Operated by Grimaldi Lines on the Brindisi Igoumenitsa & Brindisi Patras routes
The Catania ferry carries up to 840 passengers and 160 cars and offers an array of onboard facilities to keep you entertained during the crossing including a self-service restaurant, a choice of bars, a casino, a shop, a children’s play area and a choice of cabins.
Onboard you'll find comfortable air conditioned en-suite cabins with a choice of both inside and sea view (outside). The Catania also has 2 luxury suites with double beds as well as 2 cabins designed for disabled passengers. Each cabin contains 2 standard beds, 2 foldaway beds, a writing desk, a 4 door wardrobe, a mirror and a small armchair. In addition, the 2 Luxury suites feature a bedroom with a double bed, a TV set and a living room with a divan with double bedding.
For those who prefer not to book a cabin there are 62 reclining seats available.
Meals are available in a spacious and elegant self-service restaurant with a choice of many different dishes on offer. The Vesuvio Club bar features a comfortable cafe room while in the outdoor sun deck bar (open in summer) you can have a drink and relax on one of the deckchairs in the sun.
You’ll find the onboard shop selling numerous products and souvenirs on the Catania.
Additional Onboard Facilities - Grimaldi Lines - Catania
Children are well catered for with Grimaldi Lines and the Catania features a dedicated child’s play area to keep younger passengers occupied during the trip.
Assisted can be provided if required however you will need to inform the staff on arrival at the port. The Catania contains 2 cabins designed for disabled passengers.
Please Note: Whilst we have taken great care in making our Catania guide as accurate as possible, onboard facilities, services and entertainment may vary depending on the date and time of year that you travel, facilities mentioned may change without notification and ferry companies reserve the right to operate vessels other than those mentioned at time of booking without prior notification.
25% of our customers recommended this ship
"Painful"
Waiting louange open air at midnight freezing ,not ordre to board the ferry ,people pushing each other. Canons ok confortable if you are lucky to share it with respectful people ,beware of children! Could be a nightmare . Food ok,personnel ok .
Reviewed by Veronica who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Good for Dogs"
I had a dog in a cabin. The cabin was very close to the deck and convenient for getting outside without causing any fuss with other passengers. The cabin was good value and comfortable.
Reviewed by Steven who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Disappointed"
They didn't have chance to make Trip, because the staff from Grimaldi's ferry's have closed office for checking early. I have been with 2 other car passengers one Italian lady and great Britain mean were out of travel. I am shocked... I came from Salerno Italy same company to Tunisia I made check in 2 hours before, but this Tunisian are not respectful, I'm sorry I said this. I will make big reclamation, I am late for my work, I have long trip to Finland, and I head to stay 3 nights more in hotel, and spend money, my emotions are so bead. I am not happy with this what happened. Sincerely Babuna
Reviewed by Astrit Hasan who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Lovely views"
I would not recommend anyone take this ferry unless they booked a cabin. Cabins seem ok - someone kindly let me use the bathroom in their cabin, because the inadequate at best public toilet, was not working well and dirty. I had booked a seat ( daytime ferry) and the room with the seats was awful - broken seats, buts in the floor. Crew was nice. Food was better than expected. As long as you stayed on the top deck and dudn’t Have to use the bathroom, it was fine.
Reviewed by Susan who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Grim & Grotty Lines"
Purchased an overnight cabin with a window from Palermo to Salerno. The cabin stunk of smoke, despite no smoking signs. The toilet in the cabin stank of urine & faeces. There were no towels provided in the room, we had to asking for them. Air con was horrendously loud and ineffective. The entire cabin looked and felt dirty. Disembarking was chaotic, disorganised and it was as if it was the very first time they had ever disembarked. Many members of staff stood around smoking. You get what you pay for- overnight accommodation & access to the Amalfi Coast...
Reviewed by Sion who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Tiring journey"
I turned up three hours prior to departure only to be told the ferry was late in, meaning a three hour wait in hot sun. This meant we were late into Tunis and too late to find a hotel, so I had to stay up all night until I could find somewhere open. At least I have a tale to tell.
