Ystad – Swinoujscie

Ferries from Sweden to Poland

Key Facts

Crossing time
6h 55min – 7h 35min
Frequency
3x daily
Operator
Unity Line, POLSCA Baltic Ferries
Departures
00:30 – 23:50
Car transport
Yes

Route Overview

The ferry route connecting Ystad, Sweden, with Świnoujście, Poland, serves as a vital maritime link across the Baltic Sea. The crossing typically spans a duration of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes to 8 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the operator and specific vessel deployed. This route is serviced by two primary ferry operators, Polferries and Unity Line, ensuring consistent connectivity. Sailings are maintained throughout the week, often with multiple departures daily. During peak season, typically from June to August, the frequency of departures can increase, accommodating higher passenger and vehicle volumes, sometimes reaching up to 4 daily sailings. Conversely, during the off-peak season (November to March), sailings might be reduced to 2-3 departures per day. The total distance covered by this route is approximately 110 nautical miles (203 kilometers), facilitating direct passage between southern Sweden and northwestern Poland. Both freight and passenger traffic are heavily reliant on this connection, contributing significantly to regional logistics and tourism.

Operators & Schedule

The Ystad–Świnoujście route is operated under POLSCA Baltic Ferries, the unified brand that, since 30 March 2026, consolidates ticket sales for Polferries, Unity Line and EuroAfrica (per the operator's own We Are POLSCA page). On this crossing sailings are marketed under POLSCA with Polferries as the named brand, using Ro-Pax vessels such as Mazovia, Wawel and Polonia. There are typically 2–3 daily departures in each direction, with the earliest sailing from Ystad around 06:00 and the latest around 23:30. Crossing duration ranges between 6h 30min and 8h 15min depending on the vessel and sea conditions. Additional overnight sailings may be added in high season (June–August); in the low season (November–February) frequency can drop to two daily departures.

Onboard Services

Onboard services across both Polferries and Unity Line vessels on the Ystad-Swinoujscie route include a range of amenities. Cabin options vary from standard interior berths to exterior cabins with windows, providing private accommodation for 2-4 passengers. Restaurant facilities typically offer both self-service canteens and a la carte dining options, serving a variety of hot meals and beverages. Duty-free shops are available, allowing for purchase of confectionery, alcohol, and souvenirs, subject to legal limits. Pet transport is generally permitted in designated pet-friendly cabins or in owner's vehicles, with specific booking requirements and additional fees applicable. Vehicle transport on the car deck accommodates standard passenger cars, motorcycles, and commercial freight vehicles, including trucks and trailers up to 18 meters in length. Wi-Fi internet access is often available in public areas, typically for a fee, with varying connection speeds dependent on satellite availability.

Ystad

The Port of Ystad is situated on Sweden's southern coast, roughly 55 kilometers southeast of Malmö, at geographical coordinates 55°25'N 13°50'E. The ferry terminal is located within walking distance, approximately 1 kilometer, from Ystad’s city center and its primary railway station, offering direct rail connections to Malmö and Copenhagen. For vehicle boarding, designated marshalling lanes are clearly marked well in advance of the vessel's departure time, with check-in procedures typically commencing 90-120 minutes prior to sailing. Passengers traveling without vehicles are directed to a dedicated pedestrian entrance for check-in. Terminal facilities include ticketing counters, waiting areas with seating capacity for approximately 150 passengers, and public restrooms. Vehicle access to the port is facilitated by well-maintained arterial roads, specifically the E65 highway connecting directly to the port area. Parking is available within the port vicinity, with both short-term and long-term options for approximately 100 vehicles, subject to daily tariffs.

Swinoujscie

The Port of Swinoujscie is strategically located on the Baltic Sea coast of Poland, positioned at the mouth of the Swina River, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Szczecin, at geographical coordinates 53°55'N 14°15'E. The ferry terminal is approximately 3 kilometers from Swinoujscie city center, accessible via local bus routes with departures every 15-20 minutes during daytime hours. Vehicular traffic entering the port is directed via national road DK93, which connects directly to the A6 motorway system. Check-in for vehicle passengers typically commences 120 minutes before the scheduled departure, requiring presentation of valid booking references and identification. Pedestrian passengers may check in 60-90 minutes before departure at dedicated terminal counters. The terminal building houses basic amenities such as restrooms, a small cafe, and vending machines, with a seating capacity for around 200 individuals. Parking facilities for private vehicles are available adjacent to the terminal, accommodating approximately 120 cars, with hourly and daily rates applicable.

Operating Ferry Companies

  • Unity Line
  • POLSCA Baltic Ferries