Ferries Jersey

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, located between southern England and the French coast. Combining British charm with French influences, the island is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, picturesque harbours and rich history. Visitors can explore medieval castles, scenic coastal trails, vibrant markets and excellent seafood restaurants, while enjoying a mild climate throughout much of the year. Thanks to regular ferry connections from the UK, France and the neighbouring Channel Island of Guernsey, Jersey is an ideal destination for both relaxing seaside holidays and island-hopping adventures.

Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when travelling by ferry to Jersey:

• Check passport, visa and entry requirements before travelling, particularly if you're arriving from France or if you are not travelling under the Common Travel Area.
• If you are island-hopping from Guernsey to Jersey, make sure to book your return tickets on the Jersey - Guernsey route to secure availability.
• For longer daytime sailings on the Portsmouth - Jersey route, booking a cabin or upgrading your seating can make your journey more comfortable.
• Sea conditions in the Channel Islands can occasionally be choppy. If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking seasickness tablets before your trip.
• If you’re travelling from the UK, keep in mind that Jersey pounds and coins are not legal tender in the UK, so it's worth spending them or exchanging them before you board for your return.
• Keep in mind that there is a 1-hr time difference between France and the Channel Islands when travelling to Jersey from Saint-Malo.
• If you are travelling with a car or caravan, consider booking your return tickets well in advance, as car deck spaces are limited.

Best time to book

If you're travelling to Jersey during the summer months, school holidays or on bank holiday weekends, it's best to book your ferry 1 to 2 months in advance. The most popular routes, particularly from Saint-Malo, Poole and Portsmouth, can sell out quickly, especially if you're travelling with a vehicle.

For travel during spring, autumn or winter, you'll usually find better availability and can often book just a few weeks before departure. Keep an eye out for seasonal offers, as operators occasionally release promotional fares outside the peak season.

When planning your ferry trip to Jersey, you can take advantage of the regular discounts available to specific passenger categories. Typically, infants and toddlers up to 3 years old travel for free, while children under 15 are entitled to 50% off regular ticket prices.

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

The documents you'll need depend on where you're travelling from, as Jersey is a self-governing British Crown Dependency and some ferry routes are international.

• From the UK (Poole or Portsmouth) or Guernsey: you should carry a valid photographic ID. A passport is recommended, although other accepted photo identification may be sufficient on Common Travel Area routes, subject to the ferry operator's requirements.
• From France (Saint-Malo): you will normally need a valid passport. Depending on your nationality, you may also require a visa or other entry authorisation. Always check the latest entry requirements before travelling.
• Travelling with a vehicle: bring your driving licence, vehicle registration documents and valid motor insurance. If you're driving a hired or leased vehicle, you may also need written authorisation from the rental or leasing company.

How to book ferry tickets

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

1. Select Jersey 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

Check-in procedures are similar across Jersey ferry routes, although they may vary slightly depending on the operator and departure port.

• Foot passengers: arrive at the terminal around 1 hour before departure.
• Passengers travelling with a vehicle: arrive around 2 hours before departure.
• Have your travel documents and booking confirmation ready for inspection.

Keep in mind that as international routes involve border controls, you should allow extra time during busy travel periods.

Can I board with an electronic ticket?

Electronic tickets may be supported on Jersey routes, depending on the ferry operator. However, some crossings or ports may still require passengers to collect a boarding pass at the terminal.

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.

On both high-speed catamarans and conventional ferries to Jersey, a range of essential on-board amenities is available for a comfortable crossing. As services vary depending on the operator, vessel, and route, facilities may differ, but on board you will typically find:

• Comfortable air-conditioned lounges and indoor seating areas, as well as access to outdoor decks on selected vessels
• Cafés and bar areas serving snacks, light meals, and hot and cold drinks
• Duty-free shopping available on certain ferries, offering perfumes, cosmetics, and travel essentials
• Basic facilities such as washrooms, baby changing areas, and dedicated luggage storage spaces
• Wi-Fi hotspot (on selected routes)

Cabins & accommodation

Are there cabins on the ferries?

Cabin availability depends on the route and vessel.

For example, ferries travelling from Saint-Malo, Guernsey, and Poole to Jersey do not have cabins, as these specific journeys are relatively short. On ferries from Saint-Malo and Poole to Jersey, you can choose between standard deck-lounge seating and a numbered seat. On Guernsey - Jersey ferries, seating is generally not allocated, allowing passengers to move freely and choose where to sit during the journey.

You can book a cabin on the ferries travelling from Portsmouth to Jersey, for greater comfort and privacy. When planning your trip, you can choose from:

• Standard inside cabins
• Outside cabins with a sea view
• Pet-friendly cabins

Cabins are available for up to 5 passengers and feature bunk beds and an en suite bathroom.