Reviewed by Paul who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Bad experience"
Unable to find the ticket office as not marked. Delayed departure by two hours. Uncomfortable beds , uncontrollable air conditioning, dining area dirty and chaotic and buffet food looked old. Morning coffee in a plastic cup and Cornetto rubbery. Not a good experience at all and not cheap.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"bad experience"
Be sure that you will not find a WC at all in the morning. The sheep is very slow and no place to seat.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Dreadful experience "
Filthy antiquated ship with shambolic organisation for boarding and leaving
Reviewed by Richard who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Okay, but confusing for foot passengers "
It was really unclear where to go as foot passenger. I asked the guy at the ticket desk but my italian was limited and I ended up wandering around until someone from customs stopped me. Ferry was okay, wouldn't recommend the food - expensive and not great. Cabin was okay.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Terrible experience, I would never take Grimaldi again"
Total confusion at the boarding. We arrived more than 120 minutes before departure as per the website and nothing was open. We waited two hours before we could checkin. Once we checked in we went to the gate not well indicated at all so we made a few uturns. Once in line, we will waited another hour before boarding, all the trucks and pedestrians could go in but not the cars. Horrible experience waiting in the sun with no facilities. Once on board, the room was ok. We had lunch and dinner during the crossing, the lunch was fine but the dinner was cold. Everyone kept returning their plates. Just for clarity, wr took the catania from palermo to salerno. The ship over state was dirty, I kept washing my hands all day
Reviewed by Denys who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Chaos"
Boarding was disorganised chaos. Would never use this ferry company again staff were surly and ignorant thought they were doing you a favour!!2
Reviewed by Robert who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"It is ok"
We took the ship from tunis to palermo. There are many tunisians on board with many luggages. Suggest to arrive the terminal 2 hours before and make it less hassle. The check in+securuty check is quite smooth. We had two bed cabinet, it is as it shown on their website. Don't expect any cruise shio fancy thing but the bed is ok. Staff are ok on the ship. The restaueant a bit chaotic, many people sleep on the sofa in there, a bit noisy. The food is horrible and not cheap. So maybe better bring your own food. Better have your own cabinet if you are group of two. It is ok for traveling to destination, don't expect anything more.
Reviewed by Timothy who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Not Bad"
The ship is showing it's age.Many people who don't have a cabin to sleep and sleep in the lounge take thete.places as soon as they come on board,occypying many tables and booths.This needs to be addressed.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Disaster"
I was circumvented by this company and caused me physical and moral damage. I attended the trip three hours before I found someone representing this alleged company.I will file a legal complaint against this alleged company.Caused material damage more than 1000 euros and moral damage
Reviewed by Sabri who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Appalling"
We were told to arrive at least two hours ahead of departure time, which we did. we were told that there was a 'delay', and were given a bottle of water and a voucher for a cafe which did not seem to exist. Some four and a half hours later, we were allowed to board. There was filth and chaos everywhere. We had trouble getting to our cabin, as just about every spare space in the corridors was filled with people sleeping or resting on blankets, etc. The cabin was fine, apart from the fact that, when the sheets were pulled back, they were fouled with excrement. In addition, we were told to leave the cabin some two hours before arrival, as 'we had arrived' (staff's words), and they had to change the bedding(!). We then had to find, with little success, a seat outside, as all the interior ones were covered with people sleeping on them. I have never been so relieved to get off a vessel; the whole trip was a farce, and a disgrace to the company. never again, Grimaldi.
Reviewed by Rachael who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"A Horrible experience"
If you can afford to fly and don't need to take a car with you to or from Salerno/Palermo then avoid using the ferry at all costs!! My wife and I were staying near Salerno so we decided to take the ferry to Sicily for the second part of our holiday. We were foot passengers and booked a long time ahead. We liked the idea of getting the night ferry from Salerno to Palermo so that none of our holiday time was wasted with travelling as we would be sleeping on the ferry. We had a text from Grimaldi a few days before to tell us that the sailing would be half an hour later than scheduled (00.30 instead of 23.59) which was fair enough but that is where the good experience ended! We are used to cross channel ferries where there is a terminal for foot passengers to use and assumed that the same would be the case in Salerno. We also took the opportunity of asking the security chap on the gates of the port earlier in the day when we should turn up (as we had to factor in returning the hire car etc...). He said the gates opened at 20.00 so we dropped off the car in Salerno as arranged at 19.00 and got a taxi with our luggage to the port. 1. There is no passenger terminal at Salerno (and as far as I could see the next day none at Palermo either). 