If you are thinking about the perfect destination for your family vacation, staying in Italy, Sardinia is the best answer. Crystal clear sea, safe beaches, unspoiled nature and tourist facilities designed even for the little ones. And the best thing? You can reach it comfortably by ferry, taking your car and everything you need for the kids with you, without stress and without giving up.
Why to choose the ferry to Sardinia with children
Traveling by ferry offers many advantages for those with children:
- You can board the car and load up stroller, beach toys, car seat and whatever you need.
- Children can move on board, look at the sea, breathe fresh air and experience the adventure of the “ship.”
- Family cabins available for overnight travel and arriving rested.
The main ports of departure are Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Naples, arriving in Olbia, Golfo Aranci, Porto Torres, Arbatax, and Cagliari.
Sardinia’s best destinations for families with children to reach by ferry
- San Teodoro (near Olbia)
- Ideal beaches: Cala Brandinchi and La Cinta, with shallow water and fine sand.
- Activities: dinghy rides, evening markets, bike rental with child seat.
- Recommended arrival: ferry to Olbia o Golfo Aranci.
- Costa Rei (Southeastern Sardinia)
- Calm and clear sea, long beaches perfect for playing and building sand castles.
- What to do: safe snorkeling, trips to Seven Brothers Park.
- Recommended arrival: ferry to Cagliari.
- La Maddalena (Northeastern Archipelago)
- A natural paradise, perfect for a day trip or a quiet stay.
- Inland ferry from Palau, easily accessible via ferry from Olbia.
- Alghero
- Lively, yet family-friendly city with city beaches and many excursions available.
- Not to be missed: a visit to Neptune’s Caves, which can also be reached by sea.
- Recommended arrival: ferry to Porto Torres.
- Arbatax and Ogliastra
- Less crowded, rich in nature, perfect for those seeking tranquility and clear sea.
- Family activities: mini trekking in Supramonte, visit to Donnortei wildlife park.
- Recommended arrival: ferry to Arbatax from Civitavecchia..
Practical advice for families
- Book the ferry in advance, especially in high season-you’ll find cheaper cabins and fares.
- Check for children’s discounts, family promotions, or overnight routes that are ideal for traveling while children sleep.
- Take along games, light food and tablets with cartoons for the ride.
Booking a cabin: comfort and rest for the whole family
When traveling with children, the choice of cabin can make the difference between a strenuous trip and a relaxing one.
That’s why booking a cabin on the ferry is one of the most recommended options for families:
- Comfort and privacy: ideal for babies to sleep peacefully, change quietly or breastfeed in a private environment.
- Stress-free overnight travel: leaving in the evening and waking up in the morning already in Sardinia is the most convenient solution for those traveling with infants or small children.
- Space for games: there is space in the cabins to spread a blanket with games or coloring books.
- Private bathroom: cabins with toilets are especially practical for families.
Types of cabins suitable for families:
- Standard interior cabin: economical and functional, suitable for resting during the trip.
- Outdoor cabin (with porthole): brighter, often appreciated by children to “look at the sea.”
- Family or quad cabins: spacious, with bunk beds or double beds, ideal for households of 3-4 people.
- Luxury cabins or suites: If you want to treat yourself to a little extra, some companies offer cabins with larger beds, TV and breakfast included.
When to book cabins aboard ferries?
Family cabins are the first to sell out, especially on weekends and in July and August.
We recommend that you book as early as possible to find availability and better rates.
You can compare schedules, prices and cabin availability directly on FerryFinder when booking your route.
Concessions and discounts: when the ferry is convenient for the whole family with children
One of the great advantages of traveling by ferry with children is the opportunity to save money through discounts and promotions dedicated to families.
Many companies offer discounted fares for small passengers and family packages that make the crossing to Sardinia much more affordable.
Children free or reduced rate
- Children under age 3: Generally travel free on ferries (often without seat or bed entitlement, depending on the company).
- Children 3 to 12 years old: most companies apply 50% to 80% discounts on the price of deck passage and cabins.
- Some operators (such as Grimaldi Lines e Tirrenia) periodically offer promotions with free children up to 12 years old on selected routes.
Family packages and fixed-price cabins
- Some promotions include quad cabins at a fixed price, regardless of the age of the children.
- “Car + cabin + family” deals are available that allow you to board your vehicle and stay comfortably without spending a fortune.
Where to find deals on ferries to Sardinia dedicated to families with children
On FerryFinder you can:
- Compare prices of various companies in real time.
- Automatically take advantage of active discounts on ticket prices for children and families.
- Book the most convenient and advantageous ferries for your Sardinia vacation with family and children.
Ferry booking to Sardinia on Ferryfinder
On FerryFinder you can compare the best routes to Sardinia and book family ferries with kids now.
Whether you depart from Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia or Naples, you will find the ideal solution for a peaceful and happy summer with your children.
Also read our article Of useful tips and regulations for traveling by ferry with children
