Jadrolinija Line 56 - Split - Bari ferry
The Split to Bari ferry is one of the most practical ways to cross the Adriatic from Croatia to southern Italy, especially if you want to travel overnight, bring a vehicle, or arrive in Italy ready to continue through Puglia by car or train. This route connects Split (Croatia’s main long-distance ferry hub) with Bari, and it is currently operated by Jadrolinija on seasonal sailings.
Most crossings take around 10 hours (often roughly 9 to 11 hours depending on the specific sailing and season), so many departures are scheduled as overnight ferries. This is ideal if you want to save on accommodation and arrive in Bari in the morning. Split and Bari are about 145 nautical miles apart (approximately 268 km / 166 miles).
If you are planning dates, start with the Split to Bari ferry timetable 2026 below, then confirm final departure details in the official booking flow for your travel day.
Jadrolinija operates the Split - Bari route as ferry line 56, carrying both passengers and vehicles (car/motorbike/camper availability depends on the sailing and capacity). Ticket prices vary by travel date, passenger type, and onboard option (seat vs any accommodation offered), so the most reliable way to confirm your total is to check the sailing schedule and price list for your exact date. As a rough guide, one-way foot passenger fares on this route are often quoted from around €78+, but totals can change quickly in peak season. If you’re travelling with a vehicle (or adding a bike), it’s smart to book as early as possible for July and August, as vehicle spaces are usually the first to sell out.
Split - Bari ferry quick overview
- Route: Split (Croatia) - Bari (Italy)
- Operator: Jadrolinija (Ferry line 56)
- Typical crossing time: about 10 hours (many sailings run overnight, so you arrive the next morning).
- How often: usually around 1 sailing per week in each direction, with seasonal day and time patterns depending on the timetable period.
- Best for: reaching Italy overnight, travelling with a car/motorbike/camper, and saving a hotel night on the way to Puglia and southern Italy.
International sailings like Split - Bari run on stricter check-in routines than island ferries, so it is worth building extra time into your plan. If you are travelling on foot, arriving 60-90 minutes before departure usually keeps things stress-free. If you are bringing a vehicle or travelling in July and August, allow additional time for vehicle lanes and staged boarding at Port Split. If you get into the centre early and need a place to park before heading to the terminal, use our guide to parking in Split. For other routes from Split, see all ferry connections from Split.
Below you will find the 2026 Split - Bari timetable for Jadrolinija ferry line 56, grouped by the schedule validity periods so you can quickly match the right pattern to your travel dates. You will also find practical booking tips, what usually changes the final price (season, onboard option, vehicle category), and how to choose the best overnight crossing if you want to arrive in Bari and continue straight into Puglia.
Operator overview: Jadrolinija Line 56 (Split - Bari)
| Operator | Route name | When it runs | Typical departure style | Cabins | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jadrolinija | Ferry line 56 (Split - Bari) | Seasonal 2026 timetable with multiple validity periods | Mostly overnight departures (often around 22:00 from Split) | Check availability during booking (depends on ship/sailing) | Yes (cars and other vehicles can travel on this line) |
Jadrolinija (Line 56) - 2026 schedule
The official Jadrolinija timetable is split into date ranges (validity periods). Match your travel date to the correct period below. Times are local port time and crossings are overnight.
Timetable period: 30.03.2026 - 29.04.2026 and 19.10.2026 - 22.10.2026
| Direction | Day | Depart | Arrive | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Split → Bari | Monday | 22:00 | Tuesday 08:00 | Overnight |
| Bari → Split | Wednesday | 22:00 | Thursday 08:00 | Overnight |
Timetable period: 30.04.2026 - 21.06.2026 and 03.09.2026 - 18.10.2026
| Direction | Day | Depart | Arrive | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Split → Bari | Thursday | 22:00 | Friday 08:00 | Overnight |
| Bari → Split | Sunday | 22:00 | Monday 08:00 | Overnight |
Timetable period: 25.06.2026 - 31.08.2026
| Direction | Day | Depart | Arrive | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Split → Bari | Thursday | 22:00 | Friday 08:00 | Overnight |
| Bari → Split | Monday | 21:00 | Tuesday 07:00 | Overnight |
Ship line no. 56 View Split to Bari ferry complete timetable 2026 (PDF)
Tip for return trips: the Bari → Split sailing day is not always the same as the Split → Bari day, so check both directions in the table and match them to your travel week. Because this is an overnight crossing, the arrival is on the next calendar day (for example, a late-evening departure arrives the following morning). All times shown are local port time - Croatia and Italy use the same time zone (CET/CEST), but always rely on the published timetable for your exact date.
