Dover to France ferry

When travelling on the Dover to France ferry, you can take advantage of the regular discounts available to specific traveller categories. While these discounts differ from one company to another, children under 16 are typically entitled to 50% off the normal ticket price, while infants and toddlers up to 3 years old travel for free.

Dover - Calais ferries

Dover - Dunkirk ferries

Note: the number of daily crossings usually increases during the high season.

The conventional ferries serving the Dover - France ferry routes are equipped with modern amenities and services, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey across the Channel.

Onboard, you will typically find:

• Comfy air-conditioned lounges and seating on outer decks to enjoy the sea view
• Restaurants and bars, which serve a range of drinks, snacks and meals (including vegetarian and child-friendly options)
• Play areas and a treasure hunt app to keep children entertained
• Shops selling duty-free goods, including cosmetics, perfume, sweets and alcohol
• Car decks for the transportation of vehicles
• Free Wi-Fi hotspot, to stay connected during the trip

Tip: for more details, you can take a look at our guide on Dover-Calais ferry amenities and services.

Cabins and accommodation

On ferries from Dover to France, there are standard deck/lounge seats, while on ferries operated by Irish Ferries, you also have the option of business lounge seats.

Are there cabins on the ferry?

Due to the short length of the journey, there are no cabins available on ferries from Dover to France.

Can I book business-class seats?

Yes, Irish Ferries has a business class lounge on its ferries, such as the Oscar Wilde. These Club Class lounges are in an exclusive area on board and feature comfortable seating and sea views, Wi-Fi and complimentary drinks and snacks.

The additional charge for business class seats is around €30.

Luggage

Each ferry company has its own luggage policy:

• On DFDS ferries, each passenger can carry up to 50 kg of luggage. The luggage must be taken by yourself from and on board. Note that there are no luggage carts.
• When travelling with Irish Ferries, you may bring as many pieces of luggage as you can fit into your vehicle.

Amenities for people with disabilities

Accessibility is a key focus on ferries between Dover and France. On most ferries, you will find

• Wheelchair-accessible toilets and wide corridors
• Lift access between decks
• Assistance for boarding and disembarking when requested in advance
• Guide dog and assistance dog support (with appropriate documentation)

While pets such as dogs generally travel in secure vehicle areas during the short crossing, service and guide dogs are allowed on board.

Important: contact your ferry company at least 48 hr before departure to arrange specialised help and ensure a smooth crossing.

Traveling with pets

Pets are allowed on most ferries to France from Dover, provided you include them in your reservation when booking your tickets. Pet tickets normally cost around €20.

Where do pets stay?

Typically, your pet can stay in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing. Make sure you have pet supplies for the duration of trip, and (ideally) leave a window slightly open.

When traveling with Irish Ferries, you can book a spot in the Pet Den, a pet-friendly lounge with access to an outdoor walkway. Smaller pets must be kept in their carrier, while larger pets must be kept on a lead and wear a muzzle.

What pet documents do I need?

You must bring your pet’s Animal Health Certificate or EU Pet Passport, including microchip identification, as well as a valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 21 days before your trip).

Here are some useful tips for your ferry trip from Dover to France:

• The port of Dover can get busy, so plan your arrival well in advance. Check-in closes 2 hr before departure if you are traveling by coach and 60 min before departure for all other vehicles.
• The Channel can get a bit rough, so if you are sensitive to the waves, consider taking seasickness tablets before the trip. As always, you can discuss your options with your pharmacist or doctor.
• When planning your trip, keep in mind that there is a 1-hr time difference between the UK and France.
• Remember that you will be driving on the right-hand side of the road once you arrive in France!
• Don't forget to also book your return tickets to the UK in advance on the Calais - Dover or Dunkirk - Dover ferry for a hassle-free trip.
• For all travel options, check out our Map of ferries, where you can visualize your ferry trip from England to France and beyond, in just a few clicks!

Where to take the ferry from Dover to France

Ferries to France normally set sail from the Eastern Docks in Dover. The port in the seaside town is in Kent, about 112 km southeast of London.

The Passenger Services Building (PSB), on the west side of the port, is well equipped, with waiting areas, cafes and restaurants, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, currency exchange services, and a games room.

How to get to the port of Dover

You can easily reach the port of Dover by car and public transport:

• From London or the M25, take the M20 motorway towards Folkestone, then continue on the A20 into Dover. Once there, simply follow the signs for Eastern Docks / Dover Ferry Terminal.
• There are regular train services from London, with Dover Priory being the nearest station to the ferry terminals. You can reach the port from the train station in about 25 min on foot and 5-10 min by taxi.
• Multiple buses from the town centre of Dover also serve the port area.

Where does the ferry arrive in France?

Ferries from Dover arrive in Calais or Dunkirk, on the northern coast of France.

Calais

The port of Calais is just a short drive or shuttle ride from the city centre. By car, the nearby A16 and A26 motorways provide easy access to Paris, Lille, Belgium, the Netherlands, and beyond. Fuel stations, rest areas, and supermarkets are located close to the port for last-minute supplies.

Foot passengers can take a shuttle to Calais Ville train station, with TER regional trains connecting to Lille, Dunkirk, and Boulogne-sur-Mer. Local buses also run to Calais city centre, where you’ll find hotels, car rentals, and other travel services.

Dunkirk

The port of Dunkirk is at the port of Loon-Plage, around 10-15 km from Dunkirk’s historic centre (about 10-20 min by car). The terminal sits next to the A16 motorway, offering direct road links to Dunkirk, as well as Belgium and the Netherlands via the E40 and E17.

Taxis and local buses connect the port with Dunkirk city centre and train station in about 15-20 min, making onward travel around northern France easy. The port also offers essential amenities, including check-in booths, restrooms, a café, waiting areas with Wi-Fi, and dedicated lanes for vehicles and freight.