ferry Splendid GNV
ferry Splendid
âš“ The Splendid is one of the most emblematic and longest-serving ships in the GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) fleet, with room for 2,200 passengers and 1,010 vehicles. Introduced in June 1994, the Splendid was, alongside the Majestic, one of the first cruiseferries run by an Italian company, and for more than three decades she has set the comfort standard for medium- and long-distance crossings in the Mediterranean. She currently works the Civitavecchia–Palermo–Tunis route, linking central Italy with Sicily and with the Tunisian capital.
At 215 metres long and with 485 cabins — 24 of them suites — the Splendid offers something close to a cruise experience on a scheduled liner service. GNV has included the Splendid in its fleet refit programme, backed by an investment of €25 million, covering improvements to safety, energy efficiency and connectivity via Starlink, along with new wellness spaces such as a spa and relaxation areas.
The ship has belonged to the MSC Group since 2010 and sails under the Italian flag. One episode stands out in her history: in March 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she was converted into a hospital ship in just 10 days thanks to the Italian Naval Register (RINA) and a host of companies that volunteered their help, and was handed over to the Ligurian authorities for a symbolic €1 to treat coronavirus patients.
History and background of the ship
The Splendid (IMO 9015747) is the direct sister ship of the Majestic, built at the Nuovi Cantieri Apuania yard in Marina di Carrara (hull number 1153) and delivered in May 1994. She has spent her entire working life with GNV. In 1996 she was jumboised at the Palermo shipyards, where a 26-metre midsection was inserted, taking her length to 214.5 m and greatly increasing her cabin and garage capacity. In 2020 she was chartered temporarily by the Ligurian authorities as a floating hospital ship for the COVID-19 response in the Port of Genoa.
In recent years she has worked regularly in the North African market, linking Civitavecchia and Palermo with Tunis (La Goulette), as well as covering the Italian motorways of the sea to Sicily and Sardinia.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Ro-Pax cruiseferry |
| Length overall | 215 m |
| Passenger capacity | 2,200 people |
| Vehicle capacity | 1,010 cars / 150 articulated lorries |
| Cabins | 485 (including 24 suites) · 1,639 berths in total |
| Accessible cabins | 2 (for passengers with reduced mobility) |
| Pet-friendly cabins | Yes (available) |
| Year built | 1994 (launched: 18 December 1993; in service: June 1994) |
| IMO number | 9015747 |
| MMSI | 247136000 |
| Call sign | IBAS |
| Flag | Italy |
| Registry type | Ro-Ro / Passenger Ship |
| Operating company | GNV – Grandi Navi Veloci (MSC Group) |
| Usual route | Civitavecchia – Palermo – Tunis |
| Connectivity | Onboard Wi-Fi (Starlink, part of the refit) |
| Helipad | Yes (emergency use) |
| Refit programme | €25 million (Excelsior, Fantastic, Rhapsody and Splendid) |
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Approx. duration | Frequency* |
|---|---|---|
| Civitavecchia → Palermo | ~14 h | 1 sailing a week (Fridays ~19:00 in winter) |
| Palermo → Civitavecchia | ~14 h | Regular all year round |
| Palermo → Tunis | ~12 h | Regular all year round |
| Civitavecchia → Palermo → Tunis | ~25-27 h | Regular; direct in summer (Jul–Sep) |
| Tunis → Civitavecchia | ~27-28 h | All year round (calling at Palermo) |
* Timetables and frequencies are indicative and subject to season and availability. In summer GNV adds sailings and may run the Civitavecchia–Tunis leg direct, with no intermediate call. Confirm the exact departure time in our search engine.
The port of Civitavecchia: Rome's gateway to the sea
The port of Civitavecchia is one of the most important in the central Mediterranean and the main boarding point for passengers travelling from Rome. It lies about 75 km north-west of Rome and can be reached by train from Roma Termini station in roughly an hour. It is a strategic GNV hub for services to Sicily, Sardinia, Tunisia and, in summer, Barcelona.
If you are boarding at Civitavecchia with a vehicle, GNV recommends arriving at the port at least 2 hours beforehand. On international routes such as the one to Tunis, check-in closes earlier: 3-4 hours before departure, depending on your ticket type and vehicle.
The port of Palermo: a call in the heart of the Mediterranean
The port of Palermo is the Splendid's main Sicilian call and one of GNV's busiest harbours in the Mediterranean. Sitting right in the centre of the Sicilian capital, it makes onward travel into the city straightforward. From Palermo, GNV runs regular services to Genoa, Naples, Civitavecchia and Tunis.
On domestic routes (Palermo–Genoa, Palermo–Naples), arriving 2 hours beforehand with a vehicle and 1 hour as a foot passenger is enough. For the international Palermo–Tunis route you must arrive 5 hours beforehand with a vehicle and 4 hours beforehand without one, to allow time for customs formalities.
