The 220 meter long, 7031 dwt ro-ro ferry Sharden allided with a pier while departing from Cititavecchia, Italy bound for Sardinia.   The ferry suffered damage to its hull with a 30 meter long gash just above the waterline.  The allision was caused by strong winds.    No reports of injuries to the 262 passengers or 53 crew on board.   The Sharden returned to port with the assistance of two tugs.   All passengers and vehicles were safely unloaded.   The Italian Coast Guard had started an investigation into the cause of the accident.    No reports of pollution being released.