Cruise ferry Excellent GNV
Cruise ferry Excellent
âš“ The GNV Excellent is one of the great cruise ferries of the western Mediterranean, operated by GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci). With room for 2,230 passengers and 760 vehicles — or 150 lorries — she is one of the highest-capacity ships in the GNV fleet and a familiar sight on the routes between Spain, Italy and Morocco. Built in 1998 and sailing under the Italian flag, the Excellent normally covers the Barcelona–Genoa (≈20 h), Barcelona–Tangier, Genoa–Palermo and Genoa–Tunis routes, making her a long-standing Mediterranean bridge for thousands of travellers and hauliers every year.
She belongs to the same generation as her sister ship, the Excelsior, launched a year later (1999), with which she shares length, capacity and interior layout. Together they are the oldest and largest-capacity ships in the GNV fleet, with more than two decades of unbroken service on the Mediterranean's most demanding routes behind them.
GNV was founded in 1992 by Aldo Grimaldi as a subsidiary of the Grimaldi Group, and in 2010 it became part of the MSC Group. Today it is one of the leading operators in the Mediterranean basin, with routes linking Italy, Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, Morocco, Tunisia, Albania and France. The Excellent is one of its most recognisable ships and one of those with the longest operating record.
History and background of the ship
The Excellent (IMO 9143441) is the twin sister of the Excelsior, built between 1996 and 1998 at the Nuovi Cantieri Apuania yard in Marina di Carrara (hull number 1183) and delivered in May 1998. She embodies the cruise ferry concept GNV developed in the 1990s: a high-tonnage ferry hold combined with cruise-standard services and facilities. From delivery she was put on Italy's star domestic routes — Genoa and Livorno–Palermo and Olbia — soaking up the enormous summer tourist peaks in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
From 2012 she extended her range to the Balearic Islands (Barcelona–Palma–Ibiza) and the trans-Mediterranean routes to North Africa (Tangier Med and Tunis). Since 2021, as part of the international network of the MSC group (GNV's parent company), she has been a fixture on the Genoa–Barcelona–Tangier Med axis, with seasonal cover on the Sète–Tangier line. Like her sister ships, she is a mainstay of the Operación Paso del Estrecho, Spain's annual summer crossing operation.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Ro-Pax cruise ferry (Ro-Ro / passenger) |
| Length overall | 202 m |
| Beam | 28 m |
| Top speed | 21 knots |
| Passenger capacity | 2,230 people |
| Vehicle capacity | 760 cars or 150 lorries/semi-trailers |
| Cabins | 429 cabins (including 38 Suites) · 1,415 berths |
| Freight decks | 4 hold decks · 3 stern ramps |
| Year built | 1998 |
| Flag | Italy |
| IMO number | 9143441 |
| MMSI | 247279000 |
| Sister ship | GNV Excelsior (1999) |
| Swimming pool on board | Yes (Sun Deck) |
| Conference centre | Yes (GNV MICE & Incentive programme) |
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Duration | Usual frequency* |
|---|---|---|
| Barcelona → Genoa | ~20 h | ~2-3 sailings/week |
| Genoa → Barcelona | ~20 h | ~2-3 sailings/week |
| Barcelona → Tangier | ~29-30 h | Several a week |
| Genoa → Palermo | ~20 h | Up to daily (high season) |
| Genoa → Tunis | ~24 h | Several a week |
* Indicative timetables and frequencies, subject to season and availability. The Excellent may occasionally be replaced by another GNV ship. Confirm the exact time in our search engine.
The port of Barcelona: how to get there and what to bear in mind
The GNV Excellent uses the Moll de Sant Bertran in the Port of Barcelona, GNV's ferry terminal in the Moll Adossat area, about 3 km from Las Ramblas and roughly 15 km from El Prat airport. By car it is reached directly from the Ronda Litoral (B-10).
If you are travelling on the Barcelona–Genoa or Barcelona–Palermo route, you should reach the port at least 2 hours beforehand if you are bringing a vehicle, and 1 hour if you are travelling as a foot passenger. On routes to Morocco or Tunisia, the recommended minimum rises to 4 hours before departure, with or without a vehicle, because of customs checks.
Fares, discounts and how to book
A Pullman seat ticket (standard reclining seat) on the Barcelona–Genoa route starts at roughly €168 in mid season, though the figure can move a good deal in summer and over public holidays. Inside cabins start at around €80 per person (in a shared cabin). On the routes to Morocco, prices from Barcelona to Nador start at about €100 for a seat.
