Dubrovnik to Bari car and passenger ferry | 2026 timetable

The Dubrovnik-Bari route is Dubrovnik’s key scheduled international ferry connection, linking Dubrovnik (Croatia) with Bari in Italy via Jadrolinija’s Route 54. This seasonal car ferry is one of the easiest ways to cross the Adriatic if you want to explore both Croatia and southern Italy with your own vehicle.

The official 2026 timetable is split into several date ranges (spring, summer, and early autumn). Some sailings are daytime crossings (for example, departures around 11:00 with arrival around 19:00), while other periods include later departures and arrival on the next day, so travel and arrival time depends on the specific sailing you choose.

The ferry departs from Gruž port in Dubrovnik. The route is typically operated by Jadrolinija’s ferry Dalmacija, which offers onboard facilities such as restaurants and bars, open deck areas, and family-friendly spaces.

Dubrovnik to Bari car ferry (Jadrolinija Route 54): 2026 tickets & vehicle quick guide

Tickets & cabins: Prices vary by travel date, passenger type, accommodation (seat/cabin), and whether you are taking a vehicle. As a rough guide, foot-passenger tickets often start from around €78 one-way (check live prices when booking). Cabins and upgraded seating may be available on select sailings and add to the total fare. The prices for these cabins start at 163 EUR for a 2-bed cabin. Children enjoy discounted fares.

Bicycles: You can travel with a bicycle, but make sure it is correctly declared during booking (especially if transported with a vehicle), as space availability and vehicle dimensions can affect acceptance at boarding.

Note: This is a seasonal route—always re-check the latest sailing time close to departure. We recommend that you purchase tickets for the Dubrovnik - Bari ferry in advance.

Dubrovnik to Bari ferry quick overview

• Route: Dubrovnik (Gruž) ↔ Bari
• Operator: Jadrolinija (Route 54)
• Type: International car ferry (vehicles accepted, including cars and other vehicle categories during booking)
• 2026 season: Seasonal sailings across late March to late October (see date ranges and timetables below)
• Typical crossing time: Around 8-10 hours depending on whether you choose a day or overnight sailing (example patterns in the 2026 timetable include 11:00→19:00 and 22:00→08:00)
• How often does it run? Frequency varies by date range; the peak-summer timetable includes multiple weekly departures

Quick answers most travellers need

• Can I take a car? Yes, this is a car ferry route, but vehicle spaces can be limited on popular summer dates.
• Is it running year-round? No, this is a seasonal service with different schedules by date range in 2026.
• Is it a day trip crossing? Some sailings are daytime crossings, while others are overnight, check the timetable period that matches your travel date.

Seasonal ferry timetables for departures/returns Dubrovnik - Bari

• High season
• Off season

Complete Dubrovnik - Bari timetable 2026 (Jadrolinija Route 54)

Timetable period: 31.03.2026 - 29.04.2026 and 20.10.2026 - 21.10.2026

Dubrovnik → Bari

Bari → Dubrovnik

Timetable period: 01.05.2026 - 21.06.2026 and 04.09.2026 - 18.10.2026

Dubrovnik → Bari

Bari → Dubrovnik

Timetable period: 26.06.2026 - 16.08.2026

Dubrovnik → Bari

Bari → Dubrovnik

Ship line no. 54 View Dubrovnik to Bari ferry complete timetable 2026 (PDF)

Tickets, prices, and how to book (passengers + cars)

The easiest way to secure a place (especially if you are travelling with a car) is to book online via our site or Jadrolinija’s official ticket shop. You can also buy tickets in Dubrovnik at Jadrolinija’s local agency in Gruž Port.

• Book online: (recommended for summer dates and all vehicle bookings)
• Buy in person (Dubrovnik): Jadrolinija Agency Dubrovnik, Stjepana Radića 40 (working hours vary by day/season—check the official "selling spots" listing before you go)

How much are Dubrovnik-Bari ferry tickets?

Ticket prices depend on your travel date, passenger type, seating/accommodation choice, and whether you are transporting a vehicle. As a rough guide, foot-passenger tickets on this route often start from around €78 one-way when booked in advance, but the final cost can be higher in peak season or with added services.

• What affects the price most: season (July-August is highest demand), availability, cabin/reclining-seat upgrades, and vehicle category (car, motorcycle, van, camper/motorhome)
• Discounts: reduced fares may apply for children and other eligible passenger categories (exact eligibility and prices are shown during the booking process)

Cabins and upgraded seating

On many sailings, you can upgrade from standard seating to more comfortable options. Jadrolinija highlights airplane-style reclining seats on the Dubrovnik-Bari route, and cabin options may be offered depending on the sailing/availability (confirm during booking).