Fares, discounts and how to book
As a guide, a deck ticket or seat on the Splendid starts at around €30–60 each way in low season on domestic routes (Civitavecchia–Palermo). International sailings to Tunis can go beyond €80–100, depending on the season and the accommodation chosen. Cabins and suites push the price up considerably, especially in summer.
Available discounts and schemes:
- myGNV (loyalty scheme): earn 1 point for every €10 spent on GNV tickets, plus 20 welcome points when you sign up. Redeem them against future bookings.
- Children: under-4s travel free. On the routes to Tunisia and Morocco, under-2s also travel free.
- Balearic residents: 75% off the base passenger fare on routes to and from the Balearic Islands (not applicable on the Civitavecchia–Palermo–Tunis route).
- Groups and large families: GNV offers special fares for large groups and for motorhomes.
- Early-booking offers: booking well ahead can cut the fare considerably, particularly in high season (July–August).
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, looking for the lowest fare | Deck ticket |
| Alone or as a couple, on a short overnight hop | Reclining Pullman seat |
| As a couple or with friends, wanting a proper rest | Double inside cabin |
| With the family (up to 4 people) | Four-berth or family outside cabin |
| Looking for sea views and maximum comfort | Suite (sea view, minibar, TV) |
| With a pet | Pet-friendly cabin |
| With reduced mobility | Adapted accessible cabin |
| On business, with a meeting on board | Conference centre (book in advance) |
ferry Splendid · Accommodations
Deck ticket · The cheapest option
The most affordable fare on the Splendid. It gives you access to all the ship's public areas: lounges, open deck, café, restaurant and shops. Ideal for daytime crossings or for travellers whose main concern is the price.
✓ Free access to all public areas
✓ Open deck with sea views
✓ Onboard Wi-Fi
✓ Access to the restaurant and café (food and drink not included)
Pullman seat · Reclining seat
A reclining seat in the passenger lounge. An affordable option that is noticeably more comfortable than a deck ticket on overnight or medium-length crossings. All the ship's shared facilities are included.
✓ Reclining seat in an air-conditioned lounge
✓ Access to the public areas and open deck
✓ Onboard Wi-Fi
✓ Ideal for overnight crossings without a cabin
Inside cabin · Rest in private
A cabin without a window, with bunks or a double bed, a full private bathroom (shower, WC, washbasin), a hairdryer and individual air conditioning. The best way to sleep properly on an overnight crossing at the keenest price, with privacy guaranteed.
✓ Private bathroom with shower, WC and washbasin
✓ Individual air conditioning
✓ Bed linen, towels and toiletries included
✓ Available as a double, triple or four-berth cabin
Outside cabin · With a view
A cabin with a porthole or window looking out to sea. It has the same fittings as the inside cabin, with the added benefit of natural light and the chance to watch the seascape go by from your own room.
✓ Porthole or window with sea views
✓ Private bathroom with shower, WC and washbasin
✓ Bed linen, towels and toiletries included
✓ Available as a double, triple or four-berth cabin
Suite · Maximum comfort
The most premium accommodation on the Splendid. A spacious room with a double bed, a large porthole looking out to sea, a minibar, satellite television and a radio. Available as a double (one double bed) or as a family suite (double bed plus sofa bed, sleeping three).
✓ Double bed and a large porthole with sea views
✓ Satellite TV, radio and minibar
✓ Full private bathroom with hairdryer
✓ Family suite available (sleeps up to 3)
✓ Bed linen, towels and toiletries included
Pet-friendly cabin · Travel with your pet
A cabin set up so that you can travel with your dog or cat. Your pet stays with you in the cabin for the whole crossing, with no need to leave it in the hold. A comfortable, reassuring arrangement for owners and animals alike.
✓ Your pet stays in the cabin with you
✓ Private bathroom in the cabin
✓ Offered by GNV on selected routes
✓ Your pet must be added to the booking at the time you book
ferry Splendid · On-board services
Food and drink: à la carte, self-service and Halal options
The Splendid has a broad food and drink offering designed for medium- and long-distance crossings. Her dining spaces include:
Shops and shopping on board
Open deck and outdoor areas
Children's area
Travelling with your pet
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The Splendid has 2 adapted cabins for passengers with reduced mobility, with wider doors and specific fittings in the bathroom. The ship has been modified specifically to improve access and the journey for passengers with special needs. To request assistance or information, the information desk is staffed 24 hours a day throughout the crossing.
Conference centre and MICE facilities
The Splendid has a conference centre and meeting rooms, which makes her a genuinely different choice for business travel and corporate events at sea. Through its GNV MICE and INCENTIVE programme, GNV offers five formats for groups: Full Charter, Partial Charter (dedicated areas), Mini-Cruises, Floating Hotel and Corporate Events (drinks receptions, lunches, dinners). There is also a library and a chapel on board.
