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Writer's pictureThe Bearded Blogger

GNV Blu - Family, fun & friendly

Updated: 56 minutes ago

Mooring right in the heart of the action where one can literally disembark the ferry and walk into town and head for the tourist sights, why would you want to endure the rig-moral of flying and endure lengthy airport transfers?


GNV Ferries berths across the road from the restaurants, shops and bars of Naples Italy and Palermo Sicily enabling you to spend more of your time actually on holiday plus, as the ship offers a wide selection of facilities your holiday doesn't stop whilst you travel.


For this journey A2B via Sea® travelled aboard GNV Blu, a family friendly, bright & vibrant ship where your holiday ashore continues as you cruise to your next destination.


Although arguably lacking any good looks externally with her 'shoe box' appearance of angular sides, her interior is of the highest of standards with a vast array of facilities seemingly designed with the family in mind.


GNV Blu arriving at Naples, Italy
GNV Blu in Naples, Italy

A2B via Sea® journey starts in the Italian city of Naples, a sprawling city of two halves.


Map of Naples, Italy
Map of Naples, Italy

The southern end is more industrial and the location of the wet and dry dock yards; the neighbouring areas of the city are less touristy and more residential with only localised restaurants and hotels and beautiful architecture of the old buildings but does benefit from having numerous street markets in the maze of narrow cobbled streets just waiting to be explored.


ferries in Naples dock yard
Naples dockyard and neighbouring residential area
Naples street market
Street market in Naples old town
monument and architecture in Naples, Italy
Monument in Naples old town
colourful residential buildings in Naples, Italy
Colourful residential buildings
Naples narrow cobbled streets
Narrow streets to explore

The northern end however is more cosmopolitan with a vast array of pavement restaurants, bars and gift shops plus, many hotels cascading back from the ferry and cruise terminals.


This area of the city is far more 'hilly' so if you have walking difficulties you may wish to take advantage of the public transport on offer.


Naples castle adjacent to marina and park
Naples castle
Giardini Pubblici park adjacent to Naples marina
Public park by marina
Giardini Pubblici Naples waterfront park
Waterfront park
Alfresco dining in Naples, Italy
Alfresco dining
street art of woman washing clothes in Naples
Street art
Naples cathedral
Naples cathedral

The northern end of Naples also offers a vibrant nightlife so, if you can spend a few days here to enjoy all it has to offer - I did and had a great time!


Naples nightlife
Naples nightlife

An extremely busy road divides the ferry terminals from the city - keep a tight hold of children and those with walking difficulties and only use designated crossing points which (should) stop traffic - but is often ignored!


A shuttle bus operates between Naples Airport, city railway station and the GNV ferry terminal. The bus costs around 5 Euros with payment by both cash and card permitted.


Naples Alibus airport, city, ferry bus transfer
Airport - city - ferry bus stop
Alibus airport transfer at Naples ferry terminal
Shuttle busses at ferry terminal

For those of you on a road trip, the port car park can be found opposite the GNV ferry terminal.


APCOA carpark at GNV Naples ferry terminal
APCOA parking at GNV Ferry terminal

Let's get aboard GNV Blu and head to Palermo, Sicily


The southbound overnight voyage aboard GNV Blu takes around 14.5hrs departing at 2000hrs on the day of my sailing with a scheduled arrival time of 1030hrs the next morning - great times allowing a full day ashore in Naples and an ideal mid-morning arrival in Sicily.


The GNV terminal is located right next to the cruise terminal in Naples.


GNV, Grimaldi and Moby ferry terminals in Naples Italy
GNV Ferry Terminal
Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas in Naples, Italy
Dwarfed by Oasis of the Seas cruise ship

The GNV ferry terminal consists of a small area of check-in desks but no lounge to wait in. It's not possible to make a ferry booking in advance within the terminal - it must be done online or through an agent however, making my online booking on my modest mobile phone through the GNV website was very easy and only took a few minutes with confirmation being received instantly.


