Dover - Calais
Ferries to France
Dover - Calais
Ferries to France
The Dover to Calais ferry route is provided by 3 ferry companies. The ferry crossing from Dover to Calais is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes on most ferries servicing this route. Ferries between Dover to Calais cost around $34 and $398, depending on ticket details. Prices exclude any service fees. Ferry timetables change seasonally, use our Deal Finder to get live pricing and availability for ferries from Dover to Calais.
Dover to Calais ferry prices typically range from $34 to $398. The average ferry price from Dover to Calais is around $221. The cheapest fares usually start from $34. The average foot passenger ticket costs $90. The average price when traveling with a car is $221.
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated June 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Dover to Calais ferry cost approximately $33.63. However, prices can reduce to as little as $45.73 in the winter.
Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our Special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. Booking early is typically the most reliable way to secure lower fares and better availability.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.
Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.
Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address must be presented at check-in.
There are around 156 weekly sailings from Dover to Calais.
Irish Ferries provide 9 sailings daily, 64 sailings weekly. P&O Ferries provide 11 sailings daily, 75 sailings weekly. DFDS Seaways provide 11 sailings daily, 76 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.
The first ferry from Dover to Calais usually departs at around 00:15, with the last sailing leaving Dover Port at approximately 23:55.
Yes, day trips between Dover and Calais are very popular thanks to the short crossing time and frequent sailings. Traveling with a vehicle is a great way to explore the area at your own pace. For inspiration on the best things to do in Calais, please visit our blog.
The fastest ferry from Dover to Calais is with P&O Ferries in 1 hour 25 minutes.
The fastest ferries from Dover to Calais usually cost around $220.60.
Yes, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries & DFDS Seaways allow cars on ferries from Dover to Calais. Use our Deal Finder to view live prices for car ferries on this route.
Here are our top tips for traveling with a car:
Top tip: on this route, you’ll pay the same price for your car, regardless of how many passengers you bring, making it great value for group travel.
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Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Dover to Calais ferry.
For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.
Yes, bicycles are permitted on ferries from Dover to Calais with Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries & DFDS Seaways. While most operators allow bicycles onboard, we recommend checking individual policies in advance to avoid any complications upon arrival at the port.
Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Dover to Calais with P&O Ferries.
First class is available on ferries from Dover to Calais with Irish Ferries.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Dover and Calais depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check if an overnight option is available, alongside current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.
Pets are allowed on ferries from Dover to Calais with Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries & DFDS Seaways. The average price for traveling with a pet is $266.
Pricing is based on searches from the last 30 days, excluding service fees, and was last updated June 26.
When traveling with your pet on a ferry, you'll usually need:
For more details, read our guide to travelling with pets by ferry.
Where your pet stays on the ferry depends on the operator. Some ferries require pets to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing, while others provide dedicated areas such as pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels or lounges.
Be sure to check the rules before you travel, as some operators have restrictions on the type or number of pets you can bring. If your route offers cabins, kennels or lounges, we also recommend booking in advance, as these spots tend to fill up fast.
Our Deal Finder shows you all the available options, so you can choose the ferry crossing that best suits you and your pet's travel needs.
P&O Ferries:
DFDS Seaways:
Irish Ferries:
If you're traveling with a guide dog or assistance dog, we recommend informing the ferry operator or our customer service team at the time of booking.
Please ensure you carry all required documentation, as you may be asked to present this during check-in or while onboard.
Even where standard pet travel is not permitted, different rules may apply to guide and assistance dogs. You can confirm the specific requirements for your sailing by reaching out to our customer service team.
The Dover to Calais ferry is one of the most traveled sea crossings in the world, linking the south coast of England to Northern France across the English Channel in one of the busiest shipping lanes on the planet. Although only a short crossing, there is a range of facilities available onboard to keep passengers occupied throughout the voyage.
The standard option across all operators on this route. Spacious enclosed passenger lounges with fixed or cushioned seating provide a comfortable base for the crossing. Given the short journey time, the majority of travelers find standard seating entirely adequate, and the large multi-deck vessels operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS offer considerably more space and comfort than smaller hydrofoils.
All ferries on the Dover to Calais crossing have open-air deck areas providing great views of the White Cliffs of Dover. The open deck is a popular choice in calm, sunny conditions, though the English Channel can be windy even in summer and the exposed upper decks can be cold and uncomfortable for extended periods.
Both P&O Ferries and DFDS offer premium lounges with enhanced seating, a quieter environment, complimentary refreshments, and in some cases dedicated check-in lanes and priority boarding. A worthwhile upgrade for business travelers, families wanting a calmer space away from the busiest passenger areas, or anyone making a long drive on either side of the crossing who wants to arrive as rested as possible.
Full restaurant and self-service café facilities are a feature of the large car ferries operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS on this route. Hot meals, full English breakfasts, fish and chips, burgers, pasta, and a wide range of snacks and drinks are available throughout the crossing.
Onboard bars serving alcohol, soft drinks, and hot beverages are available on all vessels, along with duty-free retail shops selling perfume, alcohol, confectionery, and tobacco at competitive prices. The duty-free shopping element remains a draw for many passengers making the crossing, particularly those traveling between the UK and France with allowances to take advantage of. Shops typically open shortly after departure and close before arrival.