Common mistakes to avoid (especially with vehicles and overnight sailings)
- Forgetting vehicle documents: if you are bringing a car or motorbike, keep your vehicle registration documents and the required traffic permit ready for check-in.
- Arriving too late for vehicle lanes: vehicle processing takes time, and queues build quickly in July and August - plan to be at the port around 2 hours before departure in peak season.
- Leaving essentials in the car: once the ferry departs, access to the garage is typically restricted, so take chargers, medicines, water, and anything you need for the night onboard.
- Assuming it runs daily: Split - Bari is a seasonal route and often operates roughly weekly, so always match your date to the correct timetable period before you plan connections.
Looking for more routes and timetables from Port Split? Browse all ferry lines from and to Split in one place. If you have extra time before check-in, take a short walk around the old town and see the top attractions in Split so you start your trip to Italy with more than just a port view.
If you are arriving by car and want a straightforward parking option close to the terminal area, Bijankinijeva Street is a practical fallback that many travellers use because it is close to the port zone and about a 10-15 minute walk from the harbour area. In Bijankinijeva there are typically two paid options: street parking spaces along the road, and a larger off-street parking lot next to the Tommy supermarket at Bijankinijeva ulica 2. Both options are generally operated as part of the city parking system, so availability can tighten quickly in peak summer. For current zones, rules, and alternatives, see our guide to parking in Split.
Split - Bari ferry tickets and prices
Prices on the Split - Bari route can change depending on the sailing date, demand, onboard accommodation (if offered), and whether you add a vehicle. Jadrolinija publishes the official sailing schedule and price list via its booking system, so always verify the final total for your exact date before you travel.
Indicative one-way prices (Split - Bari, Jadrolinija Line 56)
The table below shows commonly listed indicative prices for this route in low vs high season. Treat these as a realistic planning range, not a guaranteed fare.
| Ticket type | Low season (approx) | High season (approx) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult foot passenger | EUR 78 | EUR 85 | Final price depends on date and availability |
| Child (3-12 years) | EUR 39-43 | EUR 39-43 | Children typically travel on a reduced fare, often around 50% of the adult price - confirm during booking |
| Car (up to 5 m length) | EUR 101 | EUR 106 | Vehicle space is limited and often sells out first in July-August |
| Car (over 5 m length) | EUR 128 | EUR 128 | Larger vehicle categories can price differently - check the exact category in the booking flow |
Tip: If you are travelling with a vehicle (car, motorbike, camper), book early for peak summer dates and double-check check-in requirements in the Jadrolinija booking confirmation.
How to pay less (and avoid sell-outs)
- Book early for summer: vehicle spaces and cabins are limited and often sell out first on popular weeks.
- Compare seat vs cabin: if you are taking an overnight ferry, a cabin can be worth it for sleep and privacy, but it increases the price.
- Be flexible by 1 day: shifting your departure by a day can make a noticeable difference to price and availability.
- Check live fares for your exact date: pricing changes frequently and promos are limited.
How to book Split to Bari ferry tickets
The fastest way to lock in your Split to Bari crossing is to book online, especially in summer when cabins and vehicle spaces can sell out. To save time, we recommend starting with our booking link first because it lets you check dates and availability in one place. If you prefer, you can also book directly with Jadrolinija ferry company.
Book online (recommended)
- Start here (recommended): use our booking link to compare available sailings and secure tickets for your preferred date, including cabins and vehicles.
- Official operator sites: you can also book directly with Jadrolinija (Split - Bari, Line 56) if you prefer.
When to book
- July and August: treat this route like a limited-seat event - book early if you need a car space or any upgraded onboard option, because availability is finite and the busiest weeks sell out first.
- Spring and early autumn: you usually have more choice, but popular travel weekends can still fill up close to departure.
Have these details ready
- Passenger info: the full names and dates of birth requested during checkout.
- Travel ID: a passport or national ID that is valid for international travel between Croatia and Italy.
