ferry GNV Cristal GNV
ferry GNV Cristal
âš“ The GNV Cristal is a passenger and freight ferry operated by GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) that works some of the best-known routes in the western Mediterranean, including the links between Genoa and Barcelona and between Barcelona and several North African cities. At 202 metres long and with room for more than 1,900 passengers, she is one of the largest ships in the GNV fleet, notable for her wide choice of accommodation — from reclining seats to cabins with a private bathroom — and for the range of onboard services she offers on long-distance crossings.
The GNV Cristal was built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and entered service in 2001. She has been upgraded and overhauled several times over the years, modernising her interior. She sails under the Italian flag and is normally based at Genoa, the main hub of the Grandi Navi Veloci fleet. Her IMO number is 9220332.
Grandi Navi Veloci, part of the MSC group, is one of the leading ferry operators in the western Mediterranean, with more than 30 years of history behind it. The GNV Cristal embodies the company's commitment to comfortable overnight crossings on which passengers can sleep and arrive rested.
History and background of the ship
The GNV Cristal (IMO 8712518) belongs to the celebrated Peter Pan class, built between 1988 and 1989 at the Schichau Seebeckwerft yard in Bremerhaven (yard number 1067) and delivered in September 1989 as the Olau Hollandia for Olau Line, working the premium Sheerness–Vlissingen route across the North Sea. In 1994 she was bought by P&O Ferries and renamed Pride of Le Havre, becoming a fixture of the English Channel on the Portsmouth–Le Havre run for more than a decade. In 2005 she passed to the Italian operator SNAV as the SNAV Sardegna, moving to the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Civitavecchia–Olbia–Palermo routes.
In 2017 she passed permanently to GNV as the GNV Cristal. Her excellent balance of cabins and garage space makes her the operator's all-rounder: she normally works long-distance routes to North Africa (Barcelona–Nador, Sète–Tangier and links to Tunisia and Algeria) and in recent months (March and August 2026) she has stepped in at short notice in the Balearics, covering the Barcelona–Mahón and Valencia–Palma de Mallorca services.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Passenger and roll-on/roll-off freight ferry (Ro-Pax) |
| Length overall | 202 m |
| Beam | 25 m |
| Draught | 6.5 m |
| Cruising speed | ~22 knots |
| Passenger capacity | 1,932 people |
| Vehicle capacity | ~700 lane metres of freight (cars and lorries) |
| Propulsion | Conventional diesel engines |
| Passenger decks | Several (passengers on the upper decks, freight in the hold) |
| Shipyard | Fincantieri (Italy) |
| Year built | 2001 |
| Flag | Italy |
| IMO number | 9220332 |
| Parent group | MSC (through GNV) |
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Approx. duration | Usual departure* |
|---|---|---|
| Genoa → Barcelona | ~18 h | ~19:00 |
| Barcelona → Genoa | ~18 h | ~11:00 |
| Barcelona → Tanger Med | ~36 h | Varies by season |
| Tanger Med → Barcelona | ~36 h | Varies by season |
* Indicative timetables, subject to season and availability. Confirm the exact departure time in our search engine.
The port of Genoa: how to get there and what to bear in mind
Genoa's ferry terminal (Terminal Traghetti) sits within the city's historic port, a few minutes from the old town. It is easy to reach by car on the A7/A10 motorway, or by public transport from Genova Brignole station. If you are flying in, Cristoforo Colombo airport is only 6 km from the port.
Passengers boarding in Barcelona use the GNV terminal on the Moll de Barcelona, inside the city's port, within walking distance of Las Ramblas and connected to the metro network (line 3, Drassanes station). We recommend arriving at least 2 hours beforehand if you are travelling with a vehicle and 1 hour as a foot passenger, since boarding a long-haul Ro-Pax ship takes longer than on short routes.