GNV Naples ferry terminal
GNV Ferry Terminal

Numerous trucker style café's and bars can be found a short walk away within the port, many of which welcome backpackers like myself as it's a novelty for the staff who are keen to hear your stories.


truckers café in Naples port, Italy
Truckers café and bar next to GNV ferry

Be warned, the heat during mid-summer is enhanced owing to the vast amount of concrete and the sun's reflection off the sea so, seek some shelter.


backpacker in Naples, Italy
Instagram: thebearded_blogger

Naples ferry port is a large sprawling complex with numerous seemingly abandoned buildings, vast expanses of open quayside and a continuous flow of juggernauts and tourist vehicles heading towards one of the ferry berths with random solo backpackers and family groups milling around.


ferry routes from Naples port
Ferry routes from Naples
Naples ferry terminal
Naples ferry terminal
backpacker in Italy with grey beard, piercings and hairy chest
Instagram: thebearded_blogger

Let's get aboard


GNV Blu is, at the time of writing, 38 years old and maybe better known as the former KONINGIN BEATRIX which operated across the North Sea between Hoek van Holland and Harwich before being transferred to the Irish Sea as the mainstay of the Fishguard to Rosslare route.


In 2005 she was massively rebuilt under the name Stena Baltica before being transferred to the warmer climate of the Mediterranean and Aegean under the name SNAV Adriatico; her heritage is still evident aboard.


Having checked-in at the terminal by showing my online confirmation and passport, foot passengers congregate around the corner on the pavement.


GNV ferry foot passengers in Naples
Foot passengers

Once vehicle check-in is well underway foot passengers are called forward to embark single file through a gate leading into a small porta cabin where a security officer checks your ID and boarding pass which were issued to you at the neighbouring terminal.


cars boarding ferry in Naples Italy
vehicle lanes

Very polite security personnel chat to passengers whilst ID's are checked - even calling passengers by their first name. The process takes less than a minute then one walks towards the ships bow where its heritage can clearly be seen beneath the layers of white paint.


GNV Blu in Naples, Italy
GNV Blu
SNAV Adriatico, GNV Blu, Koningin Beatrix ferry
Previous names clearly visible
Sealink Koningin Beatrix ferry
Koningin Beatrix
SNAV Adriatico ferry in Naples
SNAV Adriatico

A relatively lengthy walk follows as foot passengers walk towards the ships' stern along the quayside where boarding cards are scanned by a member of ship's crew.


vehicles and foot passengers boarding ferry in Naples Italy
Vehicles and foot passengers embarking

Passing the ships' super structure, glancing up you can still clearly see the former cabin windows of Decks 5 & 6, sealed since the overhaul of 2005, which now conceal vehicle decks.


GNV Blu cabins
Former cabin windows still visible

Top tip, if the weather is poor ensure you have an umbrella as you will be outside for quite some time before actually boarding.


Eventually, foot passengers embark via the stern vehicle ramp.


GNV ferry in Naples, Italy
GNV Blu in Naples
backpackers boarding ferry in Italy
Foot passengers boarding via the vehicle deck

Once onboard foot passengers walk along the ships lower vehicle deck and ascend in an elevator to the passenger decks.


Whilst transiting the vehicle deck eagle eyed passengers may notice old signage which remains when the ship was owned by SNAV.


SNAV Adriatico ferry sign
Old SNAV signage from 2013

GNV Blu is easy to navigate with cabins forward and public amenities astern.


Clear signage & information boards are positioned in prime areas.


GNV Blu deck plan
GNV Blu deck plan
GNV Blu directional sign
Onboard directional sign
GNV Blu colourful art and staircase
Embarkation staircase
colourful hall on GNV Blu ferry
Brightly decorated full width foyer's separate the cabins from the public facilities allowing passengers a peaceful night's sleep.
purple carpet on ferry
Impressive hall
impressive staircase on ferry
Colourful interior

Being a relatively lengthy voyage the first thing you may want to do is find your accommodation, whether it's a suite with double bed, lounge and ensuite facilities or a comfortable budget friendly reclining seat.


Although the deck plans will help you locate it, the friendly personnel within the ships' reception can give you further assistance.


GNV ferry reception
Reception

GNV Blu is decorated to a high standard which continues into the cabin corridors - this area was once the former disco, bar and casino at the stern of Deck 6 behind the reception desk when she operated as Koningin Beatrix.


stylish corridor with cabin doors
Deck 6 cabin corridor

These photographs were taken after disembarkation had commenced in Palermo as I couldn't gain entry prior to them being occupied but, they give a good impression of the space you can enjoy if occupying a cabin.


suite aboard GNV ferry
Suite
GNV ferry suite
suite - having been occupied
four berth outside cabin on GNV ferry
Four berth outside cabin - having been occupied

Numerous budget friendly reclining seat lounges can be found around the ship if you wish to partake in 'Deck Class', like me.