- Vehicle info (if applicable): vehicle type (car, motorbike, camper) and the correct length category. Jadrolinija requires the traffic permit for vehicle travel and you may be asked for the licence plate during booking or check-in.
- Onboard choice: pick from the seating or accommodation options shown for your specific sailing (availability can vary by date and ship).
Quick tips for choosing the right sailing
- Want to arrive ready for Puglia? most Split → Bari departures are overnight, so you wake up in Italy and can continue straight to Bari Centrale, the old town, or onward by car.
- Travelling with kids or need proper rest? if your sailing offers cabins or upgraded seating, they are worth considering on overnight departures for better sleep.
- Flexible by a day? shifting by 24 hours can make it easier to find vehicle space and sometimes improves pricing, especially in July and August.
Alternative: ticket offices at Port Split and Port of Bari
You can also buy tickets and handle check-in at port ticket offices. This can work in quieter periods, but for peak summer travel (especially with a vehicle) booking online is usually the safer option.
Split (Port Split)
- Jadrolinija (Split office): Agency Split, Gat Sv. Duje bb, Split. Email:
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Bari (Port of Bari)
- Jadrolinija port agent (Barimar S.r.l.): Port Embarkation Office, Box no. 1-2, Terminal Crociere e Traghetti (Schengen), entrance: Varco della Vittoria, Bari. Tel: +39 080 9262 563. Email:
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Check-in, boarding times and travel documents
Split - Bari is an international ferry route, so plan for check-in, document checks, and boarding queues at Port Split, especially in summer. Arriving early makes the whole process calmer, particularly if you are travelling with a vehicle.
How early to arrive
- Minimum guidance (Jadrolinija lines with reservations): in summer, Jadrolinija advises arriving 60 minutes before departure, while in winter the reminder is 30 minutes before departure.
- Practical buffer for foot passengers: aim for 60-90 minutes before departure in high season so you are not rushing.
- Vehicles (car, motorbike, camper): plan to be at the port around 2 hours before departure in July and August to allow time for queues, category checks, and staged boarding.
- Departing from Bari: the local port agent notes that international ticket holders should report at least 2 hours before departure.
What happens at check-in
- Booking validation: staff confirm your reservation and issue boarding instructions (and accommodation details if applicable).
- Vehicle processing: your vehicle category and documents may be checked, then you will be directed into the correct waiting lane.
- Boarding: vehicles usually board in controlled waves; foot passengers board via the passenger terminal when called.
Travel documents you should carry
- Passport or national ID: suitable for international travel between Croatia and Italy.
- Booking confirmation: keep it on your phone and consider a printed backup.
- Vehicle documents (if applicable): registration, insurance, driving licence, and the vehicle traffic permit.
- Pets (if applicable): pet passport and vaccination documentation as required.
Useful tips for smooth boarding
- Pack a small essentials bag: if you board with a vehicle, you may not be able to access it during the crossing.
- Keep valuables with you: passports, wallets, and devices should stay on your person, not in the car.
- Recheck updates on sailing day: weather or operational changes can affect timings, so confirm your departure before heading to the port.
Ports guide: Split ferry port and Bari ferry terminal
Both terminals are easy once you know the basics, but international sailings work best when you arrive with a plan. Use the quick notes below to find the right area fast, especially if you are travelling overnight or bringing a vehicle.
Split ferry port (Port Split)
- Where it is: Split ferry port sits on the edge of the Old Town, right next to the main bus station and the train station, so it is walkable from most central accommodation.
- Where to go for Bari: follow signs for the international terminal area and look for the Bari check-in and boarding notices on departure day (gates can vary by sailing).
- Tickets and port basics: for layouts, facilities, and practical tips, see Port Split.
- Parking: if you are arriving by car, plan ahead in summer and read our parking in Split guide.
- Arrive early: queues are most common in July and August, particularly for vehicle check-in and staged boarding.
Bari ferry terminal (Port of Bari)
- Where you arrive: passenger ferries use the Stazione Marittima and Terminal Crociere e Traghetti area along Bari’s waterfront, commonly referenced around Corso Antonio De Tullio. International departures often use the access gate signed as Varco della Vittoria.
- Getting to the city and Bari Centrale: Bari’s centre is close by. For most travellers, the simplest options are a short taxi ride or a city bus connection to Bari Centrale (the main station for trains across Puglia and onward to the rest of Italy).
