Minors on board: documents, rules and advice for travelling by ferry.
Organising a ferry holiday with children is a wonderful experience, capable of creating unforgettable memories for the whole family! To ensure a smooth and safe journey, ferry companies have established some guidelines. In this section of the website you will find a general overview of common provisions, designed to support you in your planning. Please bear in mind that specific requirements for young passengers (accompanied, unaccompanied or in foster care) can vary; it is therefore essential to check the guidelines of the chosen company, particularly for international travel.
For the safety and comfort of children, many ferry companies define a minimum age for travelling without an accompanying adult, which is usually around 14 or 15 years old. If your child is travelling with a person other than their parents, a waiver may be required, a document that certifies the responsibility of the accompanying person and which must be accompanied by a copy of the parents' identity documents.
If you have teenagers travelling without parents or a child travelling with only one parent, ferry companies may require further documentation to authorise the journey. This documentation may include written authorisations from parents or legal guardians, declarations of responsibility and, for international travel, specific documents for travelling abroad (such as written authorisations from both parents or the legal guardian).
For your family to enjoy the journey with peace of mind, good planning is important. We therefore recommend that you always check the specific requirements of the ferry company chosen for your holiday. Regulations on the transport of minors can vary, and checking in advance will help you avoid surprises and prepare an unforgettable experience for everyone!