A DFDS vessel cruising through the open sea

DFDS, with headquarters in Copenhagen, operates 19 vessels across Europe and the UK, connecting over 20 countries with ferry and logistics services. With 17,000 employees, it transports 5 million passengers annually and prioritizes sustainability through route optimization, vessel upgrades, and green transport initiatives. Easily book DFDS ferry tickets online now or through the Ferryscanner app.

Exterior side of a ferry cruising over a calm sea

BLACK FRIDAY DEAL

DFDS Black Friday Deal: 50% Off Amsterdam-Newcastle Mini Cruise

27 January 25

Explore Amsterdam and Newcastle with DFDS’s Black Friday deal—50% off cabins! Learn more about this exciting offer and book your journey now.

Splendida spiaggia con sabbia bianca e fine in Sardegna

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

Black Friday 2024: Unmissable Deals on Ferries

28 January 25

Check out all the Black Friday 2024 deals on ferries! Save on travel in 2025 with offers from these ferry companies.

Aerial view of the Dover harbor with many ferries

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

03 October 24

Ready to set sail? Discover the best ferries to France from the UK. Check here for all the details on routes, prices, and travel tips!

DFDS Fleet

DFDS runs 19 modern vessels, all maintained for safety and comfort. On board, you’ll find clean, well-equipped spaces and reliable service for easy travel across Europe.

DFDS logo

About DFDS

Founded in 1866 through the merger of four Danish steamship companies, DFDS (Det Forenede Dampskibs-Selskab) was created to support fast-growing trade across Europe during the industrial era. Early on, DFDS played a vital role in transporting coal and goods between the UK and Scandinavia, while opening new export routes for farmers across Europe. As trade expanded, so did DFDS—by the early 1900s, its fleet connected markets from the Black Sea to the US, helping fuel agricultural and industrial growth across the continent.

Throughout its history, DFDS has been a key player in European logistics and passenger transport. During the world wars, the company helped keep essential supplies moving. In peacetime, it pioneered innovations such as the ro-ro (roll-on roll-off) service in the 1960s, transforming how trucks and trailers moved across seas. The company also expanded into logistics in the 1970s, growing through key acquisitions like Dan Transport and Norfolkline, and evolving into a combined shipping and logistics group.

Today, DFDS connects over 20 countries across Europe, offering reliable ferry and freight services across the North Sea, the English Channel, and beyond. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, the company is investing in hybrid ferries, fuel-efficient operations, and digital technology to reduce its environmental impact. Backed by more than 150 years of maritime expertise, DFDS continues to provide vital transport links that serve both businesses and travelers across Europe.

A woman holding a smartphone displaying the ferry booking confirmation page from ferryscanner.com, symbolizing digital check-in and boarding for ferry travel
Free cancellations on most bookings

DFDS Check-In & Boarding

Arrival Time

Check-in times depend on your route. As a general rule, vehicle passengers should arrive at least 60 minutes before departure, and foot passengers should arrive 40 to 60 minutes early. During high season, it is best to allow up to 2 hours to pass through all port checks. Always check your booking for exact timings, as port procedures can vary.

eTicket

eTickets are not available. You’ll need to collect your physical ticket or boarding pass at the DFDS ticket booth using your booking confirmation code.

Web Check-In

Web check-in is not supported. All passengers must check in at the port before boarding.

Paper Ticket

Paper tickets are required and must be picked up at the terminal before you board.

Booking Confirmation

Bring your booking code with you to collect your boarding pass at the ticket desk. You’ll need it at check-in.

Vehicles on Board

All DFDS ferries take vehicles, including bikes, motorcycles, cars, campers, and trucks. Follow the crew’s instructions when boarding and make sure your vehicle is parked with the handbrake on and in gear. On certain routes such as Dover to Calais or Dunkirk, only passengers with a vehicle can travel, as foot passengers are not accepted.

Required Documents

All passengers must bring a valid ID or passport, your ticket, and any required travel documents. If you’re traveling with a vehicle or pet, remember to bring the necessary papers too. Security checks are carried out at all ports before boarding. For children traveling with a different surname, it’s recommended to carry a letter of authorisation and a birth certificate.

DFDS Onboard Amenities

Relax and enjoy the journey with comfortable VIP seats, cozy cabins, and onboard WiFi. Savor a meal at the restaurant or grab a quick bite from the snack bar. Shop duty-free, unwind in the wellness center, or catch a movie in the cinema.