2. The Gates did not open as suggested, indeed the ferry didn't even turn up until gone 10pm. 3. All the passengers had to stand or sit outside the gates of the port on the public highway/pavement. There were no benches or indeed seating of any sort whatsoever. We stood or sat on the curb. Luckily we had mossie gel with us or we would have been eaten alive! It was hot, but it was night time. Had it been day time it would have been dangerous to wait as long as we did as there was no shade either and Salerno in early September is jolly hot. 4. Grimaldi ferries are not the roll on roll off ferries we are used to in the English Channel. They are old fashioned drive on and off at the same end. This makes loading and unloading vehicles a slow process, made even worse by the fact that they do not put lorry tractor units on the vessel so every single lorry trailer has to be individually driven on or off individually by little tractor units operated by the Port. It took over two hours to unload the ferry when it finally arrived. All the time the passengers were still outside the port gates watching and sitting on the pavement. The cars going on the ferry were also not allowed into the port and the road and roundabout just outside the port gates became a big car park. Bizarre and not at all safe. 5. The process of checking in was positively wacky! Out of each group or family one person had to take the ID documents and tickets for himself and the others in his party to a portakabin about 100 yards inside the port. Transport to this cabin was by means of a small mini bus. The man in the cabin did not look in the two passports that I provided him with, he simply glanced at their covers and then issued our boarding passes. This whole procedure meant that it was impossible for either the port authorities or Grimaldi to have any idea at all of the actual identity of the passengers on the ship. Nor did we have to show a boarding pass when we were finally allowed to enter the port or on entering the ship itself so it would have been remarkably easy to travel without a ticket. Grimaldi thus cannot have known even how many people were actually on the ship. The safely and security implications of such lax procedures are obvious! 6. When the port gates were finally opened the cars were allowed to drive in first. The foot passengers remained outside on the public road where I would add that there was no lavatory. Nor was there any facility whatsoever for the elderly or disabled. There were a number of families present with small children. 7. Eventually the foot passengers were allowed to enter the port. The first lot were picked up by a mini bus. The rest were then told just to walk through the po
Reviewed by Andrew who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Just a late departure "
Boarding was delayed because every car coming off the ferry was being searched by the authorities. Our voyage arrived in Salerno two hours late which for us was no great inconvenience because the scheduled arrival was very early in the morning.
Reviewed by Stephen who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Awful organisation"
Apart from poor antonio, who seemed to be a one man band and was actually sitting on his motorbike begging for the walking passengers to be allowed on 2 hours after the time, the organisation out of Italy was dreadful. We arrived at 6.20 pm for our 11.59 pm trip only to be mucked around with the check in process, dropped back out to the gates and then left until after 2am until being walked on in pure chaos. Once on board we realised nothing had been cleaned. The toilets were covered in poo and toilet paper was sticking to shoes it was so thick! No sleep was had. Over 17 hours and not a nice way to finish our holiday to Italy.
Reviewed by Alan who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Didn't even get let on"
The website notes that we can board on last call an hour before. Myself and 3 other passengers were left to not take the ferry even though we got there 1h15 min before departure. The agent who was working (who didn't even work for grimaldi) told us they wouldn't explain why they weren't letting us on. LACK OF COMMUNICATION! We checked in, went through border control and security and were not let on regardless. Don't waste your time and money.
Reviewed by Catherine who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"poor operator offers second rate service to Africa"
Interesting to see how a European operator feels able to offer such a poor service, I suspect because the destination is African. Foot passengers have to wait for trucks etc to unload before entering via the car deck (I had to wait outside on the dock with no facilities for almost 2 hours to board, when returning from Italy). Food poor and small portions vutr expensive, service poor, and the cabin hard various fixings broken. The sailing itself was fine but companies should be shamed for their attitude to largely Tunisian customers.
Reviewed by Calum who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"A total mess, but not much choice"
Awful experience all the way long, in both directions, but not much choice when you want to travel with your car between Tunisia and Italy, as the competition ( GNV) is at least as bad. On the Palermo side, you don’t get ANY indication: where the line starts, where to check in etc. A 3hr minimum delay seems guaranteed. Add to that a standard 4 hrs waiting for the customs and police clearance twice per trip ( departure and arrival), especially on the Italian side, and your 11hr trip becomes a 20-22hr long one. It’s better to get a private cabin, even for a daytime trip , even if you’re alone. Most passengers and service crew are totally undisciplined. Smoking everywhere, people lying / sleeping on floors in corridors, etc.. I would rate zero for all the one stars below. Navig. crew is ok
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Good experience"
A last minute decision to catch the ferry from Salerno to Palermo rather than drive all the way down the coast. Good price, with only a little more for a basic inside cabin. A little rough crossing, but not too bad. Very little food offered for breakfast, a bit disappointing.
Reviewed by Alan who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Avoid Salerno"
The Grimaldi ferry “port” at Salerno for foot passengers was non-existent. Instead passengers huddled at a freight gate for hours, waiting for permission to enter. Ferry itself was standard, but Grimaldi Lines was totally insulting to its few foot passengers.
Reviewed by Christopher who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Afloat in palermo"
Simple to book but not easy to get on to the Catania and almost as difficult to get off. Relaxed and protracted immigration service at Palermo led to v late sailing. Ensure you have time and relax and enjoy the trip.
