ferry GNV Polaris GNV
ferry GNV Polaris
âš“ The GNV Polaris is one of the new-generation ferries in the GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) fleet, designed to deliver high standards of comfort and sustainability on the western Mediterranean routes. She links the Iberian Peninsula with North Africa, working mainly the crossings between Barcelona and the Maghreb — Tangier Med and Oran — as well as the Genoa–Palermo route in season. With room for over 1,800 passengers and several hundred vehicles, she stands out for her spacious interiors, her range of accommodation and her thoroughly modern onboard facilities.
The GNV Polaris belongs to the new series of vessels with which GNV is renewing its fleet over the coming years, with particular attention paid to energy efficiency and lower emissions. Founded in 1992 and based in Genoa, the operator runs more than 50 routes across the Mediterranean and is one of the best-known names in the European ferry market.
History and background of the ship
The GNV Polaris (IMO 9948592) is the lead vessel in the series of new-generation superferries ordered by the MSC group from the Chinese yard Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI). Built between 2023 and 2024 in Guangzhou, she was delivered on 24 October 2024 as the first of an initial batch of four. After handover she made a positioning voyage of more than 14,000 miles around the Cape of Good Hope — avoiding the Red Sea because of the geopolitical situation — with a technical call at Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on 1 December 2024, before a ceremonial welcome in Naples. On 15 January 2025 she was officially inaugurated and entered service on the Genoa–Palermo route.
In May 2026 she returned to the GSI yard in China for a planned structural refit that added 141 new cabins in an extra block aft. Once the work was complete she resumed service on 9 June 2026 and remains one of the most sustainable flagships on the Genoa–Palermo run. Her technology cuts COâ‚‚ emissions by 30% compared with earlier generations of ferry.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Passenger and vehicle ferry (Ro-Pax) |
| Length overall | 218 m |
| Beam | 27 m |
| Service speed | ~23 knots |
| Passenger capacity | ~1,868 people |
| Vehicle capacity | ~700 lane metres (cars and lorries) |
| Propulsion | High-efficiency diesel engines |
| Passenger decks | Several (seating area, cabins and services) |
| OPS system | Check availability port by port |
| Shipyard | On request |
| Flag | Italy |
| IMO number | 9782712 |
| Operator | GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) |
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Duration | Usual departure* |
|---|---|---|
| Barcelona → Tangier Med (Morocco) | ~36 h | Check timetable |
| Tangier Med → Barcelona | ~36 h | Check timetable |
| Barcelona → Oran (Algeria) | ~18 h | Check timetable |
| Oran → Barcelona | ~18 h | Check timetable |
| Genoa → Palermo (Sicily) | ~20 h | Check timetable |
| Palermo → Genoa | ~20 h | Check timetable |
* Indicative timetables, subject to season and availability. Confirm the exact departure time in our search engine.
The port of Barcelona: getting there and what to bear in mind
The GNV Polaris sails from the Ferry Terminal at the Port of Barcelona, one of the busiest in the Mediterranean. Departures for North Africa normally leave from the terminals on the Moll de Barcelona. If you are travelling in high season — above all during the Operación Paso del Estrecho, the summer crossing operation that runs from June to September — allow plenty of extra time at the port, as the volume of Maghrebi passengers creates long boarding queues.
You can reach the port by public transport on the metro (line L3, Drassanes stop) or on the Bus Turístic. If you are driving, the ferry terminals are clearly signposted from the ring roads. Aim to arrive at least 2 hours beforehand if you have a vehicle, or 60 minutes as a foot passenger.
Fares, discounts and how to book
Fares on the GNV Polaris vary a good deal depending on the route, the season and the type of accommodation you choose. In a standard seat (Pullman/Economy), one-way fares on the Barcelona–Tangier Med route start at around €80–100 in low season and can climb above €200 in summer. Cabins carry an additional supplement.
Discounts and schemes available:
- GNV Club: the operator's loyalty scheme. Collect points on every crossing and redeem them against discounts on future trips.
- Resident fare: GNV applies discounts for residents of certain regions it serves, particularly on its Italian routes. Check availability route by route.
- Family fare: discounts for children and families on selected routes and at selected times of year.
- Early booking: booking well ahead usually secures the best fares, especially in summer and on the crossings to the Maghreb.
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 |
|---|---|
| Alone or as a couple, looking for the best price | Economy / Pullman seat |
| As a family with children (overnight crossing) | 4-berth inside cabin |
| As a couple, after comfort and privacy | 2-berth inside cabin |
| Looking for sea views and maximum comfort | Outside cabin with window |
| With a pet | Pet-friendly cabin (where available on the route) |
| A long trip with a freight vehicle | Cabin for professional drivers |
ferry GNV Polaris · Accommodations
Economy seat · Standard
The cheapest option on board. Reclining seats in a shared lounge, with access to every area of the ship. Ideal if price comes first, on daytime sailings or shorter overnight crossings.
✓ Reclining seat with headrest
✓ Access to every area of the ship
✓ Café and restaurant area
✓ Shared washrooms on the passenger deck
Inside cabin
A private cabin without an outside window, available in 2- and 4-berth layouts. Perfect for overnight crossings where a proper rest matters most. Private bathroom included.