Prices for cabins start at around £92 (€104).

What type of seats can you book?

On all ferries to Jersey, standard deck-lounge seating is included in the ticket price. On select routes, you may also book a numbered seat or opt for a business-class seat at the premium lounges.

Can I travel first class?

Some operators also offer premium seating options for added comfort, depending on the route:

• Guernsey - Jersey: Islands Unlimited features a Premium Class lounge located on the upper deck, with a quieter environment, panoramic views, and complimentary drinks and light snacks.
• Poole - Jersey: DFDS catamarans serving this route generally have premium lounges with business-class seating options. These reclining seats are typically more spacious, with extra legroom, and include complimentary drinks and snacks.
• Jersey from Portsmouth: on most ferries, you can book a seat in a premium lounge. These reclining seats typically have more space and are in a quiet lounge. Prices for upgrading standard deck/lounge seats to reclining seats start from around £12 (€15).

Are the ferries accessible?

Ferries to Jersey are generally accessible to travellers with reduced mobility, featuring facilities such as step-free access, ramps and lifts between decks, accessible toilets, and assistance from the crew available on board.

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 Jersey?

Pets are generally allowed on all ferries to Jersey, but pet policies vary depending on the ferry operator:

• Islands Unlimited: a limited number of pets are allowed on board if included in the booking. Pets must travel in a carrier and remain in a designated area during the journey.
• DFDS: pets are allowed, provided you include them in your booking. If you are bringing your car or caravan, your pet can stay in your vehicle for free. Otherwise, you can book a pet-friendly cabin (for up to 2 pets) or a seat in the pet-friendly lounge. Alternatively, smaller pets must be in a carrier and placed within a dedicated area onboard, while larger pets must be kept on a lead when moving through the ship.
• Manche Îles Express: pets are not allowed, except for official guide dogs

Important: recognised assistance animals are generally permitted, but rules may vary. It is recommended to check with the ferry company before travelling and ensure you have all necessary documents and supplies for your pet.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

Yes, there is a Wi-Fi hotspot available on select routes to Jersey.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Due to the short duration of the crossings, ferries to Jersey from Guernsey, Saint-Malo, and Poole do not usually feature large entertainment facilities, focusing instead on comfortable seating and scenic views during the crossing.

However, on routes from Portsmouth, you can expect to find entertainment for children, including interactive play areas.

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

Yes, most ferries travelling to Jersey have car decks for vehicle transportation. Make sure you bring along your driving licence, as well as vehicle registration and insurance documents.

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

The cost of vehicle transportation by ferry to Jersey depends on the route, vessel, and type of vehicle. More specifically:

• On the Saint-Malo - Jersey route, prices start at around £52 (€60) to transport a car, £34 (€39) for a motorbike, and about £60 (€68) for a caravan.
• Prices on the Poole to Jersey route start at around £100 (€115) to transport a car, £35 (€40) for a motorbike, and about £115 (€135) for a caravan.
• On the Portsmouth - Jersey route, prices start from around £78 (€87) to transport a car, £25 (€29) for a motorbike, and roughly £90 (€100) for a caravan.
• On the Guernsey - Jersey route, vehicle transport is only available on DFDS ferries. Islands Unlimited and Manche Îles Express offer foot-passenger services only. Here are the indicative prices for crossings with DFDS:
• £104 (€121) for a car, including a deck-lounge passenger ticket
• £62 (€72) for a motorbike, including a deck-lounge passenger ticket
• £120 (€140) for a motorhome, including a deck-lounge passenger ticket

  Important: DFDS crossings with vehicle transport are very limited, operating only on selected dates in July and August. If you plan to travel with a vehicle, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance to secure a spot.

Can I take my camper van or motorhome on the ferry to Jersey?

Yes, you can take your camper van, motorhome or caravan on most ferries to Jersey, but make sure to always check the availability per route and itinerary and keep in mind that car deck spots may be more limited during peak months.

Which is the fastest route to Jersey?

The fastest way to reach Jersey from the mainland is from Saint-Malo (France), with crossings taking as little as 2 hr.

If you're already island-hopping in the Channel Islands, the Guernsey - Jersey ferry is even shorter, taking around 1 hr 35 min.

This route operates throughout the year and is an excellent choice if you're travelling from northern France or combining your trip with a visit to Brittany.

What is the cheapest ferry route to Jersey?

From the mainland, the cheapest ferry route to Jersey is generally from Portsmouth (UK), with discounted tickets starting from £9 (€11). Although it is the most affordable option, the journey is considerably longer, with crossings taking from 7 to 12 hr.

