How to Get to Ischia: Ferries, Hydrofoils & Ports
Your holiday in Ischia begins with the journey.
You can reach Ischia by hydrofoil or ferry from Naples and Pozzuoli, or arrive from the Amalfi Coast, Capri or Procida.
If you are flying, Naples Capodichino is the main arrival point. And if you are looking for something more special, there are also private boat and helicopter transfers.
The best option depends mainly on where you are coming from, where you are staying and how you want to experience the journey.
🚢 From Naples to Ischia
This is the most common connection.
From Naples, you can mainly leave from:
Molo Beverello → hydrofoils
Porta di Massa → ferries
Mergellina → fast connections, when available
The hydrofoil is faster, while the ferry takes longer but allows you to travel with your car.
My advice: arrive at the port at least half an hour before departure. I personally prefer to arrive without rushing, have a coffee, look around and start the journey relaxed. If you can buy your ticket in advance, even better.
❤️ Mergellina
Mergellina is a port I remember with particular affection. When I was a child, I absolutely loved arriving here to take the hydrofoil to Ischia.
It was a different atmosphere.
🚗 From Pozzuoli to Ischia
If you are arriving by car, Pozzuoli is often the most convenient option.
Ferries from Pozzuoli connect with Ischia and Casamicciola, and you can also take your car on board when permitted.
For anyone arriving from the mainland by car, avoiding the centre of Naples can already make a big difference.
Spiaggia Libera Miramare and Ischia Ponte Castle
✈️ If you are arriving by plane
From Naples Capodichino Airport, you can reach the port by Alibus, which also connects the airport with Naples Central Station and Piazza Garibaldi.
From there, you can continue to Beverello, Porta di Massa or Mergellina by taxi or public transport.
One tip: if you take a taxi, ask about the expected fare before you leave.
🏝️ From Salerno, Amalfi and Positano
During the summer season, direct connections to Ischia are available.
This can be particularly convenient if you are already travelling along the Amalfi Coast.
If you are in Amalfi or Positano, you don't necessarily have to go back to Naples to reach Ischia.
Schedules change during the season, so always check them before travelling.
🏝️ From Procida to Ischia
Procida and Ischia are very close to each other, and during the season there are direct connections in both directions.
It is also a great combination for anyone who wants to visit two very different islands.
🏝️ From Capri to Ischia
Capri and Ischia are also directly connected during the season.
So if you are already in Capri, you can continue to Ischia without going back to the mainland.
❓ What about Formia?
In the past, there were direct connections between Formia and Ischia, particularly during the summer season.
Routes can change from one year to another and are not always operated.
If you are travelling from Formia, check Google and the ferry companies' websites before planning your journey.
🚢 Hydrofoil or ferry?
The choice is quite simple.
Hydrofoil
→ faster
→ ideal if you are travelling without a car
Ferry
→ slower
→ necessary if you need to bring your car
→ can be more comfortable when the sea is rough
Sea conditions can change the situation. Always check for possible changes or cancellations before leaving.
🚘 Should I bring my car?
The answer is: it depends.
If there are two of you and you know how to ride a scooter, I would seriously consider coming without a car.
For around €30 a day, depending on the season and the rental company, a scooter can give you much more freedom to explore the island.
And, above all, you won't have to worry as much about parking.
Be aware, however, that there are restrictions on cars belonging to non-residents of Campania. Regulations can change, so always check the current rules before travelling.
🏨 Which port should you choose?
This is one of the most important things to consider, and it is often overlooked.
If you are staying in Ischia Porto:
→ choose Ischia Porto.
If you are staying in Casamicciola:
→ Casamicciola, or Ischia Porto if the timetable works better.
If you are staying in Lacco Ameno:
→ Casamicciola.
If you are staying in Forio:
→ Forio.
If you are staying in Serrara Fontana:
→ Forio.
If you are staying in Barano:
→ Ischia Porto.
Why?
Because arriving at the port closest to your hotel can save you time, taxi fares and effort.
Arriving in Ischia Porto when your hotel is in Forio can mean an expensive taxi ride or a long bus journey, perhaps in the heat and with your luggage.
Before buying your ticket, check where you are staying.
🚁 Arriving by helicopter
Yes, this is possible too.
From Naples Capodichino, private helicopter services to Ischia are available. Some operators, such as Hoverfly, indicate a flight time of around 20 minutes and prices starting at approximately €2,400. Always check directly with the operator, as availability and prices can change.
It is certainly not the cheapest option, but if you have little time or want to start your holiday in a special way, it can make sense.
🛥️ What about a private charter?
There are also private boat transfers from Naples and from various locations along the coast.
If you need a private charter to reach Ischia, write to us.
We don't sell charters and we are not an agency: we can, however, put you in touch with the contacts we consider the best in terms of quality and price, depending on your needs.
Sometimes, on an island, simply knowing who to call is already half the solution.
🕐 Before you leave
Ferry and hydrofoil schedules change depending on the season and can also be affected by sea conditions.
For this reason, it is always best to check the latest schedules directly with the operators.
Alilauro
Caremar
Medmar
Gestour
🌊 And now, let's go
Getting to Ischia is not just about choosing a ferry or a hydrofoil.
It is about choosing where to leave from, which port to arrive at and how to begin your holiday.
My advice is simple: plan your journey, but don't rush.
Arrive at the port a little early, have a coffee, look at the sea.
Your Ischia holiday has already begun.
by Gabbiyaah