Connectivity and entertainment on board
The Splendid offers onboard Wi-Fi to keep you connected during the crossing. GNV has included the Splendid in its fleet refit programme, backed by an investment of €25 million, which covers connectivity upgrades — among them the addition of Starlink — as well as new wellness facilities such as a spa and relaxation areas. There is also a cash machine (ATM) and information screens throughout the ship.
The Splendid during the COVID-19 pandemic
In March 2020 the Splendid was at the centre of a historic act of solidarity: she was converted into a hospital ship in just 10 days, with help from the Italian Naval Register (RINA) and numerous companies that donated their time and materials. Fitted out with 25 beds in single cabins with independent outside ventilation, TV and internet, she was handed over to the region of Liguria for a symbolic €1 to treat coronavirus patients. The ship could quickly be expanded by up to 400 extra beds if needed.
Frequently asked questions about the Splendid ferry
Which routes does the GNV ferry Splendid operate?
She mainly works the Civitavecchia–Palermo–Tunis route, covering the Civitavecchia–Palermo leg in ~14 hours, Palermo–Tunis in ~12 hours and the full Civitavecchia–Tunis run (with a call en route) in roughly 25-27 hours. In summer she may run the Civitavecchia–Tunis leg direct, with no intermediate call.
How long does the Splendid take from Civitavecchia to Palermo?
The Civitavecchia–Palermo crossing takes about 14 hours. The usual low-season departure is on Friday at around 19:00, arriving in Palermo the following morning.
Does the Splendid carry cars?
Yes. Her vehicle decks hold up to 1,010 cars or 150 articulated lorries. If you are travelling with a vehicle on a domestic route, arrive at the port at least 2 hours beforehand. On international routes (Tunis), 3-4 hours beforehand with a vehicle.
What accommodation does the Splendid offer?
Six options: deck ticket, reclining Pullman seat, inside cabin, outside cabin with a porthole, suite (double bed, minibar, satellite TV, sea view) and pet-friendly cabin. In total there are 485 cabins, including 24 suites and 2 adapted cabins for passengers with reduced mobility.
Are pets allowed on the Splendid?
Yes. The Splendid takes dogs and cats, which can stay with their owner in a pet-friendly cabin. Other small animals travel in a carrier. Your pet must be added to the booking at the time you book.
Is there free Wi-Fi on the Splendid?
The Splendid has onboard Wi-Fi. GNV is upgrading connectivity across the fleet — the Splendid included — with Starlink technology, as part of its €25 million refit programme. Check the terms of use and any charge when you book.
Is the Splendid accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. She has 2 adapted cabins for passengers with reduced mobility (wider doors and adapted bathroom fittings). The information desk is staffed 24 hours a day to help any passenger with special needs.
What restaurants are there on the Splendid?
An à la carte restaurant (with a children's menu), a self-service restaurant/buffet, a snack bar and a pizzeria in high season. On the routes to Tunisia she serves Halal menus in keeping with Islamic tradition.
How much does it cost to travel on the Splendid?
As a guide, a deck ticket starts at €30–60 on domestic routes (Civitavecchia–Palermo). On the route to Tunis, prices can exceed €80–100. Children under 4 travel free. Compare real-time prices here.
How early should I arrive at the port?
Domestic routes by car: 2 hours beforehand. Foot passengers: 1 hour. The international Palermo–Tunis route with a vehicle: 5 hours; without a vehicle: 4 hours. In high season (July–August), allow extra time.
Does the Splendid have a loyalty scheme?
Yes, through the myGNV scheme: earn 1 point for every €10 spent on GNV tickets, plus 20 welcome points when you sign up. Redeem them against future bookings.
What documents do I need to travel to Tunis on the Splendid?
To board for Tunisia you must carry a passport valid for at least 3 more months. Since 1 January 2025, a national identity card is no longer enough for EU citizens. Tunisian citizens travelling to Italy need a Schengen visa. If you are taking a vehicle, bring its documents and insurance (Green Card) too.
Is there a children's area and baby facilities on the Splendid?
Yes. The Splendid has a children's area. On board there are highchairs, baby seats, bottle warmers and changing facilities available free of charge on request. Under-4s travel free; on the routes to Tunisia and Morocco, under-2s also travel free.
Does the Splendid have a conference centre?
Yes. The Splendid has a conference centre and meeting rooms, ideal for business travel or corporate events at sea. GNV runs the GNV MICE and INCENTIVE programme, with formats covering Full Charter, Partial Charter, Mini-Cruises, Floating Hotel and Corporate Events.
