Ferry from Ustica Island to Sicily

About Ustica Island

The tiny volcanic island of Ustica measures just 9 kilometres wide and is the oldest of the Sicilian outer archipelago in Italy, approximately 60 kilometres north of Palermo. The island’s origin and its black, lava-covered exterior determined its name, which is derived from the Latin ‘ustum’, meaning 'burnt'. It has a jagged coastline which shelters a series of wonderful caves and bays, too, as well as some magnificent, sparkling grottoes. Also, the surrounding waters are a protected marine area, which makes Ustica a popular spot for scuba divers and snorkelers who flock here for the deep dives, colourful fish, coral reef and excellent visibility. Ustica Island is a popular holiday destination for Italians, so there are numerous crossings back to Sicily, operated by a popular local ferry company. You to sail to either Palermo on the Sicilian north coast or Tapani which is further west.

About Sicily

The island of Sicily, located off the south coast of Italy is the largest of the numerous Italian islands and is surrounded by the Ionian, Tyrrhenian and Mediterranean Seas. Parts of Sicily are on the same latitude as the coast of North African which results in a mild climate that makes the island an attractive year round destination, not just with domestic visitors from mainland Italy but abroad too. As with many of the Italian islands, the tourist season peaks in the summer months. On Sicily's eastern coast you’ll find Mount Etna, the greatest active volcano in Europe and undoubtedly one of the regions attractions. Perhaps in part due to its geographical location, but in the main because of its obvious attraction as a destination, Sicily features a host of regular ferry connections with neighboring islands and the Italian mainland as well as international connections with the likes of Malta and Tunisia.