Reviewed by Stephen who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Change of schedule 28 January 2018"
The quality of the ship and facilities was fine. What was not good was the consequences of the change of vessel and schedule. Firstly the delay in crossing of 4 hours was emailed to me AFTER I had already started my journey to the port. I just had to accept the change in departure from 19.00 to 23.00. NO REASON WAS GIVEN. Second - there are no passenger facilities at Palermo. No waiting room etc. It was a good time particularly cold night. When the check-in cabin opened about 19.30, I was told that I should be able to check-in and board soon after 20.00. This was not true. I eventually boarded at almost 23.00, for the departure just before midnight. That meant a total wait on a cold quayside of around 7 hours. I find that unacceptable and could have been avoided if Grimaldi had emailed e.g. the day before. It is also annoying that Grimaldi staff at the time of port were not truthful about the reason for the delay - both the reason for 4 hr late arrival, and the extra 3 hours delay in boarding. Better communication in key to a satisfied passenger.
Reviewed by Philip who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Tunis to Palermo"
The ship left with 3 hours delay. I was told in advance about one and half hour delay but not 3 hours. No announcement kept passengers informed. At the last police control before boarding the ferry, I had 140 dinars left with me. The police custrom officer claimed that was illegal and to let me pass he asked for a tip... I refused to do to so. 140 dirams was not an illegal amount and as I am going to be back in Tunisia in April, I am going to spend that money there. The staff was rude both before boarding and on the boat
Reviewed by Daniele who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Nightmare voyages"
Two utterly disgusting journeys never to be repeated. The only good thing to be said is that the passenger terminal in Tunis is well designed and well run by courteous staff. On the outward and return voyages sailing was delayed by many hours. The ship was dirty and badly maintained. The toilets were filthy and in constant use for every kind of ablution. The floors could hardly be walked on as so many people had put down bedding and were sleeping on them. The noise of children screaming never abated. The food looked and smelled vile. The ferry staff were evidently working hard to serve people and try to maintain hygiene standards but with such numbers it was a losing battle. There was no passenger terminal at Palermo just endless waiting in queues watching passengers being treated with contempt by arrogant police and customs officials. On the return journey from Palermo we stood for hours in extreme cold without access to toilet facilities. I wouldn’t wish the whole horrible experience on Adolf Hitler let alone my worst enemy.
Reviewed by William who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Good option to avoid driving"
Good ferry connection but delayed by over 2 hours. Cabin was clean and had all the necessary facilities.
Reviewed by Anna who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Not a Professional Service and Over Crowded"
I received an email notification just a few hours before travel informing me the travel has been delayed by 7 hours, if not convenient I can travel after a weeks time or request my money back. Many other passengers did not receive the notification. It then sailed 3 hours after the rescheduled time. When booking it stated I had a cabin but there was not a cabin available when I arrived. The ship appeared to be extremely over crowded, as there wasn't even a spare chair or even a space on the floor to lay down as hundreds of people had put their mattress and bedding on the floor which took up all available space. It was not because they were quick or first to grab a space but because the boat appeared to take more people than it could cater for. The ship looked like a refugee ship with over crowded people and insufficient space to walk without stepping over people. The food which I bought was cold. I witnessed a member of staff yelling at a passenger, he was totally unprofessional and very rude, in what was an unnecessary situation as he could have approached the passenger politely and passed on his message as a consequence of his actions there was almost a riot from on lookers. I am English but a high majority of passengers were Arabic and appeared to be treated as second class citizens or beggars. The facilities were limited, my return travel was with a different company so I was able to compare, the other company was a 100% better in all aspects; space, lounge areas, food, treatment, promptness, evening entertainment with a live singer, various shops, children's play room, various restaurants, lots of sleeping places, 3 different movie rooms, lots of choice of where to sit. It seemed as though Grimaldi Lines had over filled the ship exceeding its capacity to gain the maximum money, it seemed like the Titanic waiting to happen. I would never you this company again.
Reviewed by Nathalie who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Time "
Not ones not twice but three times I traveled with the company and when it comes to the arrival destination they are very good because they are on time all the time and that my opinion.
Reviewed by Kias who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Very Nice Room"
Once we got to the room, it was more than we had hoped for. However, getting there was a very long and difficult process. There was no organized procedure for cars to enter the shipyard...we arrived on time but had to wait an additional hour in the heat, and then cars piled through the gate in a haphazard fashion. If cars had been lined up as they arrived, and later arrivals lined up behind them around the parking area, once boarding happened it would have been much better. We finally entered the yard, and were placed in rows to begin boarding, but nobody told us that the paper reservation had to be converted into actual tickets! If my wife hadn't figured this out in the nick of time, we would have been sent back to acquire them, which would have set us back another hour or so. We felt very bad for the people we saw this happening to. Once we were on the ship, we were fine, but getting there was an absolute nightmare. I recommend the ship, but not the process used to get us on board.