Changes and corrections (important if plans are not fixed)

• Ticket changes: Jadrolinija notes that tickets for international travel can be changed up to one day before the scheduled departure (terms apply and price differences may be payable/non-refundable).
• Vehicle details matter: enter the correct vehicle type and dimensions during booking (this can affect pricing and acceptance at boarding).

Tip: If you are travelling with a car in peak summer, book as early as you can - vehicle spaces can sell out before foot-passenger space.

Taking a car on the Dubrovnik-Bari ferry

The Dubrovnik-Bari route is a car ferry, so you can bring a car, motorbike, van, or camper (availability and pricing depend on the vehicle category you select during booking). In peak summer, vehicle spaces can sell out, so booking early is strongly recommended.

Vehicle checklist (before you arrive)

• Booking confirmation: make sure your reservation includes the correct vehicle category and passenger details.
• Vehicle documents: Jadrolinija requires a traffic permit (vehicle registration document) when purchasing a vehicle ticket.
• Rental car? Bring the rental agreement and any documents your rental company provides for cross-border travel.
• Measure add-ons: if you have a roof box, bikes, or anything that changes height/length, declare it correctly during booking to avoid boarding issues.

Arriving at the port with a car (how early?)

• Minimum guidance (Jadrolinija): for lines with reservations, Jadrolinija advises arriving 60 minutes before departure in summer (and 30 minutes in winter).
• Practical tip for international sailings: if you are travelling with a vehicle on an international crossing, arriving 90-120 minutes before departure is a safer buffer for check-in, document checks, and port traffic (especially in July-August). If you arrive earlier or plan to leave your car in Dubrovnik, see our Dubrovnik parking guide for the best options near Gruž and the Old Town.

Boarding process (step-by-step)

1. Drive to the correct lanes at Dubrovnik (Gruž) and follow signs/staff instructions for vehicle boarding.
2. Keep documents handy (booking confirmation + IDs + vehicle paperwork).
3. Wait in the vehicle queue until loading begins.
4. Board when directed and park exactly as instructed by crew (handbrakeeck on, in-gear/park).
5. Take essentials with you (wallet, passports/IDs, valuables, medication, chargers, and anything you need during the crossing), as vehicle deck access may be restricted during sailing.

Bicycles on the car ferry

• Rooftop bicycles: Jadrolinija asks you to report the additional height during booking due to space availability.
• Hatchback-mounted bicycles: you must report the total length (vehicle + hatchback). If the total length exceeds 5 m, you need to buy a ticket for a vehicle over 5 m.
• Important: incorrectly declared vehicles (including vehicle dimensions) may not be guaranteed boarding.

Check-in times and travel documents

Because Dubrovnik-Bari is an international ferry route, plan extra time for check-in and document verification, especially if you are travelling with a vehicle.

When does check-in open?

• Jadrolinija check-in: check-in at the departure port opens 2 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How early should you arrive?

• Minimum guidance (Jadrolinija, reservation lines): arrive 60 minutes before departure in summer (30 minutes in winter).
• Best practice for this international route: aim to be at the port and ready for check-in when it opens (around 2 hours before departure), particularly in July-August and for all vehicle bookings.

What documents do you need?

• Personal ID: bring valid personal identification documents for all passengers (as required for international travel).
• Vehicle documents: bring your vehicle registration certificate (traffic permit). Jadrolinija notes this is required for vehicle-ticket verification before a boarding pass is issued.
• Booking confirmation: keep your booking/payment confirmation accessible (digital is usually fine).

If you want a practical overview of where to go and what to expect at the terminal in Dubrovnik, see our Dubrovnik ferry port (Gruž) guide.

Dubrovnik ferry port (Gruž): terminal info, parking, and how to get there

The Dubrovnik-Bari ferry departs from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž (Kantafig area). This is the main passenger ferry terminal for Dubrovnik and the departure point for most ferries and catamarans.