Some lounges offer more privacy being tucked away offering a more peaceful environment.


sleeping lounge on GNV ferry
Sleeping lounge

Whilst others are more open plan adjacent to the main thoroughfare.


reclining seat lounge on GNV Blu ferry
Sleeping lounge
deck class on GNV ferry
Reclining seat lounge

The largest lounge is located at the stern of Deck 6 and offers plenty of space, a huge bank of luggage racks and muted lighting which is particularly handy as there are no curtains on the windows to keep the natural light out.


For those ferry enthusiasts amongst you this area was formally the nightclub, casino and bar when this ship was known as Koningin Beatrix.


quiet sleeping lounge on GNV Blu ferry
Sleeping lounge - Deck 6
luggage storage on GNV ferry
Ample luggage storage

Top tip, a shower room is located in close proximity to this lounge, but is not shown on any deck plan. There is no charge to gain entry - just don't forget to bring a towel and soap.


complimentary shower on GNV ferry for deck class passengers
Public shower in gents WC

For those of you travelling with your four legged fury friend a dedicated pet friendly exterior deck with kennels is available.


pet friendly travel on GNV Ferries
Access to pet kennels on Deck 6
dog kennels on ferry
Dog kennels

Time for a bite to eat


Aboard GNV Blu there are three main dining rooms, conveniently located on a single deck, ranging from a pizzeria to a formal a la carte restaurant - everyone is catered for.


The later is periodically open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.


Lunch opening times
Dinner opening times

The restaurant lacks any direct natural light owing to its position within the ship hidden behind full height oak framed walls with inlaid decorative metallic panels and frosted glass windows.


GNV Blu dining rooms
Entrance to restaurant and self service
Entrance to GNV Blu dining rooms
Entrance to dining rooms

However, its interior is very bright and airy with chalk white fixtures and fittings and muted splashes of colour from the royal blue patterned carpet and beige upholstery creating a very relaxed and intimate atmosphere.


A la carte restaurant aboard GNV ferry
A la carte restaurant

The adjacent self service option again is open periodically during the voyage.


GNV Blu informal buffet self service restaurant
Self service buffet

Positioned at the stern of Deck 7, it benefits from having windows on three sides allowing natural light to flood in and with the colour pallet of royal blue and sandy tones creates a relaxed beach vibe.


beach vibe décor in cafeteria
Dedicated areas for wheelchairs
beach vibe cafeteria on ferry with natural light
Copious amounts of natural light

Hard flooring creates a thoroughfare through the dining room from its entrance to the servery counter whilst localised carpeting effectively zones the seating


informal dining on GNV ferry
Informal dining
localised carpeting with hard flooring thoroughfare

A wide array of hot dishes and cold snacks are available which although may not be presented too beautifully on your plate will certainly fill you up as the portions are large.


pork and chips with side vegetables
Pork and chips with side vegetables
GNV Ferries self service cafeteria menu
Self service restaurant menu

For those of you travelling with children or looking for something a little more naughty to eat the centrally located pizzeria is the place to go.


pizzeria menu on GNV Blu ferry
Pizzeria menu

Offering a counter service, the servery is open plan capable of accommodating large crowds at peak times.


pizzeria aboard GNV Blu ferry
Pizzeria
informal dining on ferry
Spacious servery
spacious informal dining on Italian ferry
Spacious surroundings

The seating area is vast, brightly decorated and divided from the main thoroughfare by a glazed wall to enhance the spaciousness.


Those of you with an eagle eye will note the resemblance to the décor found aboard Stena Line ferries - perhaps the interior has little changed from when this ship was operating with Stena Line as the Stena Baltica?


glass blocks and hard flooring thoroughfare
Open plan pizzeria
glass blocks and glazed balustrades
frosted glass blocks and glazed balustrades

Numerous seating types are available to suit all group sizes from American style 'diner booths', stools and free standing chairs positioned on localised [very] deep pile carpeting.


Patterned floor tiles effectively zones these areas from the queuing area for the servery.


American diner style booths on ferry
American diner style booths
vibrant colours in cafeteria
Vibrant interior
pizzeria aboard GNV ferry

Stena line décor on GNV ferry
Segregated area within Pizzeria
patterned floor tiles with American diner theme

Top tip, a bar can be found adjacent to the servery which is open all night - perfect for those of you who are early risers or, like me, are too excited to sleep as we're heading off to a new country.


24 hour bar on GNV Ferries
24 hour bar
Ice cream refrigerator

backpacker with grey beard and green mohawk. Instagram thebearded_blogger
Enjoying a coffee at 0330hrs

If travelling with young children they'll love the playroom with toys and games.


children's playroom on ferry
Children's playroom

Parents and guardians can relax in an adjacent chair safe in the knowledge their children are safe and enjoying themselves.


contemporary swivel seating

Banks of power sockets are located nearby to charge electrical devices whilst surfing the web and, of course, following my adventures on Instagram & reading my website blogs.


