Ferries to France from the UK – Plan Your Journey and Book Now

Ferries to France from the UK – Plan Your Journey and Book Now

2 October 2024 • Valeria Olivato

Travelling from the UK to France has never been easier, and ferries provide the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and convenience. Skip the hassle of airports, pack your car with everything you need, and enjoy a smooth journey across the English Channel.

Ferries to France from the UK offer the freedom to travel on your schedule, making your trip stress-free. By booking your ferry tickets in advance, you can lock in the best prices and take advantage of a variety of options. With multiple ferry routes to France at competitive prices, there’s no better time to start planning your journey.

Ready to find the best deals? Keep reading to explore routes, compare prices, and start your adventure today on a ferry to France!

Overview of the article:

Why Choose to Travel By Ferry to France?

Large ferry docked at the port of Calais, ready to board vehicles and passengers

Ferry departing from the port of Calais, France. Source: Freepik

Travelling to France by ferry isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s about making the journey part of your adventure. With a ferry, you have the freedom to relax, stretch out, and enjoy the scenic views of the Channel, all while avoiding the stress and long lines of airports.

Ferries offer flexible schedules, competitive pricing, and the added convenience of bringing your own car, making it easier to explore France once you arrive. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a spontaneous short break, ferries provide a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Make your next trip even better and choose a ferry to France to sail into your adventure!

How Long Does It Take to Get to France By Ferry?

The time it takes to travel by ferry to France from the UK varies depending on the route, but it’s often faster than you might think! The popular Dover to Calais crossing takes just 90 minutes, making it one of the quickest and most efficient ways to reach France. For longer routes, such as Newhaven to Dieppe, the journey lasts around 4 hours, offering a relaxing trip with plenty of time to enjoy the sea views. No matter which option you choose, a ferry to France gives you the freedom to travel comfortably.

Ready to set sail? Book your tickets now and make the most of your next adventure!

Find Cheap Ferry Tickets to France

Aerial view of the dover harbor with many ferries

Ferries docked at the Port of Dover, the gateway to France from the UK. Source: Freepik

Finding a cheap ferry to France is easier than you might think, especially with Ferryscanner. With a little planning, you can secure affordable ferry tickets by taking advantage of seasonal offers and early-bird discounts. The cheapest ferry to France is often available during off-peak times, so booking in advance helps lock in the best prices. Keep an eye out for special promotions, as many ferry operators offer cheap ferry crossings to France throughout the year. Use Ferryscanner to compare routes and prices quickly, ensuring you find the cheapest ferry tickets to France for your journey. Start planning early with Ferryscanner, and you’ll be sure to save!

How Much is the Ferry From the UK to France?

Ferry prices for France, specifically from the UK, can range widely depending on the season, route, and ticket type. On the popular UK to France routes, like Dover to Calais, prices typically start around £30/€35 for foot passengers, while travelling with a car can range from £70/€80 to £100/€115 or more, especially during peak season.

Off-peak travel offers more affordable options, with tickets often significantly lower. To find the best ferry trips to France, it’s smart to compare different routes and book in advance. With Ferryscanner, you can easily check ferry prices for France, ensuring you get the best deal for your journey.

Popular Ferry Routes from the UK to France

a ferry leaving the Port of Dover, heading out into the English Channel

A ferry departs from the Port of Dover, set against the famous White Cliffs. Source: Freepik

When it comes to ferry routes to France, there are several popular options, each catering to different destinations and travel needs. Here’s an overview of the top UK to France ferry routes:

From Dover

  • Dover to Calais: The most popular route with a quick 90-minute crossing, perfect for exploring northern France or continuing your journey further into Europe.
  • Dover to Dunkirk: A slightly longer crossing of around 2 hours, ideal for travellers seeking a quieter arrival point in northern France.

From Portsmouth

  • Portsmouth to Caen: Land to Caen, a historical city near the most beautiful cliffs of the region.
  • Portsmouth to Saint-Malo: Discover the Celtic region of Brittany after an overnight trip across the English Channel.
  • Portsmouth to Cherbourg: Get to the French coasts under 6 hours of trip and land in one of Normandy’s most important ports.
  • Portsmouth to Le Havre: A 6-hour crossing at a very good price to connect with the historical region of Normandy.

From Poole

  • Poole to Cherbourg: Under 5 hours, and for an economical price, discover the harbour city of Cherbourg and its stunning surroundings.

From Plymouth

  • Plymouth to Saint-Malo: From the South of Great Britain, land to the historical and beautiful region of Britanny through one of its most iconic cities.
  • Plymouth to Roscoff: A quick 5-hour journey will take you to Roscoff, perfect location to start a trip around the French Celtic region of Britanny.

From Jersey

  • Jersey to Saint-Malo: Fancy a day trip to the French mainland? In less than 2 hour, get to know Saint Malo, iconic fortified city in Britanny.

From Newhaven

  • Newhaven to Dieppe: A 4-hour crossing, ideal for travellers heading to the Normandy region.

By train from Folkestone

  • Folkestone to Calais: A 35-minute crossing via LeShuttle (formerly Eurotunnel), offering the fastest way to reach France with your vehicle.

With these ferry routes from the UK to France, you can choose the one that best suits your destination and enjoy a smooth, scenic trip. Book now and experience the convenience of these ferry routes to France from the UK!

