Split Ferry Port

Split Ferry Port (Trajektna luka Split) is the main passenger port in Split and the key departure point for ferries and fast catamarans to Croatia’s central Dalmatian islands, plus seasonal international sailings.

As Croatia’s largest passenger port, Split is the main hub for sea travel in Central Dalmatia, with frequent ferry lines connecting Split to nearby islands and seasonal international sailings to Italy (including routes such as Ancona and Bari when operating).

If you are heading to Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta, Korčula, Lastovo or traveling onward by sea, this page helps you get oriented fast: where the port is, which area to go to, and what to prepare before you join the queues. For broader planning, see our Split travel guide and Split ferries overview.

Split Ferry Port overview

  • Where it is: In Split’s City Port, a short walk from Riva and directly beside Split’s main bus station and Split train station.
  • Official port info: Port of Split (official website).
  • Main ferry operator: Jadrolinija (most car-ferry and many passenger services).
  • Fast catamarans: Additional passenger-only operators also depart from Split on selected routes and dates.
  • How early to arrive: In peak season, arrive well ahead of departure, especially if you are traveling with a vehicle (queues can build quickly in July-August).

Where is Split Ferry Port?

Split Ferry Port is in Split’s City Port on the waterfront, next to Riva and a short walk from the historic centre. The eastern side of the harbour is one of the busiest parts of the city because it sits between the Old Town and the port area, with shops, cafés and the main open-air market nearby.

It is also one of the easiest ferry ports in Croatia to reach by public transport: Split train station and Split main bus station are right in the port area, so connecting from bus/train to a ferry or catamaran usually takes only a few minutes on foot.

If you are arriving by plane, Split Airport (SPU) is roughly 20-25 km away by road; in normal conditions the transfer is often around 30-40 minutes, but allow extra time for summer traffic.

Address: Gat sv. Duje 1, 21000 Split.

GPS: 43.5049821, 16.444319.

Open in Google Maps | Port of Split (official website)

Split port

Port layout and piers

Split Ferry Port is a compact waterfront port, but departures can be spread across different piers. The key is to confirm your berth number (or the pier name) on the day of travel, then follow the signs along the waterfront.

Which pier (gat) do I need?

In Split, gat means a dock or pier. You will most often see departures referenced around Gat Sv. Duje and Gat Sv. Petra. International ferries often use Gat Sv. Duje, while many island car ferries depart from the local ferry area around Gat Sv. Petra, but this can change by sailing.

Best practice: check the electronic departure displays at the terminal and confirm your berth on the official Port of Split departures list, then walk straight to that berth.

Port of Split - departures and berths (official)

Car ferries vs catamarans - where to go

  • Car ferries: vehicles queue in lanes near the assigned ferry berth. If you are driving, follow signs for "Trajekt" and your destination, then join the vehicle line as directed by staff.
  • Catamarans (fast passenger boats): foot passengers typically queue and board on foot at the assigned pier. These sailings can feel busy in summer, so confirm the berth early and line up near the boarding point.
  • Rule of thumb: if your ticket includes a vehicle, go to the vehicle queue area for your sailing; if you are foot-only, head to the passenger boarding pier shown on the departures board.

Tickets and boarding - how it works at Split port

For most routes from Split, the smoothest plan is simple: buy tickets in advance when you can, confirm your departure and berth on the day, and arrive early enough to avoid last-minute queues. If you are still deciding your route, start with our Split ferries overview.

Buy tickets online

  • Jadrolinija: online tickets are recommended in summer, especially for routes where reservations are available and for travellers with vehicles.
  • Fast catamarans: operators like TP Line and Krilo sell tickets online and can sell out on popular summer departures.
  • Tip: keep a screenshot or offline copy of your ticket and booking details in case mobile signal is slow at the waterfront.

Want to lock in your sailing before you arrive in Split? The easiest way is to book ahead online - especially in July and August when popular departures can sell out. Book your ferry tickets online and keep your confirmation handy so you can go straight to the correct pier and boarding line.