USB and European two pin power sockets
Bank of power sockets
USB and European two pin power sockets on Mediterranean ferry

GNV ferry Wi-Fi pricelist
Wi-Fi price list (summer 2024)

GNV Blu offers a truly massive shopping centre, far larger than I had expected,

dominating the entire central section of Deck 8.


You'll find a large selection of summer clothing, fragrances and souvenirs making perfect gifts for friends and family. Plus, if you are looking for something specific the friendly personnel will assist you.


clothing store on ferry
Clothing store
designer clothing on ferry

designer sun glasses at discounted prices
Designer sunglasses
summer clothing in duty free shop

souvenir shop on GNV ferry
Souvenir shop
duty and tax free shopping on ferry
Giant shop
clothing and accessories at duty paid prices on ferry
Clothing and accessories
duty and tax free fragrances on ferry
Fragrances


The main entertainment hubs are located on Decks 8 and 10.


Open from embarkation until around 2300hrs you'll find the main bar on Deck 8; a 'U' shaped facility with the bar at the furthest point with seating on the sides.


bar on GNV ferry
Main entertainment bar
entertainment bar on ferry

Urban style sofas and 'swivel' chairs are positioned on localised carpeting adjacent to the hard flooring thoroughfare allowing groups to sit together and make new friends with fellow passengers.


urban style seating on ferry
Comfortable seating
entertainment bar on GNV ferry from Livorno to Sicily
Stylish nightclub ambience

An excellent singer serenaded passengers from the corner positioned stage whilst passengers danced the night away on the adjacent dancefloor.


live entertainment on ferry
Dance floor and stage

Direct access to the bare metal stern exterior deck and smoking area plus exterior 'disco bar' on Deck 10 can be obtained from here.


GNV Blu entertainment bar on ferry from Italy to Sicily
Direct access to exterior deck
GNV Blu open deck with disco bar
Exterior deck with music bar above

The exterior 'disco bar' is positioned at the highest point of the ship and offers a truly memorable way of travelling with overhead disco lights beneath a canopy pounding to the beat of the music which was being blasted out through the speakers.


Some passengers sipped cocktails, beers and spirits whilst others danced the night away under a beautiful sunset bidding farewell to Naples.


GNV Blu exterior disco bar
Disco bar
colour changing disco lights
Colour changing disco lights
Naples sunset from ferry
Naples sunset
Moby ferry heading to Sicily from Naples under a sunset
Moby ferry heading to Sicily
dramatic sunset over Naples Italy

Don't forget, when the bars close the bar adjacent to the pizzeria is open throughout the night.


closed bar on ferry

GNV Blu Offers a large amount of exterior decks on differing levels and well worth exploring.


backpacker with hairy chest and grey beard
Instagram: thebearded_blogger
stern exterior decks on GNV Blu ferry
Stern exterior decks
GNV ferry in Naples Italy
Terraced exterior decks
travelling by ferry at night deck class

GNV ferry in Naples Italy
Typical exterior deck
ferry funnel and lifeboat at night
Travelling at night

After a very enjoyable southbound voyage the beautiful coastline of Sicily comes into view.


Sicily viewed from a ferry
Sicily
Arriving at Palermo Sicily by ferry
Palermo, Sicily
Palermo port
Port of Palermo

Foot passenger disembarkation can be rather slow as it's necessary for vehicles to disembark first therefore, top tip, to save uncomfortably standing around in the halls grab a cuppa before the facilities close and relax on the exterior deck until you are called down to the vehicle deck to disembark.


Foot passengers on Naples to Palermo ferry
Foot passengers waiting to disembark
Foot passengers disembarking ferry
Foot passengers disembarking via the vehicle deck

The great thing about travelling by ferry is the (GNV) ferry literally moors across the road from the town centre of Palermo and, if you fancy a stroll, just head east where you'll find the beautiful old town & fantastic marina with localised bars and restaurants plus a myriad of narrow streets filled with small boutique shops - why endure the

rig-moral of flying, land miles away then face a lengthy transfer? - Take the ferry!


Palermo ferry port
Palermo ferry port, Sicily. Instagram: thebearded_blogger

Palermo, click for larger view



Here is my journey vlog.

Why not grab a cuppa, curl up and virtually come aboard




Why not follow my travel adventures on Instagram



More blogs can be found on

A2B via Sea® comprehensive website



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