Mini guide on arrival in Piombino and ferry embarkation
Ferry embarkation
When the number of people going to Elba is high, as you approach the port of Piombino you will see port operators from each of the three shipping companies who will help you embark.
It is is very easy : once you reach Piombino you will see signs for the port and the quays.
Where to go whether you have already bought your ticket or not is clearly signposted. Straight on if you have, to the left if you haven't. There is a car park if you need to stop and buy your ticket.
Our advice is to always purchase your ticket beforehand, which can be done either in any ticket office or sitting comfortably at home and doing it on line
So all you do is turn left and you will see the quays in this order: first the Moby, then Moby - Toremar and finally Toremar.
When you are about to embark you might be told to drive onto the ramps at the side; if this is the case the crew will tell you as soon as you are inside the ferry. Normally smaller cars are put there.
Please make sure your car alarm is switched off for the entire crossing.
If you are travelling by camper you must remember to close any gas cylinders.
When the departures from Elba are numerous, like the days from April 25th to May 1st, and the weekends in July and August, we advise you to get to the port in Portoferraio in plenty of time because, depending on ferry departure time, there is always a long queue for Portoferraio from Porto Azzurro and from Procchio.
Car disembarkation
Once the ferry is entering the port, a voice will come over the loudspeakers telling passengers that DRIVERS ONLY may go down to the garage, whereas passengers only will be asked to disembark using the outside stairs.
Make sure you have all agreed on where to meet once off the ferry, because in Piombino, for example, on some quays the cars can leave the port by either turning right or left.
Some simple advice during the crossing
When the weather is nice enjoy the crossing out on the deck.
If you are quite happy without the air conditioning go on to the deck and admire the islands between Piombino and the coast of Elba from Cavo to Portoferraio.
You can also enjoy the company of the seagulls that fly behind the ship's wake, hoping to be thrown some food like crackers or breadcrumbs etc.
Some of the braver ones might even take the food from your hand: be careful however! A seagull's beak can be painful! Don't let your children do it.