Wi-Fi Access

Stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi throughout your trip.

VIP Seats

Relax with extra comfort and exclusive VIP seating.

Restaurant

Enjoy delicious meals with full-service onboard dining options.

Snack Bar

Quick snacks and drinks available at the snack bar.

Duty Free

Shop tax-free for exclusive products and souvenirs onboard.

Kids' Play Areas

Fun play areas designed for children to enjoy.

TV

Entertainment screens available in lounges or cabins.

Pool

Refresh with a swim in the onboard pool.

Cinema

Enjoy movies in the onboard cinema during your journey.

Wellness Center

Relax and unwind in the onboard wellness centre.

Cabins

Rest in private, comfortable cabins during your trip.

Pet Kennels

Safe, secure, and comfortable kennels for travelling pets.

Accessible Travel for All

DFDS offers accessible travel with wheelchair-friendly facilities, elevators, and escalators on board. PWD (People with Disabilities) cabins are available for a comfortable journey.

Wheelchair Access

Ramps and spaces for easy wheelchair access.

Elevators

Elevators provide easy access across all decks.

Escalators

Convenient escalators for fast access between decks.

Accessible Cabins

Comfortable, fully equipped cabins for reduced mobility passengers.

DFDS Discounts

Enjoy great savings with DFDS! Families can benefit from discounts for children aged 0-15, making it easier to plan your next trip.

Child Ticket

Children discount available for ages 0-15.

A foot passenger sitting on a suitcase, ready for the ferry trip

Passengers without a Vehicle

Traveling without a vehicle? DFDS welcomes foot passengers on most routes, offering easy boarding, comfortable seating, and great sea views. Enjoy tasty meals and a relaxed trip from start to finish. Just note that on certain routes, like Dover to Calais or Dunkirk, foot passengers aren’t accepted, you’ll need a vehicle to travel.

A traveler handing over car keys for an unaccompanied vehicle transfer before a ferry trip

Transfer of an unaccompanied vehicle with DFDS

An unaccompanied vehicle cannot be transferred with DFDS. If you need alternative options or further clarification, please contact our support team.

A small white dog on a ferry deck, enjoying the sea view while held by its owner

DFDS Pet Policy

Pets are welcome on many DFDS routes, with options to make the trip comfortable for both you and your pet. Policies vary depending on the route, so check details in advance. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Pet ticket: Required for all pets. Prices vary — £15 (18€) per pet on Dover–France, £20 (24€) on Newhaven–Dieppe (per way).
  • Where pets stay: Pets usually remain in your vehicle with food, water, bedding, and familiar items. On Newhaven–Dieppe, you can also book a dog-friendly kennel (£20 per dog, bring your own bedding).
  • Public areas: Only certified guide, hearing, or assistance dogs are allowed in onboard public spaces.
  • Special rule for cats: Cats are allowed but cannot stay in vehicles during the trip. All passengers must leave the vehicle before departure.
  • Documents: You’ll need a Pet ID or passport, Animal Health Certificate or valid EU Pet Passport, microchip (scanned at check-in), rabies vaccination, and for dogs entering the UK, tapeworm treatment (24–120 hours before arrival).
  • Check-in: Vehicle passengers check in at the booth where pet documents and microchips are checked. Foot passengers (Newhaven–Dieppe only) check in at the terminal and will be guided by the crew to the kennel area.
  • Tips: Bring food, water, bedding, and toys. Pets must be at least 16 weeks old and fit to travel as there are no onboard veterinary services. Crew may check on pets during the trip if needed.

DFDS follows the DEFRA Pet Travel Scheme and takes pet safety seriously, so you can travel with peace of mind.

A passenger using a smartphone, symbolizing a ferry loyalty program and travel rewards

Loyalty Program

DFDS currently doesn’t offer a loyalty program or member card. Think we got it wrong? Let us know! Contact our support team, and we’ll update any missing info faster than a ferry leaving the harbor.

A traveler holding the handle of a red suitcase, ready for a ferry trip

DFDS Luggage Allowance

DFDS allows generous luggage options, but the rules may vary depending on the route you’re sailing. In most cases, there’s no official weight limit, especially if you’re traveling with a vehicle—just be sure your luggage is packed securely inside the car. For foot passengers, luggage must be manageable without assistance and generally should not exceed 50 kg.

On some routes like Jersey, a 25 kg limit applies to both carry-on and checked luggage. Passengers may be asked to place certain bags in designated storage areas for safety reasons. It’s always a good idea to keep valuables with you in your hand luggage during the trip.

