Ferries Cherbourg

When planning your trip to Cherbourg, you can take advantage of fixed discounts to enjoy lower-cost ferry tickets. Typically, ferry companies operating routes to Cherbourg provide special fares for certain passenger categories, such as:

• Children (4-15 years old)
• Large groups of travelers

Note: Infants and toddlers up to 3 years old usually travel for free

There are currently 5 available ferry routes to Cherbourg:

Dublin - Cherbourg

The ferry connection from Dublin to Cherbourg is active year-round, usually with 6-7 crossings every week. The ferry trip usually takes 18 to 20 hr, while tickets start at €107 for a reserved seat and around €150 for a cabin.

Rosslare - Cherbourg

The Rosslare - Cherbourg route operates year-round with 1 weekly departure. The journey takes around 16h, while passenger tickets start at €119.

Portsmouth - Cherbourg

The Portsmouth - Cherbourg ferry route is available from July to December, usually with 1-2 crossings a week. The journey takes around 7 hr 45 min, with ticket prices starting at approximately €50 per passenger.

Poole - Cherbourg

There are several weekly ferry crossings throughout the year from the port of Poole to Cherbourg. The journey takes around 4 hr 45 min, with ticket prices starting at approximately €44 per passenger.

Alderney - Cherbourg

The Alderney - Cherbourg route typically operates from April to September, with 1-2 weekly crossings. The journey takes as little as 30 min, with ticket prices starting at approximately €77 per passenger.

Irish Ferries serves the route connecting Dublin (Ireland) with the French port of Cherbourg.

Brittany Ferries operates vessels on routes to Cherbourg from Rosslare (Ireland), Poole and Portsmouth (UK).

Stena Line serves some itineraries from Rosslare to Cherbourg.

Alderney Ferry Services operates on crossings from the English Channel island of Alderney to Cherbourg.

How much luggage can you take on the ferry to Cherbourg?

Luggage allowance on ferries to Cherbourg depends on the route and the ferry operator's policy:

• Brittany Ferries: there is no official limit to the luggage you can carry. However, for foot passengers, the company recommends limiting their luggage to a maximum of two pieces of luggage weighing 20 kg per crossing.
• Irish Ferries: you can bring as much luggage as you can carry at no additional cost. You are allowed to carry 1 small piece of hand luggage with you, while the rest must be checked in through the luggage handling facility. Each checked-in item must not exceed 22 kg.
• Stena Line: you can carry as many luggage items as you want, provided that you can bring them onboard on your own.
• Alderney Ferry Services: there is no limit on luggage, as long as you can carry it on and off the boat, you can bring it free of charge.

The duration of a ferry trip to Cherbourg depends on the point of departure, the ferry operator, and the type of vessel. More specifically:

• Dublin - Cherbourg: approximately 18 hr
• Rosslare - Cherbourg: approximately 16 hr
• Portsmouth - Cherbourg: approximately 7 hr 45 min
• Poole - Cherbourg: approximately 4 hr 45 min
• Alderney - Cherbourg: approximately 30 min

Which is the fastest route to Cherbourg?

The fastest route to Cherbourg depends from your point of departure. More specifically:

• If you are traveling from Ireland, the fastest route to Cherbourg is from Rosslare. The crossing takes approximately 16 hr.
• If you are traveling from the UK, the shortest crossing to Cherbourg is from Poole, taking approximately 4 hr 45 min.
• Overally, the fastest available route to Chertbourg is from Alderney in the English Channel, taking as little as 30 min.

What is the cheapest ferry route to Cherbourg?

The cheapest ferry route to Cherbourg from Ireland is the one departing from the port of Dublin, with passenger tickets starting at €103.

The most budget-friendly route to Cherbourg from the UK is the one departing from Poole, with passenger tickets starting at €44.

Keep in mind that the final ticket cost depends on vehicle selection, discounts, offers, and cabin type.

Which port of departure should I choose?

The best departure port depends on where you're starting your trip and how you plan to travel. With that in mind:

• Poole is the best choice if you want the fastest crossing from southern England and one of the lowest fares. It is ideal for travelers heading to Normandy by car or on foot.
• Portsmouth offers a convenient alternative with regular year-round sailings. Although the journey is longer, it's a good option for travelers coming from London, southeast England or other major transport hubs.
• Rosslare is ideal for travelers departing from southeastern Ireland, with both Brittany Ferries and Stena Line operating the route throughout the year.
• Dublin is a convenient departure point if you're traveling from eastern Ireland and don't mind a longer overnight crossing.
• Alderney is only suitable if you're already visiting the Channel Islands during the seasonal operating period.