- Driving onward: if you are continuing by car, follow port signage out toward the main road network for fast access to routes such as the SS16 ring road and the A14 corridor north toward Foggia and beyond.
- Returning to Croatia: arrive early, follow signs for the ferry check-in lanes, and confirm your correct terminal area (passengers and vehicles are often directed through separate, clearly marked approaches inside the port).
Arriving in Bari: getting from the port to Bari Centrale
Split - Bari sailings usually arrive in the morning, and the good news is that Bari is compact. The ferry terminal area (Stazione Marittima) is close enough to the centre that you can reach Bari Centrale quickly by taxi, city bus, or on foot.
Port of Bari to Bari Centrale - your options
- By taxi (fastest): the simplest option with luggage, especially early in the morning. Taxis are typically picked up outside the passenger terminal area at the port. If you need to call one, local port guides list a Bari taxi contact number (+39 080 5543333).
- By city bus (budget-friendly): public buses connect the port area (Stazione Marittima) with Bari Centrale. Journey times are typically around 10-15 minutes and tickets are commonly listed at around EUR 1, depending on the operator and ticket type.
- On foot (easy with light luggage): if you are travelling light, it is a straightforward walk of about 25 minutes (roughly 2 km) between Bari Centrale (Piazza Aldo Moro) and the ferry terminal area.
Where to wait if you arrive early morning
If you arrive very early and want somewhere warm to sit, heading to Bari Centrale is often the most comfortable choice because it has indoor waiting areas and services on site. Food and coffee options inside the station start early, with some venues listed as opening from around 05:30, so you can grab breakfast before your onward train or local connection.
Onboard experience (seats, rest options and facilities)
The Split - Bari ferry often sails overnight, so your comfort depends on what you book. If you are travelling light and can sleep in public areas, a basic ticket may be enough for a single night at sea. If you want proper rest, are travelling with kids, or need to arrive in Bari feeling fresh, it is worth checking which upgraded seating or cabin options are available for your specific sailing during booking.
Seats and cabins - what to choose
- Standard seat: usually the lowest-cost option. It works for short sleepers, but comfort depends on the ship layout and how busy the sailing is.
- Reclining or premium seating (if offered): a practical upgrade on overnight departures if you want more space without paying for a cabin.
- Cabin (if offered on your sailing): the best choice for privacy and real sleep on an overnight crossing. Cabin categories and availability depend on the ship and date, so check early for July and August.
What facilities to expect onboard
- Food and drink: most international sailings have at least a café or bar service, and some ships also provide a restaurant option.
- Indoor lounges: common seating areas where you can rest, read, and charge devices (varies by ship and sailing).
- Outdoor decks: great for departure views from Split and arrival scenery near Bari when weather is good.
- Vehicle deck access: after boarding, access to the car deck is usually restricted during the crossing, so bring essentials with you before you settle in.
Quick comfort tips for the Split - Bari night crossing
- Bring a layer: indoor lounges can feel cool at night, even in summer.
- Keep a small essentials bag: charger, water, snacks, basic toiletries, and anything you want during the night.
- Board ready to rest: if you are travelling without a cabin, getting onboard early can help you find a quieter seat and settle in before departure.
Travel rules (luggage, pets, bicycles and vehicles)
For Split - Bari you are travelling on an international Jadrolinija car ferry line, so pack with the crossing in mind: keep valuables with you, expect restricted access to the vehicle deck during the voyage, and follow the published rules for baggage and pets.
Luggage
- International baggage limit: Jadrolinija's passenger rulebook sets a maximum of 30 kg of hand baggage on international routes.
- Keep essentials with you: carry passports/ID, medicines, chargers, and valuables in a small day bag so you are not relying on access to your vehicle during the crossing.
- If you travel with a vehicle: luggage stored in the car is your responsibility, and access to the garage is generally restricted once the ferry departs.
Pets
- Which pets are allowed: on Jadrolinija, pets such as dogs, cats, birds and other small animals can travel if they do not pose a risk or disturbance.
- Where pets can stay: on ferry service lines, pets are generally required to stay on the deck and are not allowed in indoor passenger areas. Service dogs are an exception.
- Basic handling rules: dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle (except assistance dogs). Bring documentation needed for international travel.
