Italian Phrase
A che ora si imbarca?
Meaning
The sentence asks for the exact time at which someone (or a vehicle) will board. It is commonly used when you need to know the departure time of a boat, train, plane, or any transport that requires boarding.
When to use
Use this question at travel agencies, ticket counters, or when speaking with a fellow passenger to confirm the boarding schedule. It works for both formal and informal situations, though the reflexive form si makes it sound slightly more polite.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Acheorasiimbarca?
A che ora
A che ora = "at what time"; a preposition + interrogative phrase used to ask for a specific time.
si imbarca
Imbarcarsi = to board (a ship, plane, train). The reflexive pronoun si marks the third‑person singular present indicative.
Verb conjugation
Imbarca is the 3rd person singular present of imbarcarsi (lui/lei/Lei). It can also be used politely for "you" in formal contexts.
🗨In Conversation
A che ora si imbarca?
At what time does it board?
Si imbarca alle otto di mattina.
It boards at eight in the morning.
✕Common Mistakes
A che ora imbarca?
Missing the reflexive pronoun; the verb must be used reflexively (si imbarca).
A che ora si imbarco?
Wrong verb form; "imbarco" is first‑person singular (I board). Use "imbarca" for third‑person or formal you.
Che ora si imbarca?
The correct order is "A che ora"; dropping the preposition changes the meaning.
↔Alternatives
A che ora parte?
What time does it leave?
A che ora sale a bordo?
At what time do you board?
Quando è l'imbarco?
When is the boarding?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, transport operators usually announce the boarding time well before departure, and punctuality is expected. When asking a stranger, using the reflexive form si (as in this phrase) sounds courteous. In the south, you might also hear "A che ora sali a bordo?" which is less formal but equally understood.