Fares, discounts and how to book
Prices on the GNV Cristal vary with the accommodation you choose, the season and how far ahead you book. As a rough guide, a reclining seat on the Genoa–Barcelona route can be found from €40–60 each way in low season, while a double inside cabin starts at around €100–150 (for the whole cabin). In high season — summer, Easter and the Operación Paso del Estrecho crossing period — prices rise considerably.
Discounts and special fares available:
- Children: reduced fares for under-4s and under-12s under GNV's policy. Under-4s usually travel free in a seat.
- Students and young travellers: GNV occasionally offers youth fares for under-26s. Check availability when you book.
- Families: discounts on family cabins available in certain seasons.
- Resident fare: the Balearic resident discount does not apply on this route, as it is not a Public Service Obligation service.
You can compare prices and real-time availability for the GNV Cristal directly on I Love Ferry.
Which accommodation should you choose for your trip?
| If you are travelling... | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| Alone or as a couple, looking for the best price | Reclining seat |
| As a couple wanting a good night's sleep | Double inside cabin |
| As a family with children | Family cabin (4 berths) |
| Looking for more comfort and natural light | Outside cabin with window |
| Maximum comfort on a long crossing | Luxury cabin / Suite |
| With a pet | Pet-friendly cabin (subject to availability) |
ferry GNV Cristal · Accommodations
Reclining seat · Standard
The cheapest option on the GNV Cristal. Reclining seats in a shared area with access to every part of the ship. Ideal for travellers who put price first on an overnight crossing where you will spend most of the time asleep.
✓ Reclining seat with headrest
✓ Access to the ship's public areas
✓ Access to the café and restaurant
✓ The most affordable option available
Inside cabin
A cabin without a window, with bunks or a double bed depending on the layout. The best option for anyone who wants to sleep well during the crossing without paying the premium for an outside cabin. Includes a private bathroom with shower.
✓ Bunks or a double bed, subject to availability
✓ Private bathroom with shower and toilet
✓ Individually controlled climate control
✓ Access to every area of the ship
Outside cabin · With window
The same as the inside cabin but with a window or porthole facing outwards. You can watch the sun rise over the Mediterranean from the comfort of your own cabin. Recommended for daytime sailings, or whenever that bit of natural light matters to you.
✓ Window or porthole facing outwards
✓ Bunks or a double bed, subject to availability
✓ Private bathroom with shower and toilet
✓ Individually controlled climate control
Family cabin · 4 berths
A cabin with 4 berths, ideal for families or groups of up to 4 people. It lets you travel together in your own space with a bathroom, at a very competitive price per person compared with booking several separate cabins.
✓ 4 berths in a single cabin
✓ Private bathroom with shower and toilet
✓ Individually controlled climate control
✓ Ideal for families with children
Suite · Luxury cabin
The most exclusive accommodation on the GNV Cristal. More space, better finishes, a double bed and views outside. The finest way to spend a long Mediterranean crossing.
✓ Double bed
✓ More space and better finishes
✓ Full private bathroom
✓ Views outside
ferry GNV Cristal · On-board services
Restaurant and café on board
The GNV Cristal has a buffet restaurant, a café and a bar to look after passengers on her long Mediterranean crossings. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served, with Italian and international dishes on the menu. There are also vending machines for snacks and drinks around the clock.
Open deck
The GNV Cristal has an open deck from which passengers can enjoy the views across the Mediterranean during the crossing. It is the ideal spot to watch the ship leave or arrive in port, catch the sunset over the water, or simply take the air out at sea.
Travelling with your pet on board the GNV Cristal
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The GNV Cristal has adapted facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including adapted access between decks and accessible cabins with room for a wheelchair and an adapted bathroom. We recommend contacting GNV in advance to confirm that adapted accommodation is available and to request assistance boarding and disembarking.
Lounges and entertainment
Given how long GNV Cristal crossings are — the run to Genoa alone takes 18 hours — the ship has a number of lounges and entertainment areas to make the time on board pass more pleasantly:
- Lounges with comfortable seating and televisions in the public areas.