Reviewed by Charles who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Getting on takes so much time"
We waited so much time before getting on ferry. I mean so much delay time.
Reviewed by Tolga who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Basic and functional "
After endless queuing to actually get on the boat, we were ignored by the fellow at the information desk on board when we asked for directions to our reserved seats in the Pullman lounge. We eventually found the lounge thanks to the much more friendly and helpful Filipino staff. The seats in the lounge are worn and many are broken. It was not the standard we expected given we have been on many similar car ferries previously. There was no monitoring of who came into the lounge so we why pay extra for reserved seats? There was no food available for lunch and the evening meal provided was basic but edible. We could not understand the announcements and in fact were fortunate another passenger assisted us to find the exit and get off in Palermo! We will avoid this boat and fly in future.
Reviewed by Catherine who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Great experience "
We took the ship from Palermo to Salerno and had a great experience. However, the bed may not be long enough for those who are more than 190cm.
Reviewed by Jin Jie who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Excellent service"
Punctuality and organization during boarding and landing procedures in Brindisi and Igoumenitsa. Good service on board, cleaning and staff. Excellent.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Brindisi Igoumenitsa"
Comfortable and quiet trip. With no issue. Arrived in Greece with 30 minutes delay.
Reviewed by Fernando who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Goin' on a Grimaldi"
Always fun sailing with Grimaldi - food is great, staff are friendly and helpful. Better than going from Ancona!
Reviewed by Korky Paul illustrator who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Very good trip"
Very good and comfortable journey.
Reviewed by Georgi who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Trip unconfortable "
No control on the seat lounge, the reserved seats were occupied
Reviewed by Antonio who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"boring trip but on time"
departure on time, boarding process very confusing
Reviewed by Giorgio who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"bad"
people sleeping everywhere like wide animals, impossible to find a place where to seat. I had to sleep on the floor
Reviewed by Raffaele who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Brindisi - igoumenitsa"
Very pleasant. Good food. Everything went smoothly!
Reviewed by Richard who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"positive feedback"
I'm travelling every year with this company and I'm always happy. Departure on time, clean and tidy cabin, nice staff and good restaurant
Reviewed by Paola who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"bad trip"
always late due to the bad organization at the port during the boarding process. At least all the staff is nice
Reviewed by Guido who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"good journey"
İn spite of checking in late the port staff were extremely helpful and we were loaded in plenty of time for a prompt departure. The purser and his staff were a delight to deal with. The cabin was excellent - clean and comfortable. The only let down was the dining department with the food a disappointment and the staff giving the impression they were doing a duty shift more than they wanted to.
Reviewed by Leonora who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"not recommended"
old ship, dirty toilets. Not recommended
Reviewed by Massimo who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Brindisi/Igoumenitsa"
all perfect
Reviewed by Rosario who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Brindisi patras"
Brindisi is a lovely town however the boat Catania is truely awful.
Reviewed by Mark who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Pleasant stay "
I had a relaxing overnight journey from Patras to Brindisi - the facilities are slightly dated, but fully functioning. Disembarking is a nightmare and should be better organised but other than that I would highly recommend this ferry service!
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Grimaldi Lines can't touch Moby Lines"
We have travelled several times on board various ships. This year, we travelled with Grimaldi Lines from Brindisi to Igoumenitsa. This crossing is only recommended for freight. We had to book a cabin because there was no other accommodation left. The cabin was ok. On deck, there were no seats or chairs available. The restaurant was overcrowded and did not have enough food. We all had to leave early because apparently it had to be cleaned, so everyone had to leave the restaurant and find somewhere else to sit. We headed for our cabin booked and discovered that we were supposed to check out at 22:30. The arrival time was 01.30, meaning we were stuck with our luggage, and in the crowded hallway. Worthless trip.
Reviewed by Marian who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"not really good"
air conditioning inside the cabin too strong. Check-in time too long
Reviewed by Michele who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"my opinion"
I travelled from Italy to Greece and the ship was full of people sleeping everywhere. I can suggest you, if you don't have children, to don't pay for the cabin, you can stay on the carpet just with a sleeping bag. Staff on board not polite at all. Departure on time with the arrival was 1 hour late.
Reviewed by Tommaso who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Great trip"
Good accommodation, great service, I would always use them!!
Reviewed by Marie Claire who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"shame"
it's a shame that at some point the travel has to finish. Everything perfect even with a simply deck space. Perfect trip. I'm already planning my next trip with Grimaldi. And obviously I'll book again with DirectFerries, they are perfect, friendly and professional. Recommended!!!!
Reviewed by Marcello who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"good"
all good, comfortable trip. I would like to suggest only one thing: we should have more restrictions during the night crossing, because there are always people screaming and drinking.
