The Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has launched a public consultation to assess the future of maritime transport services between the mainland and the country’s major islands. The initiative comes as several public service contracts for ferry routes are set to expire between 2025 and 2026, requiring a reassessment of service needs.
Key Routes Under Review
In 2020, four ferry routes were returned to the free market after an evaluation by the Transport Regulation Authority (ART), removing public service obligations (PSO):
- Livorno-Cagliari (freight only)
- Ravenna-Brindisi-Catania (freight only)
- Naples-Palermo (passengers and freight, winter PSO only)
- Genoa-Olbia-Arbatax (passengers and freight)
Meanwhile, the Civitavecchia-Olbia service, which still operates under public service obligations, requires a renewal decision by April 2025. Several other PSO contracts for Sardinia and Sicily will also expire in 2026.
Assessing the Market’s Capability
The consultation aims to determine whether the free market can ensure reliable transport links between the mainland and islands or if government intervention is needed to maintain accessibility and affordability for passengers and freight. Special attention is being given to the transport of live animals and carcasses on the Livorno-Olbia route during the summer.
Industry and Public Input Sought
The Ministry is inviting consumer associations, transport operators, and logistics companies to share feedback on service needs, challenges, and potential improvements. Stakeholders can submit their input by 4 April 2025 via dg.tm@pec.mit.gov.it.
