Italy's first marine reserve, a rocky coastline with snorkelling and walking, reached by hydrofoil from Palermo.
Ustica is a volcanic island about 67 km (36 nautical miles) north of Palermo and is home to Italy's first marine protected area, established in 1986. Liberty Lines hydrofoils leave from Molo Vittorio Veneto in Palermo port and take about 1 hour 30 minutes; one-way fares from booking sites start around EUR 24-27, rising in peak season. Departures are spread between morning and afternoon, with the first around 07:30 and the last around 18:00 on some days, so a day trip is possible mainly in the main season and the return time must be checked. The marine reserve protects clear waters and rocky coast, popular for snorkelling and diving; operators offer boat tours around the island and visits to sea caves. A walking trail circles the island's coast, passing the Faraglione di Ustica, rocky pools and the Torre Santa Maria, an 18th-century tower. The only town is Ustica village, with whitewashed houses, murals, cafes and fish restaurants. Hydrofoils are cancelled in rough seas, and winter service is reduced. Summer is the best time, from June to September, and the island is crowded in August. Water shoes and sun protection are helpful, since the shore is rocky.
| Distance | About 67 km (36 nautical miles) north of Palermo |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1h 30min by hydrofoil |
| Getting there | Liberty Lines hydrofoil from Molo Vittorio Veneto, Palermo port, to Ustica, about 1h 30min, about EUR 24-27 (~$27.60-31) one way; libertylines.it |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Porto di Ustica, 90010 Ustica PA |
How to get there
- Liberty Lines hydrofoil from Molo Vittorio Veneto: about 1h 30min, about EUR 24-27 (~$27.60-31) one way (libertylines.it)
- Slower ferry crossings may run in some seasons; check at booking
Location
Porto di Ustica, 90010 Ustica PA
38.7064, 13.1830 View on map
Highlights
- Marine protected area with clear water for snorkelling and diving
- Coastal walking trail and rocky pools
- Boat tours to sea caves
- Ustica village with murals and fish restaurants
- Torre Santa Maria and the Faraglione di Ustica
Tips for visiting
- Book the hydrofoil in advance in summer and check the return time
- Bring water shoes, since the shore is rocky
- Check the sea forecast; sailings are cancelled in rough weather
- Book boat tours or dive centres in advance
- Allow for no shade on the coastal trail
When to visit
June to September; reduced or no service in winter.
Accessibility
The village is hilly and the coastal paths are uneven, which makes wheelchair use difficult; hydrofoil boarding requires steps and should be discussed with the operator.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the hydrofoil from Palermo to Ustica?
About 1 hour 30 minutes with Liberty Lines.
How much does it cost?
From about EUR 24-27 one way, up to about EUR 40 in peak periods, as shown by booking sites.
Can Ustica be done in one day?
In the main season, yes, but the first departure and last return limit the time on the island to about six to eight hours.
Is there a beach?
Ustica has mostly rocky coast and small coves rather than sandy beaches.