Is the ferry on time?
'Orario' — o-RA-ryo. Stress on the second syllable; the final 'io' is a quick diphthong.
Ask at the information desk or check the departure board when you are waiting and want to confirm the ferry is leaving on schedule.
'In orario' means on time (on schedule). This pairs with 'in ritardo' (delayed) and 'in anticipo' (early) to cover all punctuality situations. 'Essere in orario' is the standard Italian expression for being on time — used for transport, appointments, and people.
Il traghetto ha ritardo?
Is the ferry delayed?
More direct question about delays specifically.
La partenza è confermata?
Is the departure confirmed?
Useful in bad weather when crossings might be cancelled.
C'è un ritardo per il maltempo?
Is there a delay because of bad weather?
Specifically asks about weather-related delays.
Ferry services in Italy can be cancelled or delayed by the Port Authority (Capitaneria di Porto) when sea conditions exceed safety limits. Wind strength (measured in Beaufort scale) is the main factor — crossings to small islands are often the first to be suspended.