What other factors should I consider?

When planning a trip and booking a ferry to Cherbourg, keep these factors in mind:

• Seasonality: while the routes from Ireland operate year-round, some crossings from the UK and the Alderney route have seasonal schedules or increased frequency during the summer. Booking early is recommended for peak travel periods.
• Travel time vs. price: shorter crossings are usually more convenient but can be more expensive during busy periods. Overnight ferries from Ireland take longer but may save on accommodation costs and offer cabins for a more comfortable journey.
• Departure times: some routes have only one sailing per day or a few departures per week, so check timetables carefully, especially if you're traveling with a vehicle or following a tight itinerary.
• Luggage and pets: luggage allowances and pet travel rules differ by ferry company. If you're bringing a pet or planning to travel with lots of baggage or a vehicle, review the operator's policies before booking.

Can I travel on the ferry to Cherbourg with a car?

Yes, most ferries to Cherbourg are equipped with car decks for transporting vehicles.

Always check the availability and keep in mind that car deck spots may be more limited during peak months. Also, make sure you bring along your driver’s licence, vehicle registration and insurance documents.

Important: vehicles are not allowed on the Alderney Ferry Services routes from Alderney to Cherbourg, except bikes and electric bikes.

How much does it cost to bring my car to Cherbourg?

Prices for vehicle transportation on ferries to Cherbourg depend on your chosen route:

• Dublin - Cherbourg: prices start at around €140 to transport a car and €129 for a motorbike.
• Rosslare - Cherbourg: prices start from €150 for a car, and €99 for a motorbike.
• Portsmouth - Cherbourg: prices normally start at about €154 for a car, and €115 for a motorbike.
• Poole - Cherbourg: prices normally start at about €85 for a car, and €52 for a motorbike.

Can I take my camper van on the ferry to Cherbourg?

Yes, you can take your camper van or motorhome on routes to Cherbourg. Here are indicative starting prices for each route:

• Dublin - Cherbourg: prices start at around €123 to transport a large van and €148 for a motorhome.
• Rosslare - Cherbourg: prices start from €189 for a large van and €299 for a motorhome.
• Portsmouth - Cherbourg: prices normally start at about €188 for a large van and €193 for a motorhome.
• Poole - Cherbourg: prices normally start at about €119 for a large van and €124 for a motorhome.

All ferries to Cherbourg feature modern amenities and services, such as:

• Comfy air-conditioned lounges and seating on outer decks to enjoy the sea view
• Restaurants, cafés and bars
• Family-friendly entertainment
• Duty-free shops and kiosks selling snacks, gifts and travel essentials
• Wi-Fi hotspot

Cabins & accommodation

Are there cabins on the ferries?

Ferries traveling to Cherbourg from Ireland or the UK have many types of cabins available, typically including:

• Standard inside cabins
• Outside cabins with a sea view
• Adapted cabins for travelers with disabilities
• Pet-friendly cabins

Note: due to the crossing’s short duration, there are no cabins available on the Alderney - Cherbourg route.

What type of seats can you book?

Travelers can choose between standard deck-lounge seating (included in the ticket) or numbered seats in dedicated lounges.

Can I travel first class?

Most ferries to Cherbourg do not offer traditional business-class seating. However, you can book a reserved seat in a dedicated, air-conditioned lounge on select routes.

Are the ferries accessible?

Yes, ferries to Cherbourg are equipped with accessibility features, featuring ramps and lifts between decks, as well as adapted cabins and amenities.

Boarding assistance is typically available upon request and with prior notification to the ferry company before your journey.

Important: accessibility features vary by vessel, so it is recommended to contact the ferry company at the time of booking for further details.

Can you take pets on the ferry to Cherbourg?

Pets are generally allowed on ferries to Cherbourg, provided you include them in your booking. Make sure you bring along your pet’s health and travel documents, as well as any supplies you may need for the trip.

Where can pets stay during the crossing?

Pet accommodation differs by vessel and operator.

Brittany Ferries offers onboard kennels and pet-friendly cabins on routes from Portsmouth and Poole.

Irish Ferries allows you to book either a kennel (on the W.B. Yeats) or a pet-friendly cabin with direct deck access (on the Isle of Inisheer) on the Dublin - Cherbourg route.

On Stena Line ferries from Rosslare, pets can either stay in onboard kennels or remain inside your vehicle during the crossing.

In designated areas, dogs must be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle if required. Smaller pets should remain in their carrier when outside their accommodation.