Buy tickets at the port

  • Ticket offices: you can buy tickets at the port ticket offices, but queues can be long close to departure times in July and August.
  • If you travel with a vehicle: Jadrolinija notes that when buying a vehicle ticket you must present the vehicle registration document (traffic permit).
  • Same-day tickets: possible on many routes, but availability depends on the sailing and season - catamarans and peak weekend car ferries are the most likely to sell out.

How early to arrive for boarding

Arrival time depends on the operator and whether you travel with a vehicle. These official guidelines are a good baseline for Split, but always allow extra buffer in peak season.

  • Jadrolinija (general advice): Jadrolinija recommends being at the port at least 45 minutes before departure.
  • Jadrolinija lines with reservations: for sailings with a purchased reservation, Jadrolinija advises arriving 60 minutes before departure in summer and 30 minutes before departure in winter (cargo vehicles: 40 minutes).
  • TP Line catamarans: TP Line asks passengers to arrive at the boarding place at least 15 minutes before departure.
  • Krilo (Kapetan Luka) catamarans: Krilo states passengers are required to arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure, and boarding typically begins 30 minutes before departure.

Jadrolinija - FAQ (official) | Jadrolinija - lines with reservation (official) | TP Line - boarding places (official) | Krilo - terms and conditions (official)

Getting to Split Ferry Port

Split Ferry Port sits in the City Port waterfront zone and is one of the easiest ferry terminals in Croatia to reach by public transport. The port area is directly beside Split Main Bus Station and Split Train Station, so most connections are a short walk.

Walking from the Old Town and Riva

If you are staying in central Split, you can usually walk to the ferry port. From Riva, follow the waterfront east toward the harbour - the ferry terminal area is typically 5-10 minutes away on foot, depending on crowds and luggage.

  • Best tip: in peak season, walk earlier than you think - the last 300 m near the piers can get slow with rolling luggage and queues.
  • Meeting point idea: if you are traveling as a group, agree to meet near the bus station entrance first, then walk to the assigned pier together.

From Split Main Bus Station

The bus station is in the port area. After you get off your bus, you are already next to the ferry zone - follow signs for "Trajekt" (car ferry) or "Catamaran", or walk toward the waterfront and check the departures board.

  • Quick transfer: bus platform to ferry ticket offices and piers is typically only a few minutes on foot.
  • If you arrive close to departure: go straight to the departures board first to confirm the pier (gat) and berth, then deal with tickets.

From Split Train Station

Split Train Station is next to the bus station and the port. Exit the station and walk toward the harbour - you will see the ferry zone along the waterfront.

  • With luggage: aim for the most direct waterfront route rather than cutting through busy streets.

From Split Airport (SPU)

Split Airport (SPU) is outside the city (around 20-25 km by road). In normal traffic the transfer is often about 30-40 minutes, but allow extra time in summer and on weekends.

Option 1 - Airport shuttle bus to the main bus station (best for ferry connections)

The simplest airport-to-ferry option is the shuttle bus that goes directly to the main bus station by the port. This is usually the best choice if you have luggage or a tight ferry connection.

  • Where it drops you: Split Main Bus Station area - right beside the ferry port.
  • Ticket price: commonly listed as 8 EUR one-way on our Split Airport shuttle bus guide (always re-check before travel).
  • Schedule: see official "To and from the airport" details on the airport website.

Split Airport - to and from the airport (official)

Option 2 - Public bus (Promet line 37) - cheaper, slower

Promet line 37 (Split - Airport - Trogir) is the main public bus option. It is cheaper than the shuttle, but it can be slower and less convenient with luggage.

  • Ticket price: Promet lists the Airport - Split ticket as 3,00 EUR (check the current timetable and validity dates).
  • Travel time: often around 50 minutes, depending on traffic and stops.
  • Drop-off: the public bus does not always drop directly at the ferry piers, so you may need a short taxi ride or an extra local connection if you are pressed for time.