• Location: Gruž Bay (Kantafig), around 3 km from Dubrovnik Old Town
• Near: Dubrovnik’s main bus station (useful if you arrive by intercity bus)
• Terminal area: look for ferry check-in/ticket offices and vehicle lanes along the port road (Obala Stjepana Radića area)

Getting to Gruž from Dubrovnik Old Town

• By local bus: frequent city buses connect the Old Town area with Gruž; use our Dubrovnik city bus map to choose the right line and stop
• By taxi/Uber: fastest option, but allow extra time in summer traffic
• On foot: around 30-40 minutes depending on your route and pace

Getting to Gruž from Dubrovnik Airport

If you are landing at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), the simplest public option is the airport shuttle bus, which runs to Dubrovnik’s main bus station in Gruž (right next to the ferry port area). From the bus station, it’s a short walk to the passenger terminal and vehicle lanes.

Arriving by car and parking tips

If you are driving to the port to board the ferry, expect congestion around sailing times in peak season. If you need to park in Dubrovnik (instead of taking the car on the ferry), see our Dubrovnik parking guide for practical options near Gruž and the wider city.

For a step-by-step walkthrough of facilities and where to go at the terminal, see our Dubrovnik ferry port (Gruž) guide.

Onboard experience: seats, food, and facilities

The Dubrovnik-Bari route is typically operated by Jadrolinija’s ferry Dalmacija. Onboard, you’ll find a mix of indoor lounge areas and open decks, plus food and drink options for the crossing.

Seating and comfort

• Airplane-style seats: Jadrolinija promotes “airplane-style” seating on this route for a more comfortable trip than standard deck seating.
• Cabins: cabin availability can vary by sailing and booking options; if you want a bed for an overnight crossing, check the accommodation choices during the booking process.

Food and drink

• Restaurants and bars: Dalmacija is equipped with two restaurants, three bars, and a grill bar, so you can buy meals, snacks, and drinks onboard.
• Open deck: Jadrolinija specifically highlights enjoying a coffee on the ferry deck as part of the experience.

Families and accessibility

• Kids: there is a playroom and family-friendly areas to help children pass the time.
• Accessibility: Jadrolinija highlights easier movement for passengers with disabilities; if you need assistance, plan to arrive early and request help at check-in.

Tip: For overnight sailings, bring a light layer (lounges can feel cool) and keep essentials with you, as vehicle decks may not be accessible during the crossing.

Bari ferry port: where to go and how to reach the city

The Dubrovnik-Bari ferry arrives and departs from the Port of Bari. For Jadrolinija sailings, the check-in/ticket office is typically handled by Jadrolinija’s local port agent.

Bari, located in the Apulia region of Italy , is a major commercial centre and port, serving as a major ferry transportation hub for those travelling from Italy to visit neighbouring countries, such as Croatia and Greece. Read more about traveling from Croatia to Greece.

• Jadrolinija check-in in Bari (port agent): Barimar S.r.l., Port Embarkation Office, Box no. 1-2, Terminal Crociere e Traghetti (Schengen), entrance: Varco della Vittoria
• Where ferries usually leave from: the Dubrovnik route is commonly referenced as departing from the San Vito area/pier within the Port of Bari (follow port signage for ferries/croatia and confirm the exact boarding zone on your ticket/booking confirmation)

Getting from Bari Port to Bari city / Bari Centrale

• Distance: Bari Centrale (main train station) is roughly 5-6 km from the port area, depending on the exact terminal/gate
• Taxi: easiest option with luggage
• Bus: local buses connect the port area with the city (routes and stops can vary, so check current local info on arrival)

Tip: If you are travelling with a vehicle, follow the port’s vehicle-lane signage and arrive with extra time for international check-in and boarding procedures.

Luggage, pets, changes, delays, and cancellations

Rules and day-of-travel procedures can vary by ship and sailing. For the most accurate information, rely on Jadrolinija’s official notices and follow crew instructions on the day of travel.

Luggage: practical tips for this route

• Keep essentials with you: passports/IDs, wallets, medication, chargers, and a light layer for lounges and overnight crossings.
• Vehicle travellers: you can leave most luggage in the car, but take everything you will need during the crossing because access to the vehicle deck can be restricted while at sea.
• Label your bags: if you set luggage down in shared areas, add a name and phone number label.

Pets on the ferry

• Where pets can stay: Jadrolinija states that on ferry service lines, pets are generally not allowed in indoor passenger spaces and should stay on the deck.
• Dogs: dogs must be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle (assistance dogs are an exception).
• Pet documents: Jadrolinija notes pets should have valid vaccination documents and, for international travel, any required travel documents.

Changes, refunds, and ticket corrections

• If your plans might change: review the conditions shown during booking and in Jadrolinija’s official terms/FAQ before you pay, as rules can differ by ticket type and sailing.
• Vehicle details must match: enter the correct vehicle category and dimensions when booking to avoid check-in/boarding problems.