When booking with us, you’ll see the exact luggage rules for your selected route—no guesswork, no surprises at the port. Pack smart and travel with peace of mind!

Important: Passengers carrying hunting or sporting weapons or ammunition must declare this at the time of booking and follow strict conditions. A completed Notification of Carriage of Weapons/Ammunition form is required at least 24 hours before departure. Regulations vary by destination country, so be sure to check the rules in advance.

Guiding Principles

With over 150 years of maritime and logistics expertise, DFDS continues to play a key role in connecting Europe through reliable transport and logistics solutions. Originally founded to support trade during the Industrial Revolution, the company now operates across 20+ countries, combining deep industry knowledge with forward-thinking strategies for a changing world.

Today, DFDS is committed to delivering services that are safe, efficient, and increasingly sustainable. As the transport and logistics sector faces growing pressure to reduce emissions, DFDS has set ambitious climate goals—aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050 across all operations. This includes a 45% reduction in vessel emissions by 2030 (from a 2008 baseline) and a 75% reduction in land transport and warehousing emissions by 2030 (from a 2022 baseline).

To reach these goals, DFDS focuses on four key strategies: improving energy efficiency, investing in electrification, adopting alternative fuels, and supporting circular practices. Decarbonisation is a shared responsibility across the organisation, guided by a dedicated Group Decarbonisation unit and a cross-functional board to ensure targets are met in every business area.

Whether at sea or on land, DFDS is introducing new technologies—like hybrid vessels and electric trucks—to support the shift away from fossil fuels. The company also partners with institutions like Roskilde University to develop cutting-edge digital solutions for emissions reduction.

As part of the DEFRA Pet Travel Scheme and with continuous investment in greener operations, DFDS remains a trusted and future-focused choice for both freight and passenger transport. Through innovation, collaboration, and a long-standing passion for progress, DFDS is building a more sustainable transport network—one journey at a time.

Destinations Available with DFDS

Amsterdam

Amsterdam Mallorca

Calais

Calais Mainland France

Dunkirk

Dunkirk Mainland France

Dieppe

Dieppe Mainland France

Dover

Dover Mainland Spain

Hanko

Hanko Ionian Islands

Karlshamn

Karlshamn Tenerife

Kiel

Kiel Cyclades

Kapellskar

Kapellskar Spanish Territories

Newhaven

Newhaven Tuscany

Oslo

Oslo Gulf of Naples

Paldiski

Paldiski Tuscan Archipelago

Rosslare

Rosslare Cyclades

Sassnitz

Sassnitz Gulf of Policastro

Ticket Booths


Dieppe
DFDS Dieppe - Office & Ferry Terminal

7 Quai Gaston Lalitte, 76200 Dieppe, France
+33809541891
Newhaven
DFDS Newhaven - Ferry Terminal

Ferry Port, Railway Approach, Newhaven Bn9 0Df, Uk
+441235845138
Ijmuiden
DFDS Ijmuiden - Office & Ferry Terminal

Sluisplein 33, 1975 Ag Ijmuiden, The Netherlands
+31255546666
Calais
DFDS Ferry Terminal

447 Av. François Mareschal, 62100 Calais, France
DFDS Calais - Ferry Terminal & Office

Terminal Car Ferry Gare Maritime Est, 62100 Calais, France
+33232146850
Rosslare
DFDS Terminal Check-In

Rosslare Europort, Ballygillane Big, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Klaipeda
DFDS Klaipeda - Office & Ferry Terminal

Baltijos Pr. 40, 93239 Klaipėda, Lithuania
+37046323232
Oslo
DFDS Seaways

Akershusstranda 31, 0150 Oslo, Norway
Copenhagen
DFDS Terminal

Dampfærgevej 30, 2100 København, Denmark
Dunkirk
DFDS Dunkirk - Office & Ferry Terminal

Port 5670, Terminal Car Ferry, Rte De La Maison Blanche, 59279 Loon-Plage, France
+33809541891
Newcastle
DFDS Ferry - Port Of Tyne

International Passenger Terminal, Royal Quays, North Shields Ne29 6Ee, United Kingdom
+448715229977
Dover
DFDS Dover Departures Check-In

Dover Ct16 1Ja, United Kingdom
Kiel
Kiel Terminal

Ostuferhafen 15, 24149 Kiel - Germany
+49 431 20976 540

DFDS Travel Terms & Conditions