Promet Split - airport line (official)

Option 3 - Taxi, Uber, Bolt, private transfer

  • Fastest door-to-port option: best for late arrivals, families, or heavy luggage.
  • Price varies: fares change with demand and traffic - confirm the estimate in the app or at the taxi stand.

If you want a zero-stress arrival in Split, pre-book a private airport transfer and skip the taxi lines. You will be met at arrivals with a name sign and taken directly to your hotel or vacation rental in an air-conditioned Mercedes (vehicles for groups up to 7). If your accommodation is inside the pedestrian-only Old Town, the driver will drop you at the closest point reachable by car. Read more - Luxury private transfer - Split airport to Split.

Arriving by car

If you are driving to Split (or returning a rental car before taking a ferry), read travelling to Split by car for route planning and local driving tips.

  • Navigation tip: search for "Trajektna luka Split" or "Split Ferry Port" to avoid being routed to a different harbour point.
  • Expect congestion: roads around the port can slow down around sailing times, especially in July and August.
  • Drop-off plan: if you are not parking, agree a quick drop-off point near the bus station area and keep the stop short to avoid blocking traffic.

Parking near Split Ferry Port

"Where can I park near the ferry terminal?" Parking near Split Ferry Port is one of the most common practical questions, especially in July and August. The closest paid options fill up quickly, so it helps to know your best "Plan A" (close and easy), plus a realistic backup a short walk away. For a full overview of zones and payment methods, see our guide to parking in Split.

Best option for most travellers - official Split Parking lots near the centre

If you want a straightforward paid option, use one of the official Split Parking lots (many are 24 hours). Prices vary by zone and season, so check the current tariff before you park.

  • Non-street parking (official Split Parking) - typical rates: summer (1.6 - 30.9) 1,50 EUR/hour, winter (01.10 - 31.05) 1,00 EUR/hour, with 24-hour operation listed for many lots.
  • Bijankinijeva (official Split Parking lot): listed as an official parking location (Bijankinijeva ulica 2) and often used as a practical backup when the waterfront area is full. Check details.

Street parking zones - 2025 tariffs (Split Parking)

If you find an available street space near the port area, the official Split Parking street zones have clear summer and winter pricing (plus daily tickets). This is often the best-value option for a few hours, but availability close to the waterfront can be limited in peak season.

  • Zone 1 (SMS 708211): 1,20 EUR/hour (1.5 - 30.9) and 0,80 EUR/hour (1.10 - 30.04). Daily ticket: 18,00 EUR (summer) and 12,00 EUR (winter). Some Zone 1 locations include Bijankinijeva ulica.
  • Zone 2 (SMS 708212): 1,00 EUR/hour (summer) and 0,70 EUR/hour (winter). Daily ticket: 12,00 EUR (summer) and 8,40 EUR (winter).
  • Zone 3 (SMS 708213): 0,80 EUR/hour (summer) and 0,60 EUR/hour (winter). Daily ticket: 9,60 EUR (summer) and 7,20 EUR (winter).
  • Short-stop spaces (SMS 708214): 0,50 EUR per 20 minutes (useful for quick drop-offs).

Premium close-to-waterfront parking - expect higher prices

Some central waterfront lots are priced significantly higher than standard zones. They can be convenient if you only need a short stay and you find an open spot, but they are not ideal for long parking.

  • Example (Riva area, official Split Parking): summer pricing shown as 4,00 EUR for the first hour and 5,00 EUR for each additional hour (winter: 2,00 EUR first hour, 3,00 EUR each additional hour) on the official price list.

Practical tips for ferry days

  • If you are driving onto a car ferry: in peak season it is usually better to go straight to the vehicle queue for your sailing rather than parking first, unless you arrive very early.
  • Allow extra time in July and August: parking can take longer than the walk from the car to the terminal.
  • Keep a backup plan: if the closest areas are full, aim for a slightly longer walk rather than circling the port (traffic builds quickly around sailing times).
  • Always re-check tariffs: Split has different summer and winter pricing, and parking rules can change by street or lot. Use the official price list to confirm what applies where you park.