Vehicles and bicycles
- Vehicle documents: when buying a vehicle ticket, Jadrolinija requires the vehicle registration certificate and also reminds passengers to present a traffic permit for vehicle travel.
- No garage access during the trip: passengers are not allowed to enter the vehicle garage during the journey for safety reasons, so take everything you need before departure.
- Bicycles: bicycles are allowed on international routes according to the current price list. If you are carrying bicycles on a car roof rack, Jadrolinija notes there is no extra charge, but you should correctly declare the additional height during ticket purchase.
Alternatives to Split - Bari (when it is sold out)
If the Split - Bari ferry is full on your travel day, you still have good options. In peak summer, vehicle spaces often disappear first, so it helps to check alternatives early rather than hoping for last-minute availability.
Try a different day (the simplest fix)
- Shift by 1 day: moving your crossing by a day can quickly open up space, especially for cars and campers.
- Be flexible with onboard options: if your preferred rest option is not available, you may still find space with a different seating or accommodation choice offered during booking.
Use a different Italy route from Split
- Split - Ancona: if Bari dates are limited or sold out, the Split to Ancona ferry is the main alternative from Split, often with a broader seasonal pattern and different arrival region in Italy.
Other Croatia - Italy ferry routes
- Zadar - Ancona: if you are travelling via Zadar, check the Zadar to Ancona ferry as an alternative way to reach Italy.
- Dubrovnik - Bari: if you are further south near Dubrovnik, consider the Dubrovnik to Bari car ferry for direct access to Puglia and southern Italy.
Overland backup (drive via northern Croatia and Slovenia)
- Drive instead of sailing: if ferries are sold out, driving via northern Croatia and Slovenia can be a reliable fallback, especially if you are already travelling with a vehicle.
- Reposition to another port: in some cases it is faster to adjust your plan and depart from another Croatian port than to wait for a sold-out Split departure.
FAQ - Split to Bari ferry
Is the Split - Bari ferry year-round?
No. Split - Bari is a seasonal international route. For 2026, Jadrolinija publishes sailings in specific timetable periods (spring, peak summer, and early autumn), rather than running daily year-round.
How often does the Split - Bari ferry run in 2026?
In 2026 the route generally runs about once per week in each direction, but the sailing day changes by season. For example, some periods show Split departures on Monday nights, while others show Thursday nights. Always match your date to the correct validity period in the timetable.
How long is the ferry from Split to Bari?
Most 2026 crossings are overnight and take roughly 10 hours based on the published timetable, with common patterns such as 22:00 departure and morning arrival.
What time does the Split - Bari ferry depart and arrive?
Most sailings are scheduled overnight. Typical patterns in the 2026 timetable include departures around 22:00 from Split with morning arrival in Bari, and return departures from Bari in the late evening with morning arrival back in Split. Exact days and times depend on the validity period.
How early should I arrive for check-in and boarding?
Jadrolinija advises passengers on lines with reservations to arrive 60 minutes before departure in summer and 30 minutes before departure in winter. Because Split - Bari is an international route and vehicle processing can take longer, it is smart to arrive earlier if you have a car or are travelling in peak season. If you are unsure, follow the instructions in your booking confirmation.
What documents do I need for the Split - Bari ferry?
Bring a passport or national ID valid for international travel. If you are travelling with a vehicle, carry your vehicle documents and be ready to present the traffic permit, which Jadrolinija requires when buying a vehicle ticket. If you travel with a pet, bring the required vaccination and travel documentation.
Can I take a car, motorbike or camper on the Split - Bari ferry?
Yes, you can travel with a vehicle on this line (availability depends on capacity and date). Vehicle spaces can sell out first in peak summer, so booking early is recommended for July and August.
What is the luggage allowance on Jadrolinija international routes?
Jadrolinija's passenger rulebook allows up to 30 kg of hand baggage on international routes. You are responsible for your luggage during the trip, so keep valuables and essentials with you.
Are pets allowed on the Split - Bari ferry?
Yes, pets such as dogs, cats, birds and other small animals can travel if they do not pose a risk or cause a disturbance. On Jadrolinija ferries, pets are not allowed in indoor passenger spaces (lounges, restaurants, toilets, reclining-seat areas), except assistance dogs. Dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle (except assistance dogs), and pets must have valid vaccination documents and any required international travel documents.