Discounts available with GNV:
- Early booking: booking ahead can save you up to 30-40% off the base fare. GNV runs advance-sale campaigns regularly.
- Families and groups: reduced fares for large families and groups of travellers. Check availability when you book.
- Children: children under 4 travel free on all routes to Italy, Spain and Albania. On routes to Morocco and Tunisia, children under 2 travel free.
- Seniors and students: discounts apply on some routes. Confirm during the booking process.
You can compare prices and real-time availability directly on I Love Ferry.
Which accommodation should you choose for your trip?
| If you are travelling... | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| Looking for the lowest price | Pullman seat (reclining seat) |
| Alone or as a couple on an overnight crossing | Inside cabin (2 or 4 people) |
| Wanting sea views and more comfort | Outside cabin (window or porthole) |
| After maximum luxury and privacy | Suite (TV, minibar, large porthole) |
| With a pet | Pet-Friendly cabin or a place in the kennels |
| With reduced mobility | Adapted accessible cabin (4 available) |
| On business or for a meeting | Suite + conference centre |
| As a family with children | Family cabin (up to 4 people) |
Cruise ferry Excellent · Accommodations
Pullman seat · Standard
The cheapest option on board. Four lounges with fully reclining leather Pullman seats and large-screen TVs, on deck 9. Available to every passenger who does not book a cabin. Perfect for daytime crossings or travellers on a tight budget.
✓ Reclining leather seat with footrest
✓ Large-screen TV in the shared lounge
✓ Access to every area of the ship
✓ Wi-Fi available on board
Inside cabin · Standard
A cabin without a window, ideal for overnight crossings where resting is what matters. Room for up to 4 people for sole use. A quiet, private space with all the basic comforts. The best value for money on long journeys.
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer
✓ Beds with bed linen included
✓ Up to 4 people for sole use
Outside cabin · Sea views
A cabin with a porthole or window looking out over the Mediterranean. The same comforts as the inside cabin, but with natural light and the sea in view from your bed. Highly recommended for daytime crossings or for anyone who enjoys the seascape.
✓ Porthole or window with sea views
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer
✓ Beds with bed linen included
Suite · Premium
The Excellent's 38 suites are the most exclusive accommodation on board. With a large panoramic porthole, they offer extra space and a full set of higher-grade fittings. Some suites have a private balcony. Available as a double (one double bed) or a family suite (one double bed plus a sofa bed).
✓ Large panoramic porthole (some with a private balcony)
✓ TV with satellite reception
✓ Minibar, radio and telephone
✓ Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer
✓ Available as a double or family suite (up to 3 people)
Pet-Friendly cabin · Pets
GNV lets you travel with your pet in designated Pet-Friendly cabins or by booking a place in the onboard kennels. You must include the pet in your online booking. Small pets must travel in a carrier; larger ones need a muzzle and lead while boarding.
✓ Cabin adapted for travelling with a pet
✓ Alternative: a place in the onboard kennels (~€20-30)
✓ The pet must be declared when booking
✓ Health record and paperwork required
Cruise ferry Excellent · On-board services
À la carte restaurant and places to eat
The GNV Excellent stands out for its wide choice of food, particularly generous for a long-distance crossing. There are four separate spaces: an à la carte restaurant serving Mediterranean, regional and international dishes (with three-course service), a self-service restaurant/buffet in an informal setting, a snack bar open all day (breakfast, lunch, dinner and light bites) and a Neapolitan pizzeria in high season turning out freshly baked pizzas. On the routes to Morocco and Tunisia a halal menu is also served.
Duty-free shop and entertainment
The Excellent has a well-stocked Ferry Shopping Centre with boutiques at reduced prices: tobacco, alcohol (premium wines and spirits), perfumes, cosmetics, designer jewellery, watches, clothing, accessories, sunglasses, gifts, souvenirs, toys, puzzles, books and magazines. There is also an amusement arcade with video games and slot machines, plus a library and a chapel on board.
Swimming pool and outside deck
One of the GNV Excellent's best features is her swimming pool on the Sun Deck, open during crossings in the warmer months. The generous outside deck areas let you enjoy the Mediterranean in the open air and are especially appreciated on overnight crossings to Morocco or Genoa.
Children's area
Travelling with a dog on board
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The GNV Excellent has 4 cabins specifically adapted for passengers with reduced mobility or a disability. The ship's Information Desk, open 24 hours a day, deals with any assistance you may need on board. We recommend flagging any special requirements when you book so that an adapted cabin can be guaranteed.