Facilities at Split Ferry Port

Split Ferry Port is in the middle of the city, so you are never far from essentials. The port area is open 24 hours, and you will find basic passenger services on-site plus many extra options within a few minutes on foot.

Essentials in the port area

  • ATMs: available in the port area.
  • Information: an on-site terminal info-centre is listed by the Port of Split.
  • Public toilets: available in the port area, and there are also toilets in the adjacent bus station building (useful if you arrive early or need facilities while waiting).
  • Food and drinks: cafés, bakeries, kiosks and small shops are clustered around the waterfront and transport hub, so you can easily grab coffee, snacks and water before boarding.
  • Pharmacy and supermarkets: several options are within walking distance in central Split if you need last-minute travel items.

Luggage storage - lockers and left-luggage options

If you have time in Split before your sailing, luggage storage can be a game-changer. The easiest official option is at the nearby train station, and there are also private left-luggage services around the port and main bus station area.

  • Train station lockers (official): Split station has wardrobe lockers in different sizes at Obala kneza Domagoja 8. Prices listed by HZ Passenger Transport are EUR 2 (small/medium) and EUR 3 (large) per 24 hours started.
  • Private left-luggage nearby: if lockers are full, check private luggage storage services close to the port and transport hub (hours and prices vary by provider).

Ticket offices and help desks

  • Jadrolinija tickets: Jadrolinija confirms ticket sales remain available at its Gat sv. Duje office and online.
  • Important 2025 note: Jadrolinija announced that its ticket office at Gat sv. Petar is closed from 2 October 2025 due to reconstruction, so use the Gat sv. Duje office instead.

Popular ferry and catamaran routes from Split

Split is the main ferry hub in Central Dalmatia, with frequent departures to the closest islands and longer sailings to more remote destinations. Routes and frequency change by season, so use the timetables in the section bellow to confirm the exact sailing times for your date.

Most-used car ferry routes (vehicles and foot passengers)

Fast catamarans (foot passengers only)

Catamarans are faster than car ferries and ideal if you travel without a vehicle, but they can sell out quickly in July and August. If you have a tight connection, arrive early and confirm the correct pier (gat) on the departures board.

International ferries to Italy (seasonal)

Split also has seasonal international sailings to Italy. These routes do not run every day year-round, so always confirm the current timetable and arrive earlier for check-in and boarding than you would for domestic island lines.

  • Split - Ancona - the most commonly referenced international ferry route from Split.
  • Split - Bari - operates seasonally; confirm availability and dates on the official operator timetable before planning your trip.

Timetables and service updates

Ferry and catamaran schedules from Split can change due to weather, operational updates, and seasonal timetables. For the most reliable information, always confirm your departure on the day of travel using our Ferries to and from Split guide and official sources - especially in July and August.

Check departures and berths for Split (official)

If you are unsure which pier (gat) to go to, use the Port of Split departures list. It shows real-time departures with the assigned berth, which is the fastest way to confirm where to board.

Split ferry operators

Book ahead if you travel in peak season

Want to lock in your sailing before you arrive in Split? Booking ahead online is often the easiest way to avoid sold-out departures and long ticket-office queues in summer. Book your ferry tickets online and keep your confirmation handy so you can go straight to the correct pier and boarding line.

Quick checklist for the day of travel

  • Confirm your departure time and destination on the operator timetable.
  • Confirm the berth number on the Port of Split live departures list.
  • Arrive early if you travel with a car, and allow extra buffer on weekends and in July-August.
  • If conditions are windy or stormy, expect delays and re-check the status before you join the queue.

Common problems and local tips

Split Ferry Port is straightforward once you are in the right place, the issues are usually timing, crowds, and weather. These practical demonstrating tips will help you avoid the most common mistakes.

