Board the ferry

A high speed ferry is a good way to get from Italy to Croatia. I took a short morning train ride from Rome to Ancona and caught the SNAV Croatia Jet. The ferry ride was only about 4.5 hours, and it is a pleasant way to travel. There are some slower, overnight ferries that take much longer, but are also much cheaper. I took the Croatia Jet to save time and I feel it was worth the slight premium in price.

There is not much to do on the ferry other than sit around and eat. The food is overpriced, but seats are comfortable. Since the ferry wasn't too crowded I just stretched out on a row of seats and took a nap.

One really important note is to make sure you arrive at the ferry terminal early. I got there only a few minutes before the ferry left because train from Rome to Ancona was late (what?!? trains in Italy running late?), and just barely made it on the ferry. I bought the tickets on the spot and also had to get cleared through some passport control booth before getting on the ferry. Fortunately I didn't have any luggage other than a duffel bag, so I didn't have to spend time checking that...

Upon arriving at the port in Split, you have to wait in another passport control line. After that, you are free to roam! Take a left and follow the ancient walls of Diocletian's palace to find your way to the heart of old town Split...