- Wi-Fi on board to stay connected during the crossing (coverage can vary out at sea).
- Play area for younger passengers.
- Onboard shop selling travel goods, souvenirs and everyday essentials.
The Genoa–Barcelona route: a Mediterranean classic
The sea link between Genoa and Barcelona is one of the classic western Mediterranean routes and a favourite among travellers who want a comfortable way to get between Italy and Spain, especially with a vehicle. On the GNV Cristal the crossing becomes an experience in itself: you board in the late afternoon or evening in Genoa or Barcelona and wake up at your destination, having used the hours at sea to rest.
It is also widely used during the Operación Paso del Estrecho, when thousands of families of Moroccan origin living in Europe head home for the holidays, and the ship may continue on to Tanger Med.
Frequently asked questions about the GNV Cristal
Which routes does the GNV Cristal operate?
She works mainly the Genoa–Barcelona route (and back), taking about 18 hours. In season she also operates Barcelona–Tanger Med (Morocco), which takes roughly 36 hours.
How long does the GNV Cristal take from Genoa to Barcelona?
The Genoa–Barcelona crossing takes about 18 hours. It is mostly an overnight sailing, so you can use the journey to rest in a cabin or a seat.
Does the GNV Cristal carry cars?
Yes. The GNV Cristal is a Ro-Pax ferry with a hold for vehicles (cars, vans and lorries). She is one of the best ways to travel between Spain and Italy with your own car. We recommend arriving at the port at least 2 hours beforehand if you are travelling by car.
What accommodation does the GNV Cristal offer?
Five types: reclining seat (standard, the cheapest), inside cabin (no window, with its own bathroom), outside cabin (with a window or porthole), family cabin (4 berths) and suite or luxury cabin (double bed, more space and comfort).
Is there Wi-Fi on board the GNV Cristal?
Yes, the GNV Cristal has Wi-Fi on board. Coverage can vary during the crossing depending on where the ship is out at sea. Check the exact terms when you board or on the GNV website.
Are pets allowed on the GNV Cristal?
Yes. GNV accepts pets on board the GNV Cristal in pet-friendly cabins. You must book a pet place when you buy your ticket and produce a European pet passport with up-to-date vaccinations (essential for international journeys to Morocco).
Is the GNV Cristal accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. The GNV Cristal has adapted access and accessible cabins for passengers with reduced mobility. We recommend contacting GNV in advance to confirm availability and to request special assistance when boarding.
Is there a restaurant on board the GNV Cristal?
Yes. There is a buffet restaurant, a café and a bar. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served during the crossing, with Italian and international cooking. Vending machines are also available around the clock.
How much does it cost to travel on the GNV Cristal?
A reclining seat starts at €40–60 each way in low season. A double inside cabin can start at €100–150 (for the whole cabin). Prices rise in July and August, so book ahead. Compare real-time prices here.
How early should I get to the port?
With a vehicle: at least 2 hours beforehand. As a foot passenger: 1 hour is enough. In high season (July and August, Easter, the Operación Paso del Estrecho period) it is worth allowing extra time.
Where is the GNV terminal in Barcelona?
The GNV terminal in Barcelona is on the Moll de Barcelona, inside the city's port. It is within walking distance of Las Ramblas and connected to the metro (line 3, Drassanes station). There are car parks close to the port.
What documents do I need to travel from Barcelona to Tanger Med?
To enter Morocco you need a valid passport (a Spanish ID card (DNI) will not do). If you are taking a vehicle you will also need its registration document and insurance. If you are travelling with a pet, a European pet passport with an up-to-date rabies vaccination is essential.
Seat or cabin on the GNV Cristal — which is better?
On the 18-hour run between Genoa and Barcelona, if you are sailing overnight, we would book at least an inside cabin so that you can sleep properly. A seat is a perfectly reasonable choice if price comes first, but on a long crossing a cabin makes a real difference. If you are travelling as a family, the 4-berth family cabin is usually the cheapest option per person with a private bathroom included.
