Ferry Sardinia to Corsica with children: how to travel between Santa Teresa and Bonifacio stress-free
Why choose the Ferry to Corsica: 50 minutes of adventure
Forget long waits and travel stress the crossing between Sardinia and Corsica can become one of the most enjoyable moments of your holiday for your little ones. Here is the perfect guide for your next ferry trip with children: a few tips and small precautions can turn a simple crossing into an unforgettable adventure.
Ichnusa Lines welcomes families on board, offering a service designed to make the connection comfortable and stress-free. Thanks to the short journey time and the beauty of the scenery, the crossing becomes a moment of fun that builds anticipation for the holiday ahead.
A short route and dolphin sightings: the magic of the sea
The standout feature of the Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio ferry is undoubtedly its speed: the strait is crossed in just 50 minutes. This short duration is ideal for travelling with children, as it minimises boredom and the risk of seasickness, which is often associated with longer and more exhausting crossings.
During the journey, the outer deck becomes a genuine natural observatory. The Strait of Bonifacio forms part of the Pelagos Sanctuary, a vast protected marine area established to safeguard marine mammals in the Mediterranean. Thanks to the extraordinary biodiversity of this stretch of sea between Sardinia and Corsica, it is often possible to witness the spectacle of dolphins playing among the waves. With a little luck, young explorers might even spot whales. All of this makes the journey a captivating educational experience: the 50-minute crossing becomes an unforgettable moment in the heart of one of the most life-rich stretches of sea in the world.
On-board services for families and children’s fares
To ensure a relaxed crossing, Ichnusa Lines provides services and discounts designed to make life easier for parents and more enjoyable for children:
- Buggy accessibility: the ferry is designed to comfortably accommodate buggies, allowing the whole family to move easily between the various decks and access all common areas without architectural barriers.
- Family services: for a worry-free journey, you will find a nursery with a changing table for hygienic nappy changes, high chairs in the catering area for a comfortable meal, and fun creative backpacks with colouring kits, available for purchase on board to keep little artists entertained during the crossing.
- Bar area: a welcoming refreshment point where you can grab a quick snack, ask for a bottle to be warmed, or enjoy a cold drink. The tables and outdoor seating are designed to let children safely watch the coastline recede.
- Dedicated play area: a safe, colourful space where the little ones can have fun and play during the crossing, making the 50-minute journey even more enjoyable.
- Discounted children’s fares: Ichnusa Lines pays particular attention to family budgets, making the journey not only comfortable but also more affordable than other transport options. Reduced fares apply for children up to 11 years old, while children up to four years old travel free of charge.
Documents for children on the Sardinia-Corsica ferry: what you need to know
Before boarding the Corsica-Sardinia ferry, it is essential to check that you have the correct documents. Even though it is a short route, you are crossing an international border between Italy and France.
- Children’s ID cards for the ferry: all minors, including newborns, must carry their own valid individual identity document. Being listed on a parent’s document is no longer sufficient. From 3 August 2026, paper identity cards will no longer be valid, either abroad or on Italian territory, regardless of the expiry date shown on the document. Only electronic identity cards, in original and valid form, will be accepted for both adult and child passengers.
- Validity check: make sure the doument is undamaged and not expired. It is advisable to check documentation a few days before departure to avoid any unpleasant surprises during check-in at the port.
- Minor passengers: children under 16 must always be accompanied by an adult; those aged 16 to 18 may travel alone with a parental consent form and the parent’s identity document. On international routes, if the accompanying adult is not a parent, a written authorisation and the guardian’s documents are required.
Practical tips for a stress-free crossing
To make the most of the journey and prevent minor inconveniences, a few simple organisational steps will make the on-board experience pleasant for adults and children alike:
- Managing seasickness: if your children suffer from seasickness, the short duration of the crossing is already a great help. We still recommend staying on the open deck and fixing your gaze on the horizon: fresh air and the view are the best natural remedies.
- Arrive early and allow time for boarding: arriving at the port of Santa Teresa or Bonifacio without rushing gives children time to get used to the ship at a comfortable pace. Please note that, according to regulations, you must present yourself for boarding at least 30 minutes before departure if travelling on foot, and at least 60 minutes before if you have a vehicle. Respecting these times will ensure a relaxed experience managing luggage and the family.
- Parking availability: arrive at least 30 minutes early on foot or 60 minutes early with a vehicle. In summer, car parks near the docks fill up quickly and direct access may be restricted: allow time for a short walk to the boarding area so you can manage luggage and buggies calmly.
- Travel kit: even though the crossing is quick, bring a small backpack with water, a sun hat for the deck, and a light jumper to protect children from the sea breeze.
- Power sockets on board: the ferry has several power sockets available in the communal areas, for connecting portable bottle warmers or other devices during the 50-minute crossing.
- Timetables: one of the great advantages of Ichnusa Lines is the variety of departure times on the Santa Teresa to Bonifacio route. The availability of multiple daily sailings provides essential flexibility to fit around children’s routines, such as afternoon naps or mealtimes, allowing you to travel at the most convenient moment for your family.
- Date change: we know that with young travellers, the unexpected is always just around the corner. That is why we offer maximum flexibility for date changes: if an unforeseen event disrupts your plans, you can modify your booking simply and easily in accordance with the transport conditions.
Planning a trip between the two islands is simple and enjoyable with Ichnusa Lines. With a few precautions and the beauty of the Strait of Bonifacio as your backdrop, the ferry becomes the best way to start your family holiday, full of smiles and breathtaking sightings.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions for Families Travelling with Children
Is there a changing table on board?
Yes, the ship’s toilets are equipped for the needs of young children, providing a hygienic and comfortable space for nappy changes.
What happens if the sea is very rough?
Safety is our priority. In the event of adverse weather and sea conditions that prevent safe navigation, the sailing may be delayed or cancelled. In such cases, passengers are informed promptly so that they can rebook their journey.
Are there dedicated play areas?
A dedicated play area is available, structured to meet children’s need for movement in a safe and supervised environment.
Forget the complications and enjoy only the best of the voyage: the 50 minutes with Ichnusa Lines fly by, leaving room only for your family’s smiles. We are here to make every journey simple and safe, so you can start your Corsica or Sardinia holiday with complete peace of mind.