Overnight Ferries to France From the UK

Taking overnight ferries to France from the UK is a smart and comfortable way to travel longer routes. Not only do you save time, but you also cut down on accommodation costs by sleeping onboard. With a range of cabin options available, from standard to deluxe, overnight ferries provide a restful night’s sleep so you can wake up refreshed and ready to explore France. Enjoy amenities like private bathrooms, cozy beds, and even dining options during your journey. When booking overnight crossings, it’s best to reserve early for the best cabin availability and pricing. Ready to travel in comfort? Book your overnight ferry to France from the UK and make the most of your trip!

Bringing Your Car on The Ferry to France

Cars lined up on the deck of a ferry, ready for transport across a body of water

Cars ready for transport aboard a ferry from the UK to France under clear skies. Source: Freepik

Travelling on a car ferry to France offers unmatched convenience and freedom. With a ferry to France with your car, you can pack everything you need, skip the hassle of rentals, and explore the beautiful French countryside at your own pace. The process of boarding a car ferry to France from the UK is simple: just arrive at the port, drive on board, and relax during the crossing. Most UK to France car ferries offer spacious decks and easy access to your vehicle throughout the journey. While there are some vehicle height and weight restrictions, these are typically noted during the booking process. Car ferries to France from the UK provide a seamless, stress-free way to travel – book your tickets now and enjoy the freedom of having your own vehicle for your French adventure!

Travel With Pets

Are you wondering, “Can I take my dog to France on the ferry?” Absolutely! Many ferries to France are dog-friendly, ensuring your furry companion travels comfortably and safely. With dedicated pet-friendly cabins, pet lounges, and onboard kennels, dog-friendly ferries to France offer a stress-free experience for both you and your pet. Before you sail, be sure to check the requirements for pet travel, such as bringing up-to-date vaccination records and microchip details. For extra comfort, consider packing familiar items like your dog’s bed or favourite toy. Travelling on a ferry to France with your dog ensures they stay by your side, ready to explore the stunning landscapes with you. Book your dog-friendly ferry to France today and make it a trip to remember!

Top Ferry Companies Sailing from England to France

Large DFDS Seaways ferry sailing across open waters

DFDS Seaways, a popular operator for ferries from the UK to France, sailing on open water. Source: Pixabay

When it comes to ferries from the UK to France, several trusted companies offer convenient and reliable services, ensuring a smooth journey across the Channel. Whether you’re looking for a quick crossing or a leisurely overnight voyage, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs. Here are some of the top ferry companies serving UK to France routes:

  • Brittany Ferries: The most important operator for this journey, bringing together France and the UK from almost every English channel ports available!
  • P&O Ferries: Offering frequent crossings from Dover to Calais with a range of amenities for comfort.
  • DFDS: Known for its popular routes between Dover and Calais, as well as Newhaven to Dieppe.
  • Irish Ferries: Providing reliable and affordable crossings on the Dover to Calais route.
  • LeShuttle: The fastest way to cross the Channel, taking just 35 minutes from Folkestone to Calais. Unlike on the ferries, LeShuttle allows you to stay in your vehicle during the crossing.

With these reputable operators, you can trust that your journey on UK to France ferries will be both comfortable and efficient. Ready to set sail? Book your ferries from the UK to France today!

Ferry Deals for France

Searching for the best ferry deals to France? Whether you’re planning a quick escape or an extended vacation, there are incredible offers on ferries to France that can help you save big. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can enjoy a cost-effective and convenient journey across the Channel. In the next section, we’ll reveal the top offers available, giving you access to the most affordable options for ferries from the UK to France. Get ready to secure the best deal and start your adventure!

Current ferry deals from Dover to Calais

Looking for a quick escape across the Channel? Many ferry companies, such as P&O Ferries and DFDS, launch discounts and seasonal offers all year long! To make sure you don’t miss any and to get the chance to buy discounted tickets, take a look at our Discounts blog posts. We’ll tell you all about the latest deals — don’t miss out on these incredible ferry offers to France!

Do I Need a Passport to Go to France from the UK?

As the United Kingdom is no longer part of the European Union, travel requirements for British citizens visiting EU countries have changed. So, if you’re a UK resident planning a holiday in France, you’ll need to make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay. You’ll also need to have it stamped at the French border when you arrive and leave.

The good news is that British visitors can still travel to France without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, it’s always wise to check the latest entry rules before you travel.

Compare Ferry Tickets to France

When planning your trip, it’s essential to compare ferry tickets to France to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Using tools like Ferryscanner makes it easy to compare ferry prices to France across different operators and routes, all in one place. By comparing options, you can find the perfect balance of price, route, and amenities that suit your travel needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick crossing or a more leisurely trip, comparing tickets ensures you’re not overpaying and that you secure the best available fares. Ready to find the best deal? Start now and compare ferry to France options with Ferryscanner!

Book Your Ferry to France via Ferryscanner

Ready to start your journey? With Ferryscanner, booking your ferry to France is fast and simple. In just a few clicks, you can secure your tickets for the best UK to France ferries, whether you’re planning a holiday or a short break. Enjoy a seamless booking experience, exclusive offers, and the convenience of planning your trip all in one place. Don’t wait – book your ferry to France today using Ferryscanner or by downloading our mobile app and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

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