Traveling by ferry with your car is an experience many people don't consider until they try it once. When they do... there's no turning back. The freedom of bringing your own vehicle, without worrying about renting, depending on schedules, or hauling suitcases across half the island. If you're thinking about exploring Menorca at your own pace, this guide is for you. If you've already decided, here's this direct link to check the schedules and ferries Barcelona Menorca.
Why travel by ferry with a car to Menorca?
First, the basics: no, you don't need to be a sailor or have a 4x4 SUV ready for lunar terrain. Your regular car will do. Advantages? Many:
- You save on car rental on the island (which, in summer, hurts).
- You can bring luggage without worrying about extra suitcases.
- You visit hidden coves and spots where the bus can't even dream of reaching.
- You're free: you arrive, get in your car and... Menorca is yours.
Plus, the ferry itself is part of the trip. No claustrophobic airplane cabins or seats as hard as marble. Here, we're talking about sun decks, sea on the horizon, and bars where you can have a beer as you set sail for your island adventure.
How do ferries from Barcelona work?
Easy. Well, more or less. Most ferries connecting the peninsula with Menorca depart from Barcelona's port and arrive at one of these two destinations: Mahón (to the east) or Ciutadella (to the west). Depending on your plan on the island, choosing one or the other can save you miles (km).
Main companies operating the route
As of today, the most well-known shipping companies operating this route are:
- Baleària
- Trasmed (from the Grimaldi group)
- GNV (less frequent, but present in high season)
Each has its own schedules, types of ships, and luggage or pet policies. Some even offer cabins in case you prefer to sleep during the journey. Spoiler: if you're traveling at night, booking one isn't a bad idea.
Types of ferry and trip duration
The time varies depending on the type of ferry and the company. There are no bullet trains here, but it's not endless either:
- Fast ferry: around 2.5-3.1 hr (usually to Ciutadella)
- Conventional ferry: 4.3-5.6 hr (ideal if you want a more relaxed trip or to travel at night)
The difference? The fast one is more expensive, noisier, and with less outdoor space. The conventional one is like a maritime road trip: slow but epic.
How do I book the ticket with a car?
This is where "level 2" of the trip begins. It's not that it's difficult, but there's a trick. When you book, make sure to select the vehicle option correctly. No, don't put "standard car" if you're bringing a 16.4 ft (5 m) camper van. The shipping companies measure, and if you go over, they'll charge you. Sometimes a lot.
Information you need to book:
- Make, model, and license plate of the vehicle
- Length (if it's something non-standard)
- Number of passengers
- If you're bringing a trailer or high roof racks
The online system is usually clear. If you get confused, call. The websites don't always explain everything, and an agent can save you expensive mistakes.
How much does it cost to take the car on the ferry?
The million-dollar question. Like everything in tourism, the answer is: it depends. But here are some indicative ranges for a one-way trip (per person + car):
- Low season: 90€ – 150€
- High season (summer): 180€ – 300€
- With cabin: add between 40€ and 100€ more
- Extras: pet, trailer, extra insurance... watch out!
A veteran's tip: book in advance. In July and August, prices skyrocket and ferries fill up. Literally. If you're traveling with a car, spots are even more limited.
From which port do you depart in Barcelona?
All ferries to Menorca depart from Barcelona Port, specifically from the Ferry Terminal located at Moll de Sant Bertran or Moll d’Adossat (depending on the company). Don't just trust the GPS. Check your confirmation email carefully, because the terminals are several miles (km) apart from each other.
In Menorca, which port do you arrive at?
As we said before, there are two:
Port of Mahón: ideal if your accommodation is in the east or in areas like Es Castell, Sant Lluís, or the southeast beaches.
Port of Ciutadella: perfect for the west, Cala en Bosch, Cala Morell, Macarella...
Both ports are well connected by road. If you arrive with a car, plan according to your route.
What's boarding with a car like?
This is the most "logistical" part of the matter. Arriving early is key. Ideally, you should be at the terminal about 2 hours before departure. Why so early?
- Ticket and document check
- Vehicle inspection
- Lining up to board the ferry (like a giant Tetris)
The staff will tell you when and how to enter the ship. Follow their instructions to the letter. Literally. Some ships are tight on space and any distraction can complicate boarding.
Once inside, you park the car, turn everything off (even the alarm, which can go off with the rocking), and go up to the decks. During the trip, you can't return to the vehicle, so bring what you need with you.
Can you sleep on the ferry?
Yes, of course. But it depends on the ferry you choose. Some offer airplane-style seats (cheaper), others have private cabins (more comfortable), and the most economical are... well, the floor and a sleeping bag if you're young, adventurous, and hernia-free.
If you're traveling with children, seniors, or simply want to arrive rested, the cabin is worth it.
What if I travel with a pet?
Another good reason to bring your own car. Some shipping companies allow your furry friend to travel inside the vehicle, as long as it's not a very long route or with extreme temperatures. Others have pet-friendly areas, with cages or special cabins.
Read the fine print. Really. Each company has its own rules, and last-minute changes aren't always possible.
Real tips to survive (and enjoy) the trip
- Bring snacks and water. The ship's cafeteria exists, but it can be expensive or have endless lines.
- Bring a jacket. Even in August. Sometimes it gets unexpectedly chilly.
- Headphones. Children, engines, loudspeakers... you choose your soundtrack.
- Portable charger. Because if your phone dies in the middle of the sea, it hurts.
- Camera or phone at hand. Watching Barcelona fade away or Menorca appear is priceless.
Arriving in Menorca: what to do with the car?
Driving in Menorca is easy, but you need to use your head. The roads are good, but many are narrow and rural. Respect speed limits, be careful at roundabouts, and watch out for goats (yes, goats). Very important: many coves don't have official parking. If you see signs, respect them. Fines exist, and locals are fed up with wild tourism.
Is it worth taking the car to Menorca?
Absolutely yes. Especially if you plan to explore the island thoroughly, change accommodations, or visit remote spots. Plus, that feeling of freedom that comes from moving around without depending on schedules... is priceless.
Of course, it has a cost. If you do the math right, it can even be cheaper than renting a car in the middle of August.
Final tip: plan, but without rigidity
Taking the car by ferry to Menorca isn't complicated. It just requires some planning and a desire for adventure. Book in advance, compare companies, prepare your vehicle, and set out to sea. Once on the island... slow down, put your phone on airplane mode, and let yourself go.
Because Menorca isn't just visited. It's lived.