Rinella Ferries

The port of Rinella plays a key role in the ferry network of Italy, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 9 ferry routes operated by 2 ferry companies, Rinella serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Rinella, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Lipari - Rinella, Panarea - Rinella, Reggio Calabria - Rinella connecting Rinella with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Liberty Lines, Siremar run regular services from Rinella, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Rinella offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Rinella is accessible year-round via ferry connections from mainland Sicily and neighboring Aeolian Islands. Most travelers first reach Sicily (Milazzo port) by road or rail, then continue their journey by ferry or hydrofoil to Rinella. The ferry crossing from Milazzo typically takes about 2 hours, while connections from other Aeolian Islands like Lipari are shorter, usually under an hour. If arriving at Salina's other port town of Santa Marina, local buses run regularly between the island's villages, or taxis are readily available for the scenic 20-minute drive across the island. Limited parking is available near the port area for those bringing vehicles to the island.

Tucked away on the eastern coast of Salina Island, Rinella offers a tranquil escape from the busier Aeolian Island destinations. This picturesque fishing village showcases authentic Sicilian coastal life with its black volcanic beach, colorful fishing boats, and laid-back atmosphere. As a ferry port, Rinella provides a more intimate gateway to the natural wonders of Salina and the surrounding archipelago, allowing travelers to immediately immerse themselves in the unhurried rhythm of island life.

Rinella enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. The prime visiting period runs from May through October, when warm temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for swimming and exploring. July and August bring the warmest weather and liveliest atmosphere, though these months also see the highest visitor numbers. For a more tranquil experience with comfortable temperatures and lower prices, consider visiting in May, June, or September. Ferry connections to Rinella are more frequent during summer months, while winter schedules are reduced, with some services dependent on weather conditions.

Rinella serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Aeolian archipelago's volcanic wonders. From its small harbor, ferries connect to Lipari (30 minutes), the largest island with its historic citadel and archaeological museum. Vulcano island, just 45 minutes away, offers therapeutic mud baths and the chance to hike an active volcano crater. The glamorous island of Panarea can be reached in about an hour, with its exclusive atmosphere and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. For the more adventurous, the journey to Stromboli (90 minutes) rewards with the opportunity to witness one of Europe's most consistently active volcanoes, especially dramatic during evening eruptions.

Rinella offers authentic experiences centered around natural beauty and local culture. Relax on the distinctive black sand beach, where the volcanic shoreline creates a striking contrast with the azure Mediterranean waters. Hike the network of trails that connect Rinella to other parts of Salina, including paths that lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the entire archipelago. Sample the island's renowned Malvasia wine at local vineyards, where the sweet dessert wine has been produced for centuries. Don't miss trying the local specialty of pasta with capers, as Salina produces some of Italy's most prized capers. The village center, though small, contains charming family-run restaurants serving freshly-caught seafood with tables overlooking the harbor.

Rinella sits on the slopes of an extinct volcano, with the village's homes built into the natural amphitheater created by the ancient crater. Despite its small size, the village featured prominently in the classic Italian film 'Il Postino' (The Postman), with several scenes shot along its waterfront. Salina Island was named for its salt lakes ('salina' means salt pan), which were historically used for salt production until the industry declined in the 19th century. Remarkably, Rinella remains one of the few Aeolian ports sheltered enough to provide safe harbor during the occasional Mediterranean storms, a fact that has made it strategically important throughout maritime history.