Conference Centre — GNV MICE & Incentive
The Excellent is a popular choice for business and corporate events thanks to its Conference Centre. The GNV MICE & Incentive programme offers 5 different formats for groups and companies: full charter of the ship, partial charter (dedicated areas), a Mediterranean mini-cruise, a floating hotel (the ship as accommodation in port) and corporate events such as private drinks receptions, lunches or dinners. An unusual proposition for meetings or incentive trips in the Mediterranean.
GNV Excellent vs GNV Excelsior: differences between the sister ships
The Excellent and the Excelsior are the two largest and longest-serving sister ships in the GNV fleet. Here is how their main specifications compare:
| Feature | GNV Excellent | GNV Excelsior |
|---|---|---|
| Year built | 1998 | 1999 |
| Length overall | 202 m | 202 m |
| Beam | 28 m | 28 m |
| Passenger capacity | 2,230 | 2,253 |
| Vehicle capacity | 760 cars | 760 cars |
| Total cabins | 429 | 429 |
| Suites | 38 | 38 |
| Speed | 21 knots | 21 knots |
| IMO | 9143441 | 9157388 |
Frequently asked questions about the GNV Excellent
Which routes does the GNV Excellent ferry operate?
She normally works the Barcelona–Genoa, Barcelona–Tangier, Genoa–Palermo and Genoa–Tunis routes. Route assignments can change with the season and with GNV's operational needs.
How long does the GNV Excellent take from Barcelona to Genoa?
The Barcelona–Genoa crossing takes about 20 hours. GNV runs this route with up to 2-3 sailings a week all year round.
Does the GNV Excellent carry cars?
Yes. She has a hold for up to 760 vehicles (or 150 lorries/semi-trailers) on 4 freight decks reached by 3 stern ramps. If you are travelling by car on routes to Italy or Spain, arrive at least 2 hours beforehand.
What accommodation does the GNV Excellent offer?
Four types: the Pullman seat (reclining, in a shared lounge), the inside cabin (up to 4 people, no window), the outside cabin (with a porthole or window on to the sea) and the Suite (38 available, with satellite TV, a minibar and, in some cases, a private balcony). There are also Pet-Friendly cabins and 4 cabins adapted for passengers with reduced mobility.
Is there Wi-Fi on the GNV Excellent?
Yes. The Excellent has Wi-Fi on board, though extra charges may apply depending on the plan you take out. There is also a cash machine (ATM) next to the Information Desk.
Are pets allowed on the GNV Excellent?
Yes. GNV accepts pets in Pet-Friendly cabins or in the ship's kennels (indicative price: €20-30). You must declare the pet when booking and present health documentation. Small pets travel in a carrier; larger ones need a muzzle and lead.
Is she accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. She has 4 cabins adapted for passengers with reduced mobility. The Information Desk is open 24 hours a day for assistance. We recommend flagging any special requirements when you book.
What food is there on board?
The Excellent offers an à la carte restaurant (Mediterranean, regional and international cooking), a self-service buffet, a snack bar open all day and a Neapolitan pizzeria in high season. Halal menus are served on routes to Morocco and Tunisia. Gluten-free and lactose-free options are available on request.
How much does it cost to travel on the GNV Excellent?
A Pullman seat on the Barcelona–Genoa route starts at roughly €168. Inside cabins start at ~€80 per person. GNV offers discounts of up to 30-40% for advance bookings. Compare real-time prices here.
How early should I reach the port?
Routes to Italy/Spain: 2 hours with a vehicle, 1 hour without. Routes to Morocco, Tunisia or Albania: 4 hours beforehand, with or without a vehicle, because of customs and security checks.
Do children travel free on the GNV Excellent?
Yes. Children under 4 travel free on routes to Italy, Spain and Albania. On routes to Morocco and Tunisia, children under 2 travel free. Cots, high chairs and changing tables are provided free of charge on request.
Is there a swimming pool on the GNV Excellent?
Yes. The Excellent has a swimming pool on the Sun Deck, open in the warmer months, along with large open-air deck areas from which to enjoy the Mediterranean views.
What documents do I need to travel?
For routes between Spain and Italy a national ID card or passport is enough. For routes to Morocco a passport is essential (an ID card alone is not accepted). If you are travelling with a vehicle that is not yours, bring a notarised authorisation. For routes to Tunisia, check the requirements for your nationality.
What is the difference between the GNV Excellent and the GNV Excelsior?
They are all but identical sister ships. The Excellent (1998) and the Excelsior (1999) share their length (202 m), speed (21 knots), number of cabins (429, including 38 Suites) and vehicle capacity (760). The only noticeable difference is that the Excelsior carries 2,253 passengers against the Excellent's 2,230.