✓ Private cabin with its own lock
✓ Individual berths with bed linen
✓ Private bathroom with shower
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Available with 2 or 4 berths
Outside cabin · With window
The premium version of the inside cabin, with a window or porthole looking out to sea. Ideal for travellers who want to combine a good night's sleep with the experience of sailing the Mediterranean.
✓ Window or porthole with sea views
✓ Private cabin with its own lock
✓ Individual berths with bed linen
✓ Private bathroom with shower
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
Superior cabin
The top grade of accommodation on the GNV Polaris. A roomier cabin with a double bed or two single beds, an outside window and better finishes throughout. Designed for anyone who wants the highest level of comfort on the crossing.
✓ More interior space
✓ Double bed or two single beds
✓ Outside window with sea views
✓ Full private bathroom
✓ Higher-quality finishes and toiletries
ferry GNV Polaris · On-board services
Restaurant and café
The GNV Polaris has a self-service restaurant and a café on board, with a wide choice of hot food, sandwiches, snacks and drinks. The restaurant means you can sit down to proper meals on long sailings such as Barcelona–Tangier Med, which takes over 36 hours. The onboard shop sells travel items, snacks and souvenirs.
Outside deck
The GNV Polaris has an outside deck with promenade areas and space to enjoy the Mediterranean in the open air. It is particularly pleasant on daytime sailings and as the ship enters and leaves port.
Travelling with a dog on board
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The GNV Polaris has lifts serving the various passenger decks, together with adapted cabins for passengers with reduced mobility. Tell the operator when you book so that the assistance you need can be arranged for boarding and disembarking. The crew are trained to meet passengers' accessibility needs.
Wi-Fi and connectivity
GNV provides an onboard Wi-Fi service on its ferries. Availability, speed and charging arrangements can vary by route and time of year. Ask the operator what connectivity options are available on your particular crossing.
Travel documents for Morocco and Algeria
If you are sailing on the GNV Polaris to North Africa, remember that the Spanish ID card (DNI) is not accepted for entry into either Morocco or Algeria. You must travel with a valid passport. If you are bringing a pet, you will also need to produce a European pet passport, a valid rabies vaccination and an official health certificate issued by an authorised vet.
During the Operación Paso del Estrecho (the summer crossing operation), the Port of Barcelona handles a very high volume of Maghrebi passengers heading for Morocco. Book as far ahead as you can and get to the port in good time.
Frequently asked questions about the GNV Polaris
Which routes does the GNV Polaris ferry operate?
She works mainly the Barcelona–Tangier Med and Barcelona–Oran routes, plus Genoa–Palermo at certain times of year. Route assignments can change with GNV's scheduling.
How long does the GNV Polaris take from Barcelona to Tangier Med?
The Barcelona–Tangier Med crossing takes roughly 36 hours. It is a long sailing, and booking a cabin is strongly recommended for comfort and a decent rest.
How long does the GNV Polaris take from Barcelona to Oran?
The Barcelona–Oran crossing takes roughly 18 hours. It is usually an overnight sailing, so a cabin is well worth it if you want to arrive rested.
Does the GNV Polaris carry cars and other vehicles?
Yes. She is a Ro-Pax ferry with garage space for hundreds of vehicles, both private cars and freight. If you are travelling by car, arrive at the port at least 2 hours beforehand.
What accommodation does the GNV Polaris offer?
Four grades: the Economy seat (standard, the cheapest), the inside cabin (private, 2 or 4 berths, with bathroom), the outside cabin (with a sea-facing window) and the Superior cabin (more space and premium finishes).
Is there Wi-Fi on the GNV Polaris?
GNV provides an onboard Wi-Fi service. Availability and terms can vary by route. Check with the operator before you board.
Are pets allowed on the GNV Polaris?
Yes. You need to book a pet place when you buy your ticket. On sailings to Morocco or Algeria, remember to bring a European pet passport, a valid rabies vaccination and an official health certificate.
Is she accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. There are lifts between decks and adapted cabins on board. Tell the operator when you book so that the assistance you need can be arranged for boarding and disembarking.
What documents do I need to travel to Morocco?
The Spanish ID card (DNI) is not accepted for entry into Morocco. A valid passport is essential. Always check the latest entry requirements with the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs before you travel.
How much does it cost to travel on the GNV Polaris?
An Economy seat on the Barcelona–Tangier Med route starts at around €80–100 one way in low season. Fares rise in summer, so book well ahead. Compare real-time prices here.
How early should I get to the port?
By car: at least 2 hours beforehand. Foot passengers: 60 minutes. In summer and during the Operación Paso del Estrecho, allow extra time given the sheer number of passengers.
Does the GNV Polaris have a restaurant?
Yes. There is a self-service restaurant and a café serving hot food, sandwiches and drinks throughout the crossing. On long sailings such as Barcelona–Tangier Med, breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served.
What is the Operación Paso del Estrecho and how does it affect the GNV Polaris?
The Operación Paso del Estrecho is the Spanish support operation for the summer transit of Maghrebi citizens living in Europe who return to their home countries between June and September. Throughout this period the ports of Barcelona and Algeciras, among other terminals, handle exceptionally high passenger numbers. Book as far ahead as you possibly can and get to the port in good time.
