket you had already booked.
1. Edit online (the easiest method)
Many companies allow you to edit your reservation directly online, via the “Manage Reservation” area:
If you have booked through Ferryfinder you have received your ticket electronically on your smartphone: enter your personal area and change the date yourself in a few clicks
- Enter reservation number and last name
- Select new date
- Accept any penalties or surcharges
- Confirm the change
- Link: Moby / Tirrenia SNAV, Grimaldi Lines, Assistenza GNV
2. Change of date via call center
Call the company’s customer service and let them know:
- Reservation number
- Passenger name
- New date requested
In this case, operators will tell you the costs, availability, and how to complete the procedure to change the date and time of the ferry ticket.
3. Changing your ferry ticket at the ticket office
If you are at the port or near an official ticket office, you can also request the change in person. Useful for urgent changes, but depends on seat availability.
Sometimes there are also ATMs where you can make the change as an alternative to traditional ticketing.
Whether electronic or paper, you will need to present your original ticket for the date or time change of your new departure. You may also need to show identification.
Once you complete the date or time change, you will receive your new ticket with the updated departure.
How much does it cost to change the departure date and time on the ferry ticket? Company policies
Each company has different rules. Depending on the carrier and the type of fare purchased, you may be required to pay a penalty or price difference for changing your ferry ticket. Below you will find an updated summary.
Date changes and penalties for major ferry companies
Moby/Tirrenia
- Date change: Yes
- Penalty/Supplements: Free with flexible rate, penalty with other rates
- Until when: Up to 2 hours before departure
GNV
- Date change: Yes
- Penalty/Surcharges: Penalty + any rate difference
- Until when: Within 48 hours
Grimaldi Lines
- Date change: Yes
- Penalty/Supplements: Fixed penalty (from €30) + price difference
- Until when: Within 2 days
SNAV
- Date change: Yes
- Penalty/Supplements: Variable penalty, according to tariff
- Until when: Within 24 hours
Please note: If the new date costs more, you will have to pay the difference. If it costs less, you usually do not get a refund .
Penalties for changing departure date of ferry tickets
The penalties for changing the date of ferry tickets vary depending on the ferry company and the timing with which the change is requested. It is important to know that if the change is requested less than 2 hours before departure or in the event of a no-show, you will not be able to change your ticket and will need to purchase a new ticket.
Below is a summary of the average penalties that apply in general:
- Up to 30 days before departure: usually the penalty is around 10%-25% of the ticket value.
- Between 29 and 7 days earlier: the penalty tends to be higher, generally between 30% and 50%.
- Between 6 days and 2 hours before departure: penalty can be up to 50%-70%.
Why can’t I change the date of the ferry ticket?
As we have seen it is generally possible to change the date in the ferry ticket, independently and in a few steps. However, in some cases the change is not possible, generally it is a matter of time constraints or lack of available seats for the new date you have chosen. Be patient and let’s figure out why you cannot make the date change on your ferry ticket.
- You purchased a non-changeable ticket (often referred to as “non-refundable” or “special offer”)
- You have already checked in
- Very little time before departure (some companies block changes 1 or 2 hours before)
- The ferry for the new date is sold out
Need help? FerryFinder is with you
On FerryFinder you will find useful guides, company comparisons and direct links to manage your booking. If you need assistance, write to us or consult the routes section to find out all the options available to change or cancel a trip.
Remember that each company has different policies, so it is essential to consult the specific terms and conditions when purchasing your ticket. Promotional or special fares may not be changeable, so it is always best to read the terms carefully before booking ferries.
Also, the sooner you make the change, the lower the penalty will be, so if you know your date might change, try to make the change as soon as possible.
What to do if the ferry departure is cancelled due to rough sea?
In this case no worries, be patient and read our article on delays and postponed departures due to adverse weather conditions.
