Located in Cala Santa Maria, on the north eastern side of the island, the port of Ustica is equipped both for the landing of ferries and hydrofoils and for nautical pleasure.
From Palermo * territorial continuity is ensured all year round, while from the nearest Aeolian Islands sea connections are made only during the summer.
As regards private boats, various services are guaranteed: mooring / unmooring assistance; waste collection; food supply; gas station; slide; mobile crane (for small boats) etcetera .
* Travel times range from 2h 30min by ferry to 1h 30min by hydrofoil.
The port of Ustica can be reached by bus, taxi and by bike and scooter (useful information for those who are already on the island).
Bus: there is a public minibus service that covers the entire territory.
Car: the rental service with driver (NCC) is active on the island.
Scooter and bike: there are various bike & scooter rental activities. Furthermore, in synergy with the Metropolitan City of Palermo, a bike sharing service was activated. More info here (operation to be verified).
In Contrada Petriera there is a public parking area. Several accommodation facilities have internal parking.
The ticket office is located in Via Capitano Vincenzo di Bartolo at about 500mt. from the port.
Near the port of Ustica there are various activities: fuel stations; diving center, scooter rental; bar; restaurants; groceries etcetera.
A concentrate of beauty. A wild territory (just 8 sq km), of clear volcanic nature, which, however, is counterbalanced by the great hospitality of its inhabitants.
Ustica is especially famous among diving enthusiasts. According to many, all around the island there are the most beautiful diving spots in the whole Mediterranean. However, even without cylinders, simply wearing a mask, fins and snorkel (snorkeling), you will be amazed by the richness of the underwater flora and fauna.
Not surprisingly, the coast and seabed * of Ustica are monitored and managed by a dedicated one Marine Protected Area, which has the task of preserving its integrity by regulating all activities practicable at sea. Including fishing which, together with tourism and agriculture , gives a living to the residents (just over 1000 inhabitants).
* Numerous caves: Blue Cave, Green Cave, boats Cave, Cave of the Shrimps etcetera.
Special mention for the small historic center, with the facades of the houses decorated with characteristic murals. Also worth seeing is the Archaeological Museum housed in the coastal tower of Santa Maria. Inside, numerous prehistoric and Roman remains.