Peak-season queues and sold-out sailings

  • Buy ahead when you can: catamarans and popular summer car ferries can sell out, especially on Fridays, weekends, and around holidays. If you do not have a fixed plan, at least check availability early and have a backup sailing in mind.
  • Arrive earlier than the minimum: operator "arrive by" times are minimums. In July and August, add extra buffer for traffic, parking, ticket lines, and finding the correct pier.
  • Go to the pier first, then deal with extras: if you are close to departure, confirm the berth and join the correct line before buying snacks or searching for shade.

Weather delays and cancellations - how to check fast

  • Check the Port of Split live departures list: it is the quickest way to confirm your sailing and the assigned berth on the day. Port of Split - live departures (official)
  • Check Croatia's traffic and ferry conditions: the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) posts current conditions and often flags ferry disruptions during strong winds. HAK - traffic report (official)
  • If it is windy: strong bora and jugo winds can affect sailing reliability. Re-check updates before you commit to driving into the port area.

Official live departures and berth info from the Port of Split helps most when conditions change quickly.

HAK publishes up-to-date notices that include ferry traffic difficulties during wind events.

Traveling with a car - practical reminders

  • Follow "Trajekt" signs: for car ferries, drive toward the vehicle queue area for your destination and join the correct lane as directed by staff.
  • Have booking and vehicle details ready: keep your reservation confirmation accessible and avoid last-minute searching at the gate.
  • Do not rely on finding parking first: on busy summer days, it is often better to go directly to the vehicle queue if you have a near-term sailing.

Traveling on foot - catamarans and fast ferries

  • Confirm the pier early: catamarans can depart from different piers depending on the operator and the day - check the departures board and the Port of Split live list.
  • Line up earlier in summer: even if your ticket is digital, boarding lines can build fast for popular routes.
  • Operator reminder: TP Line advises passengers to arrive at the boarding point at least 15 minutes before departure.

FAQ - Split Ferry Port

  • Is Split Ferry Port the same as the cruise port? They are in the same City Port area. Cruise ships use dedicated berths, while island ferries and catamarans depart from the passenger piers. Always follow the departures boards for your sailing.
  • Is there more than one ferry port in Split? For island travel, the main departure point is Split City Port (the central ferry terminal). Always verify your berth on the day of travel using the official departures list.
  • How early should I arrive? It depends on the operator and whether you have a vehicle. In peak season, arrive earlier than the minimum guidance and allow buffer for queues and traffic.
  • Can I buy tickets at the port? Yes, but queues can be long in July and August. Booking online is often easier for popular sailings.
  • How do I find my pier (gat)? Check the departures boards at the terminal and confirm the berth on the Port of Split live departures page.

Related guides

International ferries to Italy - check-in, documents, and what to expect

Split also has seasonal international ferry connections to Italy (most commonly Ancona, and some seasons Bari). International sailings work differently from island ferries - you must complete check-in with ID verification and arrive earlier for boarding.

Main Italy routes from Split (seasonal)

  • Split - Ancona: the best-known international ferry route. See our timetable guide: Split - Ancona ferry timetable.
  • Split - Bari: operates seasonally - confirm current dates and frequency on the operator timetable before planning.

Where to check in for Italy ferries in Split

International departures normally use the City Port area around Gat sv. Duje. Confirm the exact berth on the day using the official departures list, then follow signs for international check-in and passenger processing.

Port of Split - live departures and berths (official)

How early to arrive (important)

For international routes, do not use domestic island-ferry timing. Jadrolinija rules for international travel state that passengers should report to the agency no later than 2 hours before departure, and boarding on international routes starts 2 hours before departure.

  • Recommended baseline: arrive at the terminal area at least 2 hours before departure.
  • With a car: arrive earlier in high season to allow for traffic, check-in, and vehicle queueing.
  • With foot passenger tickets: still aim for the 2-hour window - you may need to collect/validate boarding documents before you can enter boarding lanes.

