Has anyone had experience with taking a rental car on the ferries from Messina to Reggio Calabria? I've read a couple of comments that some companies don't allow it, but can't find anything specific. If you have done it, would appreciate hearing your experience (and the rental car company you used).
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7702 posts
It obviously varies by company, what extras you are willing to pay for, and what insurance you accept.
Your best bet is to narrow down to a couple of rental companies, and ask them.
Just guessing, but since that is more of a commuter type ferry as opposed to an overnight trip, then it may be no issue.
Posted by
Niagara, Ontario
1613 posts
Read the fine print or ask questions before you book. Some rental companies do not cover ferries, no matter the distance, or driving on islands if rented on the mainland.
Posted by
🏝️ Hobe Sound, FL⛱️
3209 posts
Check with your auto rental company. It might be dependent on the particular ferry route that you are considering. With AutoEurope I have taken the Messina to Reggio Calabria ferry and the Saint Theresa Gallura to Bonafacio round trip. I have a feeling that they might be more concerned with “long haul” ferries like Brindisi to Greece or Corsica to Marseille.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10377 posts
Yikes, I had a rental car in Germany last week and took it on a couple of car ferries over the Rhine. I never even considered if that could be a problem. I may need to do the same thing next year. I'll be sure to ask ahead of time then.
Posted by
Boston
1743 posts
AutoEurope is only the broker, and does not originate rules for the car rental companies. You must follow the contract of the actual car provider, and you should contact the rental company you intend to use.
Posted by
Boston
1743 posts
When you get to the car rental company's counter, you will sign a contract with that company. Period. AutoEurope may handle payment, but that car rental company will take an imprint of your credit card to enforce it's contract.
Posted by
OP
Ashburn VA
775 posts
Thanks everyone. I was hoping to get some suggestions on specific companies before I started looking. For me, sorting through the costs and contracts of a dozen rental car companies is so time-consuming and the worst part of planning the trip. We go in April. Time to get working on it.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7702 posts
For specific companies, AutoEurope is widely used, as was mentioned, they are a Broker, representing most of the major companies.
You can also go direct, Europcar I have used with good results, then take your pick of one of the big US brands (AVIS, Hertz, National) or one of their sister companies, based on your past experience. Sixt is another major brand, not sure why, but I always stayed away from them, or at least one of the other companies turned out better.
Do consider looking at a package that includes Insurance, ideally Zero Deductible. For Italy your CC insurance is likely void anyway.