Today, the AFerry team were honoured to attend the prestigious naming ceremony of GNV Virgo ferry in Palermo. Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) continues to maintain a strong and historic presence in Palermo, with local connections that span generations of sailors. In 2025, 30% of GNV’s overall traffic involves ports in Sicily.
The dazzling, high-profile naming ceremony featured a remarkable lineup of local talents, including Eleonora Abbagnato, the celebrated dancer and former étoile of the Paris Opera Ballet. Adding even more prestige, Olympic swimming champion Federica Pellegrini graced the event as its godmother.
GNV Virgo overview:
• Third new ferry built in China as part of GNV’s 2025-2030 fleet renewal programme (8 new ferries, 1.2bn € investment).
• First long-distance Italian LNG-powered ro-pax ferry, cutting CO₂ emissions by up to 50%.
• Equipped with shore power connection to eliminate emissions in port.
• Already carbon-neutral when using Bio-LNG fuel, meeting 2050 sustainability targets 25 years early!
• The 26th ferry in the fleet represents GNV’s vision for future travel, combining technology, sustainability and comfort.
GNV Virgo key specifications:
• Passengers: 1,785
• Vehicle capacity: 2,700 linear metres (~600 cars)
• Cabins: 453 (including pet cabins and suites)
• Decks: 12
• Speed: 46 km/h
• Gross tonnage: 52,300 GT
• Length / Width: 218 m / 29.6 m
• Facilities: self-service restaurant, café, observation lounge
• Route: Genoa – Palermo from December 2025 AFerry wishes GNV Virgo fair winds and following seas ! Book soon your GNV Virgo ferry crossing Genoa - Palermo on AFerry.
1. What is GNV Virgo and why is it important for ferry travel?
GNV Virgo is GNV’s newest ferry and the first long-distance Italian LNG-powered ro-pax vessel, designed to significantly reduce emissions while improving onboard comfort and efficiency.
2. When and where was the GNV Virgo naming ceremony held?
The naming ceremony took place in Palermo on 11 December 2025, celebrating GNV’s strong historic connection with Sicily.
3. Who were the key figures involved in the GNV Virgo naming ceremony?
The ceremony featured Eleonora Abbagnato, renowned dancer and former étoile of the Paris Opera Ballet, with Olympic swimming champion Federica Pellegrini acting as the ship’s godmother.
4. What routes are included in this GNV offer with AFerry?
Genoa to Palermo
Palermo to Genoa
5. When does GNV Virgo start operating on the Genoa–Palermo route?
GNV Virgo has already started service on the Genoa–Palermo route from early December 2025.
6. How does GNV Virgo support more sustainable ferry travel?
The ferry is LNG-powered, cutting CO₂ emissions by up to 50%, is equipped with shore power connections, and can already operate as carbon-neutral when using Bio-LNG fuel.
7. What onboard facilities can passengers expect on GNV Virgo?
Passengers can enjoy a self-service restaurant, café, observation lounge, modern cabins including pet cabins and suites, and spacious passenger areas.
8. How many passengers and vehicles can GNV Virgo carry?
GNV Virgo can carry up to 1,785 passengers and approximately 600 cars, with 2,700 linear metres of vehicle capacity.
9. How can I book a GNV Virgo crossing with AFerry?
You can book your Genoa–Palermo crossing on GNV Virgo quickly and easily on AFerry, with no hidden fees and all available ferry prices in one place.
Terms and Conditions
GNV Virgo has begun operating on the Genoa–Palermo route since December 2025.. All sailings are subject to availability.. Schedules and onboard facilities may vary Standard GNV fare terms apply to bookings, amendments and cancellations... GNV reserves the right to amend vessel deployment without prior notice...