Reviewed by Giovanni who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Car ferry Brindis-Igoumenitsa-Brindisi and travel booking "
My first booking with direct ferries and first crossing from Italy to Greece (back in 2013, back in January 2014). Booking and reservation was not a problem. Thank directly ferries also for the timely notification (3 days before trip) that the return trip been delayed by 2 hours This is despite the Internet service reservation, I commend me 5 little tips.: Allow 1) on additional bookings (food, etc) is cheaper than paying on board 2) refer to the additional costs for Credit Card Payment 3) strongly emphasize the words in the Reserv confirmation to pick up the ticket at the terminal, 4) indicate the opening times of the switches in the ferry ports To achieve 5) direct ferries 24 hours by phone All in all I was surprised that everything (!) Went well, if you are used to fly ... Both ships are identical. The Sorrento was in better condition than the Catania. The problem was the arrival of Bari in the Brindisi harbor. It started already with the fact that the highway toll (Brenner Bari) in Bari (exit to Brindisi) could only be paid in cash (no card only cash ~ 71 EUR). Despite good description in the reservation confirmation I had to Brindisi Ferry found without navigation only after several attempts. Until Brindisi the signs went, but after missing the signs or was totally overgrown with bushes. When I arrived at 7 clock in the morning there were not many people I could have asked for in this remote area. The ticket desk in the port terminal of Grimaldi Lines opened at 9 clock and I got the Embroidered problems based on the confirmation of direct ferries. The terminal itself is m. E. a bleak and barren place, waiting for the ferry is not relieved here. The ferry itself (Sorrento) was good and I was well briefed by both the vehicle deck as well as from the on-board reception and other personnel on board. It was on the parking deck just very close to, but that was okay. Bodverpflegung the quality and price was a department store restaurant par. I was able to strengthen me with 2 meals good for later ride. In addition to a casino, there was no Zersträungsmöglichkeiten, the instructed seat, an airplane chair similar, does not offer much opportunity to lie " long " to - back problems are announced. Great, I found that one to two ferries for the car has to lie down (mitnemen ceiling, otherwise it will be very cold in winter). The return ferry (Catania) had only two toilets for all passengers and had been otherwise prepared only provisionally. I saw it this way, that this ship had renovation work and was recalled at short notice. The food went, but was not as good as on the Sorrento. The travel times were more or less on time. The ferry port in Igoumenitsa was first class (!) Compared to Brindisi, both on arrival and on the return trip. The terminal is a real residence where you can expect the exit with restaurants, cafes and even the Fährschalter are clearly arranged. A very different picture than in Brindisi. The highway leads directly into the port, petrol stations are right on the harbor there, because there are only 3 stations on the A2 to Ipsala (Turkey), of whom two were closed and at night next to the highway just a few Takstellen have opened in Greece (Thessaloniki are it again at night open gas stations, with Navi POI's duty should be be night driving). The new A2 motorway in Greece (Igoumenitsa-Ipsala) I liked very well, good covering (still new), well secured, small picnic areas, clear speed data, toll 7x2, 50EUR located (up Ipsala) and very scenic. Since I will stay next time in a few places longer. All police, immigration and customs checks went hassle free and were were reasonable. It was for mi
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Fine transfer "
Had the pleasure to take the ferry from Cagliari to Palermo Which was a good experience!
Reviewed by Dirk who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Wonderful sea journey"
Arriving to Greece at this way is something I really can recommend. So many times you take the plane and you can't see that Greece is so much sea.
Reviewed by Majgreth who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"miserable "
.. "Never again Grimaldi The ship had four hours late, but there was no information to travelers through reason and duration of the delay, we sat on the deck and had to wait -., Without information The staff - including reception - was inkompetetent and disinterested . There was only shrug. Upon my complaint mail was not responded. The food expensive and miserable. Never again Grimaldi. I can only advise. Hans-goods storm "
Reviewed by Hans-günter who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Car ferry Igumimitza-Brindisi "
When we booked car ferry, it was a,-down already getting old ship. The staircase in the lower car deck was undisguised and dirty. Climbing the stairs with hand luggage (5 - 6 floors) to the cabin deck was extremely laborious and cope for older passengers hardly. The rooms were not very clean and the shower was missing everything. Our cabin was stuffy and hot. Upon entering the cabin once had to be turned on the air conditioning. For the upper beds there were only a conductor. I got only a table and a chair in my bed. Three days before this crossing we took the Blue Star of Patmos to Piraeus. What a luxury compared to the ship. For us (4 people) comes a booking with this ferry out of the question again. In the morning we drunk a coffee(??) Drunk, that you could not even call a coffee. Drink could be described. The best thing about our crossing was really fresh and tasty croissant.