Documents and border procedures - what to carry

Split is an official international maritime entry/exit point, so you should travel with valid identification even if checks feel light on some days. At check-in, carriers can require identity verification before issuing a boarding pass.

  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: bring a valid passport or national ID card.
  • Non-EU citizens: bring your passport and any required visa/residence documents for the Schengen area.
  • Vehicles: bring the vehicle registration certificate/traffic permit (required for vehicle tickets).
  • Keep documents accessible: you may be asked to show ID at check-in and again during boarding.

Step-by-step - how international boarding usually works

  1. Arrive early and confirm the berth: check the Port of Split departures list and follow signage for the international ferry.
  2. Check in at the operator/agent: show ID (and vehicle documents if applicable) and receive/confirm boarding documents.
  3. Proceed to the correct lane: foot passengers and vehicles are processed separately.
  4. Board when called: international boarding generally starts earlier than domestic lines, so do not arrive last-minute.

Helpful tips for Split - Italy crossings

  • Book ahead in summer: popular weekends can sell out, especially cabins and vehicle space.
  • Cabins vs seats: for overnight or long crossings, a cabin can make a big difference in comfort.
  • Food and water: bring essentials for the terminal wait, especially if you arrive early for check-in.
  • Plan your arrival in Italy: ferries can arrive early morning or evening depending on the sailing - have onward transport plans ready.

FAQ - Split Ferry Port

Is Split Ferry Port the same as the cruise port?

They are in the same City Port area, but use different berths. Cruise ships dock at dedicated cruise berths, while island ferries and catamarans depart from the passenger piers. Always confirm your berth on the departures boards and the Port of Split live departures list.

Is there more than one ferry port in Split?

For island ferries and catamarans, the main departure point is Split City Port (Trajektna luka Split). Check your ticket confirmation and confirm the berth on the day of travel.

How do I find my pier (gat) and berth number?

Check the departures boards at the terminal and use the Port of Split live departures list, which shows departures with the assigned berth.

How early should I arrive for a car ferry vs a catamaran?

In peak season, arrive earlier than the minimum guidance. Car ferries can involve vehicle queues and check-in, while catamarans can have long boarding lines. Build extra buffer in July and August and on weekends.

Can I buy tickets at Split Ferry Port on the same day?

Often yes, but it depends on the route and season. Catamarans and popular weekend car ferries in July and August are the most likely to sell out. Booking ahead is safer for fixed plans.

Where is the Jadrolinija ticket office in Split?

Jadrolinija ticket sales are available at Gat sv. Duje and online. Jadrolinija announced the Gat sv. Petar sales point in Split is closed from 2 October 2025 due to reconstruction, so use the Gat sv. Duje office if you need to buy tickets in person.

What is the easiest airport to ferry port transfer?

The simplest option is the airport shuttle bus to the main bus station by the port, because it drops you right next to the ferry area. Allow extra time in summer traffic.

How do I transfer from Split bus station to the ferry?

Split Main Bus Station is in the port area. Walk toward the waterfront and check the departures board to confirm the pier (gat) and berth for your sailing.

How do I transfer from Split train station to the ferry?

Split Train Station is next to the ferry port and the main bus station. Follow signs toward the harbour and check the departures board for your berth.

Where can I park near Split Ferry Port?

There are paid street zones and paid lots near the port, but the closest options fill up quickly in summer. Arrive early and have a backup lot a short walk away.

Is there luggage storage near Split Ferry Port?

Yes. One convenient option is luggage lockers at Split Train Station, a short walk from the port. Availability and hours can vary, so check details before you rely on it.

What should I do if ferries are delayed due to weather?

Confirm the latest status on the Port of Split live departures list and on the operator timetable. If conditions are windy, expect delays and re-check updates before heading into the port area.

Where can I see all Split ferry routes and timetables on Absolute Croatia?

Use the Split ferries overview page to browse routes and jump to individual timetable pages for the islands and seasonal international lines.

Written by: Orsat Munitić