Note: guide and service dogs are permitted in passenger areas.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

Yes, most ferries to Cherbourg offer a Wi-Fi hotspot so you can stay connected during the trip.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Entertainment options depend on the route and operator:

• Entertainment areas that may offer live music, magic shows or onboard cinema
• Designated children’s play areas

What travel documents do I need to go by ferry to Cherbourg?

Since all ferry routes to Cherbourg connect France with the United Kingdom, Ireland or the Channel Island of Alderney, they are international crossings. Before traveling, make sure you have the required travel documents for your destination.

• A valid passport is required for travel between France and the UK, as well as for most travelers arriving from Ireland or the Channel Islands.
• Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa or other entry authorization. Always check the latest entry requirements before your trip.
• If you're traveling with a vehicle, bring your driver's license, vehicle registration documents, and proof of motor insurance. Some operators may also request a Green Card or other insurance documentation for international travel.
• If you're traveling with a pet, remember to carry your pet's passport or health certificate, vaccination records, and any other documents required by the operator’s pet policy.

How to book ferry tickets

You can easily book ferry tickets to Cherbourg on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks:

1. Select Cherbourg as your destination, along with your port of departure and travel dates.
2. Add passengers, pets, and vehicles.
3. Compare ferry operators, travel times, and ticket prices.
4. Complete your booking securely online.

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive your ferry tickets by email. Ferryhopper lets you manage your booking, check for updates, and access customer support all in one place.

Check-in and boarding procedures

We always recommend arriving at the port well in advance of departure. More specifically:

• Foot passengers: arrive at least 1 hour before departure.
• Passengers travelling with a vehicle: arrive 2 hours before departure.
• Have your passport, ID and booking confirmation ready for inspection at check-in.
• Follow the instructions provided by terminal staff for boarding.

Can I board with an electronic ticket?

Ferry operators serving routes to Cherbourg do not currently support electronic tickets. Therefore, you will have to collect your paper tickets before boarding your ferry to Cherbourg.

We recommend that you always review your confirmation email carefully for operator-specific instructions and arrive at the port on time, with your booking reference and identification documents readily available.

Cherbourg, on the northern tip of Normandy’s Cotentin Peninsula, is a charming port city forever immortalized on the big screen in the iconic 1964 film The Umbrellas of Cherbourg. Best known for its impressive artificial harbor and rich naval history, the city also captivates visitors with its elegant architecture, vibrant cultural attractions, authentic Norman character, and romantic atmosphere. Beyond the waterfront, the Cotentin Peninsula invites travelers to discover dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages and unspoiled landscapes, making Cherbourg an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of northern France.

For more info on how to make the most of your Normandy escape, check out our Cherbourg travel guide.

Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when travelling by ferry to Cherbourg:

• If you’re traveling overnight, consider booking a cabin for a more comfortable journey, especially on longer routes.
• Sea conditions can vary, particularly in the English Channel and Bay of Biscay. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing medication or other remedies before boarding.
• If you’re traveling with a pet, make sure to reserve pet accommodation in advance and bring all required documents.

Best time to book

The best time to book your ferry to Cherbourg depends on the route, season and your travel plans.

• Summer is the busiest period, especially for routes from the UK, so it’s recommended to book your tickets early to secure your preferred sailing times and fares.
• If you’re traveling with a vehicle, a pet, or during peak holiday periods, booking in advance is a good idea, as vehicle spaces and pet-friendly accommodation can sell out quickly.
• During the shoulder season and winter months, ferry availability is usually better, and you may find more flexible options. However, you must keep in mind that certain routes only operate seasonally and may not be available during late autumn, winter and spring.

Cherbourg (Cherbourg-en-Cotentin) is the second largest artificial harbor in the world, located at the northern end of the Cotentin Peninsula. The port serves cross-Channel passenger and cargo flows from and to the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

The ferry terminal is around 2.5 km from the city centre and the local railway station.

For more information, head to our dedicated guide on the port of Cherbourg.

Are there traveller amenities at the port of Cherbourg?

The port of Cherbourg has many modern passenger facilities, including waiting areas, cafés and transport connections. Outside the terminal, you’ll find taxis, car-hire services and buses connecting the port to the town centre, the train station and other destinations in Normandy.

How to get to the port of Cherbourg

Cherbourg port is located in very close proximity to the town centre. It is just a 10-min ride by car and about a 25-min walk from top attractions such as the Basilica of the Holy Trinity (Basilique Sainte-Trinité) and Thomas Henry Museum.

Alternatively, a taxi from the town centre will take you to the ferry terminal in about 10 min. The train station of Cherbourg is located in the town centre and is just about a 10-min ride from the ferry terminal or around 40 min on foot.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Cherbourg, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.