Reviewed by Hedwig Maria Jansen who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Motorcycle Touring Holiday"
We booked with Grimaldi with little knowledge of the ships. Both ships turned out to be efficient vessels with sufficient facilities for an overnight sea voyage. On each leg of our journey our outside cabins were clean, well equipped and with good beds (had a double bed in the return trip cabin. We were travelling by Ducati and found the whole check-in and boarding procedure quick and straight forward. Only downside was arriving at Igoumenista at 3.00am and having to disembark as the ferry was travelling on to Patras. I presumed that the journey end was in Igoumenitsa and that we could sleep on until 7.00am. I was so wrong and it lead to a hurried disembarkation.
Reviewed by Stephen Parker who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Patras Brindisi"
I had a very good journey, thanks also to the weather, the trip was long but peaceful, we left Patras at 5 and in the ferry there were few people, all afternoon was quiet. When we arrived at Igoumenitsa in the evening the ferry started to became crowded, we had the cabin so it wasn't really a problem for us, we could manage to sleep quite good, the only negative aspect was the disembarking procedure which was a little bit slow, I think that in order to improve the service they should create more entertainment on board.
Reviewed by Angelo who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"High and low"
The outbound trip on board of the "Catania" ship was normal, the ferry was on time and also the boarding and disembark operations were quite fast; The return, with the "Sorrento" ferry, was ruined because schedules weren't respected (the ticket shows that passengers have to be at the port h2 prior departure, but they started to board just h1 before departure) and the disembark operations lasted over h1. The negative experience has been mainly caused by the return trip on board of the ferry "Sorrento".
Reviewed by Luigi who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Greek Journey with Grimaldi lines "
I have nothing bad to say a part from the toilets which were not so clean.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Peaceful Journey"
I have travelled in August 2013, I have booked the ticket on line, the price wasn't 'so cheap, but still good in compare with the other companies, I found the customer service excellent, the ferry was punctual and it was clean, the embarking / disembarking was really fast, the cabin was really good also, the only negative aspect was that the air- conditioning too high and noisy. I didn't eat at the restaurant, but the service at the bar was excellent at very convenient price.
Reviewed by Francesco Sangiovanni who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Grimaldi ship"
I don't understand why they weren't selling liquors and sigarette. The TV in the lounge had 2 channels only.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"A disappointing experience"
We travelled on the deck during the day without knowing that there weren't enough seats on the boat for everyone. It meant that there were people spread everywhere, toilets that were unusable after an hour… it wasn't a good experience.
Reviewed by Michel who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Restaurant services"
I travelled with Grimaldi, the staff was really helpful, the only negative aspect was the restaurant and the bar services, they weren't so well furnished. In the return journey we ate at the self service restaurant and the food wasn't good, also the bathrooms were very few in comparison with the people on board and they weren't so clean.
Reviewed by Sandro Sancineto who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"holiday in 2013"
I travelled for 17 hours, but the ferry was really comfortable and the staff was great, so we have had a great time onboard. We would make this trip again.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Catania ferry between Brindisi and Igoumenitsa (Grimaldi Lines) "
It was so far everything ok. Checking in with my voucher at the counter started on time about 15.30 clock. Shortly before 16.00 clock, we were on the ferry. Time at 19.00 clock it was the harbor. The crossing has exactly as according to the description, 8 lasted hours. leaving the ferry with the car went smoothly. The next time we would order a cab to it. Sleeping, even though we were the first on the ship and so a cheap seat had (Deck 5 or 6 pipes in the lounge), was rather modest.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"New experiences, new friends"
What a wonderful experience travelling with hundreds of tourists sleeping on the floor. I could know many new friends.
Reviewed by Piotr who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"disappointing"
small and disorganized ferry, not punctual and dirty, I found the price of the tickets too expensive for the type of ferry used.
Reviewed by Carla who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Nightmare or dream?"
The outbound trip Brindisi-Igoumenitsa has been a nightmare, while the return a dream. I think they shouldn't allow so many passengers to travel at the same time, passengers cannot find a seat or access to the toilets. I've travelled on ferries many times and I've never been asked to leave the restaurant seating area after eating: after all first come, first served. On the return it was a different story and I promise myself that I'll travel again.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"From the south of Italy to Greece with own car."
Accessible ship, friendly staff, well priced restaurant. And the advantage of the 16 hour duration of the crossing. All in all, if you can be bothered to drive all across Italy: a fine alternative!
Reviewed by Hans who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"IGOUMENITSA - BRINDISI crossing - 2 August 2013"
An excellent night crossing between Greece and Italy. A/We liked the quality of the 4 berths cabin: well aired, well lit, a practical shower, enough space to store our things, clean, quiet. B/We didn't like the long wait (1h) in Brindisi among the crowd of people waiting to exit the boat. They may have been a technical issue, but we weren't given any information. Overall a good crossing. Congratulations Grimaldi Lines!