Keep in mind that fares vary depending on the season, demand, and the type of ferry you choose.

Which port of departure should I choose?

Your departure port will largely depend on where you're travelling from and what matters most to you:

• Saint-Malo is the best option if speed is your priority. It offers the shortest mainland crossing, operates year-round, and is ideal for travellers exploring Brittany before heading to Jersey.
• Portsmouth is a great choice if you're departing from southern England and looking for the lowest fares, although the crossing is much longer.
• Poole strikes a balance between speed and convenience from the UK. The crossing takes around 4 hr, significantly faster than Portsmouth, but the route usually operates only between April and November, and tickets tend to be more expensive.
• Guernsey is the obvious choice if you're already visiting the Channel Islands and want to continue your island-hopping itinerary.

What other factors should I consider?

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

• Seasonality: while ferries from Saint-Malo and Portsmouth run throughout the year, some routes, such as those from Poole and Guernsey, operate only seasonally or offer more frequent departures during the summer months.
• Travel time vs. price: high-speed catamarans to Jersey generally cost more, while conventional ferries are slower but often provide lower fares and better options for transporting vehicles.
• Departure times: some routes have only one crossing per day or a limited number of weekly departures, so it's worth choosing a route that best fits your travel schedule and booking early during the peak season.
• Luggage and pets: luggage allowances and pet travel policies vary by ferry operator. If you're travelling with extra baggage, a bicycle, a car, or a pet, check the company’s terms before booking to avoid surprises at the port.

The ferry trip to Jersey can take from 1 hr 35 min to 12.5 hr, depending on the route and vessel. Here are indicative travel times for each route:

• Poole - Jersey: approximately 4.5 hr
• Portsmouth - Jersey: from 7 hr 45 min to 12.5 hr
• Saint-Malo - Jersey: approximately 2 hr
• Guernsey - Jersey: approximately 1 hr 35 min

DFDS serves the ferry connections from France (Saint-Malo) and the UK (Portsmouth and Poole) to Jersey with high-speed catamarans or conventional ferries (depending on the route).

The Guernsey - Jersey route is mainly served by high-speed ferries operated by Islands Unlimited and Condor Ferries, offering frequent crossings from March to October, as well as a limited number of departures by DFDS and Manche Îles Express on selected dates.

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

Luggage allowances on ferries to Jersey vary depending on the operator and the chosen route. Here’s a quick overview:

• DFDS: unlimited luggage allowed on board
• Islands Unlimited: up to 23 kg per passenger
• Manche Îles Express: up to 20 kg per passenger
• Condor Ferries: one piece of luggage weighing up to 25 kg

In all cases, passengers are expected to carry their own luggage on board, while larger items can usually be stored in dedicated luggage areas.

UK - Jersey

There are currently 2 routes to travel by ferry to Jersey from the UK:

Poole - Jersey

You can travel by ferry from Poole to Jersey seasonally, typically from April to the end of September, with 2 to 5 weekly crossings. The journey takes 4.5 hr and ferry tickets start from about £50 (€58).

Portsmouth - Jersey

The ferry connection from Portsmouth to Jersey is active year-round, usually with 6 weekly crossings, which take from 7 hr 45 min to 12.5 hr. Ferry ticket prices start at £50 (€57) for foot passengers and £92 (€104) for a cabin.

France - Jersey

Saint-Malo - Jersey

You can travel by ferry from Saint-Malo to Jersey year-round, with a few weekly crossings. The journey takes about 2 hr and ferry tickets start from about £40 (€46).

Other Channel Islands - Jersey

Guernsey - Jersey

Ferries run year-round between the Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey off the Normandy coast of France. The Guernsey - Jersey route is usually available with up to 10 weekly crossings. The ferry trip usually lasts 1 hr 35 min, and ticket prices start at around £32 (€38).

Jersey is served by St Helier Harbour, located on the island's south coast, just a short walk from the town centre.

Are there traveller amenities at the port of Jersey?

The Jersey ferry terminal offers useful passenger facilities, including:

• Ticket offices and information desks
• Waiting areas
• Cafés and snack bars
• Toilets
• Taxi rank
• Nearby bus connections to other parts of the island

How to get to the Jersey port

• On foot: if you are staying in St Helier, the port is just a short walk away.
• By bus: local bus services stop at Liberation Station, the island’s main transport hub, about a 10-min walk from the terminal.
• By car: follow signs for St Helier Harbour or Elizabeth Terminal. Parking is available nearby, though spaces may be limited in peak season.
• By taxi: taxis are widely available across the island, with short journeys to the port from most areas.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Jersey, 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.