Delays and cancellations: how to check updates

• Official updates: Jadrolinija publishes service notices and traffic-status updates on its website; check these close to departure and again on the travel day.
• At the port: follow terminal information boards and staff instructions, especially for vehicle loading times and lane changes.
• Passenger rights: Jadrolinija references EU passenger-rights rules for sea travel (including cases of cancellation or delay); if your sailing is disrupted, keep your booking details and ask at check-in what your options are.

Useful official pages to monitor on the day: Jadrolinija passenger notices and traffic situation.

Where to buy tickets?

Jadrolinija office in Dubrovnik is shown in the map bellow. You can also buy tickets online, recommended for high season ferry connections due to limited ferry capacity.

JADROLINIJA Agency in Dubrovnik

Stjepana Radića 40, Dubrovnik, Croatia

tel. +385 20 41 80 00, +385 20 41 83 80, fax. +385 20 41 81 11

Website: Jadrolinija Ferry Company

Alternatives if Dubrovnik-Bari is out of season or sold out

If you can’t find a Dubrovnik-Bari sailing for your date (common in winter, or when vehicle spaces sell out in peak summer), these are the most practical alternatives for crossing between Croatia and Italy.

Best alternative for travellers with a car: Split ↔ Ancona

• Route: Split-Ancona ferry (Jadrolinija)
• Why it helps: you can travel by car on this international line, making it the closest comparable alternative when you still want to cross by ferry with your vehicle.
• Tip: check live availability and sailing times when booking, as schedules are seasonal and can change.

Foot-passenger alternative (no cars): Zadar (Gaženica) ↔ Ancona catamaran

• Route: Zadar-Ancona ferry (summer catamaran service)
• Important: this is typically a catamaran service and is generally foot-passenger only (cars are not permitted).
• When it works: useful if you don’t need a vehicle and you can reach Zadar easily during the summer season.

Alternative via Montenegro: Bar ↔ Bari

• Route: Bar (Montenegro)-Bari
• When it helps: an option if you’re already travelling through Montenegro and want to cross to Italy from the southern Adriatic.
• Tip: verify current operator, schedule, and vehicle acceptance for your exact date before you commit, as services can be seasonal.

If you’re flexible: try shifting your travel date by 1-2 days, or booking earlier (vehicle spaces often sell out first in July-August).

FAQ: Dubrovnik to Bari car ferry

Can I take a car on the Dubrovnik-Bari ferry?

Yes. Dubrovnik-Bari (Jadrolinija Route 54) is a car ferry route. Vehicle spaces are limited and can sell out in peak summer, so book as early as possible if you are travelling with a car, van, camper, or motorbike.

Is the Dubrovnik-Bari ferry running all year?

No. This is a seasonal route. Use the 2026 timetable tables on this page and re-check availability close to your travel date.

How long is the ferry from Dubrovnik to Bari?

It depends on the sailing. The published 2026 schedule includes both daytime and overnight crossings, so check the exact departure and arrival time for your date in the timetable section.

How early should I arrive at Dubrovnik port with a car?

International sailings and vehicle boarding take extra time. A good rule is to arrive around 90-120 minutes before departure in peak season so you have time for check-in, document checks, and port traffic around Gruž.

What documents do I need for the Dubrovnik-Bari ferry?

Bring valid personal ID for all passengers (as required for international travel), your booking confirmation, and vehicle paperwork (vehicle registration/traffic permit) if you are travelling with a vehicle.

Where does the Dubrovnik-Bari ferry depart from?

Departures are from Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž. For terminal tips and facilities, see our Dubrovnik ferry port (Gruž) guide.

Where does the ferry arrive in Bari?

Arrivals are at the Port of Bari. Follow port signage for ferries and check the exact gate/terminal details on your ticket or booking confirmation.

Are cabins available on the Dubrovnik-Bari ferry?

Cabin availability depends on the sailing and what is offered during booking. If you want a bed for an overnight crossing, check the accommodation options before you pay.

Can I bring a bicycle?

Yes, but declare it correctly when booking. If you are carrying bicycles on a vehicle (roof or hatchback), make sure the added height/length is correctly entered so you don’t run into boarding issues.

Can I travel with a pet?

Pets are subject to ferry rules (for example, restrictions in indoor passenger areas and requirements like leash/muzzle for dogs). Check the operator’s current pet policy close to travel and arrive early if you need assistance at check-in.