Reviewed by Bertrand who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"From the south of Italy to Greece with own car."
Accessible ship, friendly staff, well priced restaurant. And the advantage of the 16 hour duration of the crossing. All in all, if you can be bothered to drive all across Italy: a fine alternative!
Reviewed by Hans who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Nice trip"
Excellent outbound trip, the seats ware comfortable and we travelled well, also thanks to the sea conditions. I wouldn't recommend to travel on deck as the journey last about h8. The ferry and the toilets were clean and staff helpful.
Reviewed by Giuseppe who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Bon Voyage"
Very nice Journey from Patras to Brindisi even though they weren't punctual in fact we stayed one hour more thanplanned. The ferry was clean, a little bit expensive, I didn't have the opportunity to eat at the restaurant. However, I recommend this crosing to anyone reading this!
Reviewed by Giuseppe who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Trip"
Should be compulsory, for those with a ticket, to have a comfortable seat. This to avoid to see people on deck constantly coming to the lounge searching for a free seat. The return journey has been terrible, i found my seat occupied and I had to call in a staff member, only at the point all tickets were checked and people asked to leave the reserved seats area. unfortunately, soon after the lounge was full again.
Reviewed by Filippo who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"My opinion "
The outbound journey to Palermo est ok, in spite of the delay. Howver, the return fto Tunis was disastrous. We had to wait for 9 hours in the car under the sun (because there are no Grimaldi Line area at the port) and another 3 hours on the boat . A 13 hours delay in total. I'll never use that company again. Moreover, the food on board is overpriced.
Reviewed by Alain who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Brindidi - Igumenitsa crossing - June 2013"
A very interesting price. However, the crossing was unpleasant, because of some of the clients who were dirty, unconsiderate and unpleasant towards the material and towards the other passengers. The crew somehow managed to keep the ordre on the boat
Reviewed by Julien who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"ferry "
I can not give an objective evaluation, because I am mainly in the automotive spent my time. so much: the check with the car was a disaster, but was due to the drivers! The pitch was too tight - you had to have concerns that passengers scratch the car. The unparking went in the opposite direction, forcing risky reverse driving around. The ship was overcrowded, it was found no place to sleep inside the ship.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"On time but dirty aboard"
The journey was strict on time, but the facilities on board are far from modern. The toilets are extremely dirty already at the departure time.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Crossing Igoumenitsa - Brindisi "
Grimaldi Lines offered regular service for reasonable money. We booked a cabin this time also, since the crossing itself took about 7 hours. It was worth it, the cabins are small, basic but clean and you feel the next day the same lot fitter than sleeping on the seats or even the floor. Overall a good experience, happy again! Peter with family
Reviewed by Peter who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Prisoner cell block H"
Booked a '4 berth cabin' from Patras to Brindisi, July 2013 and the picture was nothing like the actual cabin, hence the title. Not enough room to swing a cat around in, and we were only 2 people! Don't bother booking an expensive room (they are way overpriced) just get a deck chair!
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"# 4 of 10 "
Good day The ship Catania is far from equipment-standard of Minoalinen ships! The toilet was in a very bad state.
Reviewed by Neu Bernhard who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"The Unexpected"
I was expecting to have the classic tourist journey, but it was much more interesting because half of the passengers were Americans, they were going to Albania or Bulgaria. We shared the ferry deck with them.
Reviewed by who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"Grimaldi"
We had a good expirience with the booking personel i Patras. We had booked a wrong ticket and this was changed to a new one even if it was after departure. But the ship and the personnel on the ship was not ok. First - the ship was extremely dirty. You could not use the handles the stairs as they were greasy. The sun deck was filled with garbage. It needed a thorough cleaning. You need to ask the personnel to put toilet paper on the toilets - difficult when you are sitting on the toilet. we asked a personnel on the sun deck to supply more sunbeds, which we could see in a locked area. He said that this was not his job and he did not offer to ask the responsible. When we arrived we asked if we could get a sleaping cabin. No they were occopied. However, there were very few people on the ship. The bar was well runned. But the worst thing was the lack of cleaning.
Reviewed by Kirsten Henriksen who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"4 hours late"
My ship was 4 hours late, so I had a lot of my stress reaching my connecting flights. Other than that on board facilities were fine.
Reviewed by Heidi who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
"My review"
The staff spoke only a little English so it was hard to communicate with them. The toilets were a mess, and the trip lasted 3 hours more than anticipated.
Reviewed by Cristian who travelled with Grimaldi Lines on Catania
Customer Service
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