Open upper decks are available on all major ferries and offer expansive views across the Channel throughout the crossing. On clear days both the French and English coastlines are visible simultaneously from the upper deck, a reminder of just how narrow this stretch of water is despite its outsized importance as a shipping and travel corridor.
All services on the Dover to Calais route accommodate vehicles, with vehicles loaded onto the lower vehicle decks and passengers directed to the upper passenger decks for the duration of the crossing. Passengers must leave their vehicles once loading is complete and are not permitted to return until the vessel has docked and vehicle deck access is reopened.
The larger vessels operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS include children's play areas, family lounges, and onboard entertainment options, making it one of the more family-friendly ferry routes in Europe.
The majority of travelers keep their luggage in their cars for the duration of the crossing, bringing only a bag or personal items to the passenger decks. Foot passengers have access to designated luggage storage areas in the passenger saloons. Traveling as a foot passenger on this route is less common than on many Mediterranean crossings but is straightforward, with good onward rail and coach connections from Dover Priory station for those continuing their journey without a vehicle.
You can get a direct ferry from Dover to Calais. Although flights are available from London Gatwick or Heathrow Airport, getting a ferry is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel between Dover and Calais.
Depending on the operator you choose, ferries offer much more flexibility, allowing you to bring your vehicle and pet along too. Plus, you can often take more luggage than you usually can on a plane. Traveling by ferry is also a relaxing and scenic experience, so you can arrive in Calais feeling refreshed and ready to explore!
How early you need to arrive at Dover ferry port depends on the ferry company you are traveling with and how you are traveling, so it's always best to check your booking confirmation in advance.
Dover is easy to navigate with clear signs directing you where to go. However, arriving early is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey, especially during the peak summer months.
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend arriving 45–60 minutes before departure if you're traveling as a foot passenger. If you're bringing a car or campervan, aim to arrive 60–90 minutes in advance to allow time for check-in and vehicle procedures.
Yes, parking is available at Dover ferry port, so you don't need to worry about leaving your car behind. Most ports offer both short and long-term parking options close to the terminal, although it's a good idea to check availability in advance.
A large pay-and-display car park is located near the main ferry terminal, which is perfect for long stays.
If possible, we recommend pre-booking your space, as port car parks can fill up quickly, especially during the busy summer months or at weekends.
If you're looking for accommodation near the port of Dover before your journey, be sure to check out our Accommodation page for the best deals and prices. You'll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets and travel preferences.
Staying close to the port can make your journey much more relaxing – just wake up and head straight to your ferry! We recommend booking as early as possible to secure the lowest prices and availability, especially during peak travel periods when accommodation can fill up quickly.
Many ferry operators aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, but facilities can vary by ship. For more information, we recommend checking directly with the ferry operator you are traveling with.
Ferries are often equipped with facilities such as step-free access, accessible cabins and toilets and dedicated seating areas. If you require assistance on board, then make sure you let the ferry operator know well in advance, so they make any special arrangements to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible.
DFDS:
P&O Ferries:
Luggage allowances on ferries between Dover and Calais can vary depending on the operator. Whilst many ferries don't have strict limits, it's always best to check in advance, as larger or additional items may incur an extra fee. If you're traveling with a vehicle, you'll usually be able to bring more luggage with you.
Ferries to Calais from Dover arrive at the Port of Calais (Port Boulogne Calais), located on the northern coast of France. The terminal connects directly to the A26 and A16 motorways, making for very easy onward travel. There is also a free local shuttle bus service that transports foot passengers to the city center and the train station. For more information, check out our port guide below.
Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Dover to Calais, and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.
To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.
Booking your Dover to Calais ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.
The best time to book ferries from Dover to Calais is as early as possible. Booking in advance often secures lower prices, along with a wider choice of departure times, seating, and cabin options. We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, particularly during peak holiday seasons. Prices can vary depending on demand and availability.
If no sailings from Dover to Calais appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.
After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.
Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.
Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.
At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.
| Season | From price |
|---|---|
| Autumn (Sep - Nov) | $34 |
| Winter (Dec - Feb) | $46 |
| Spring (Mar - May) | $34 |
| Summer (Jun - Aug) | $34 |
*Based on a one-way trip with one adult
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $28 |
| Car | $8 |
| Cabin | $46 |
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| Dover - Calais Ferry Route Summary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Country | England | |
| Destination Country | France | |
| No. of Operators | 3 | |
| Operators | Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries & DFDS Seaways | |
| Average Price | $221 | |
| Average Daily Sailings | 23 | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 156 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 1 h 40 m | |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 1 h 25 m | |
| First Ferry | 00:15 | |
| Last Ferry | 23:55 | |
| Distance | 33 Nautical Miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 June 2026.
Dover Port (Port of Dover) is one of the busiest ferry ports on the south coast of England. Located in the coastal town of Dover, the port offers frequent Dover ferry services to destinations across the English Channel, including Calais, Dunkirk, and Cherbourg.
Dover Port serves both foot passengers and vehicles and is a key departure point for ferry travel between the UK and mainland Europe. With numerous daily sailings, travelers are advised to arrive early and check their departure terminal when travelling with Dover ferry tickets.
Address: Port of Dover, Dover, Kent CT17 9DQ, England
Dover Port has multiple ferry terminals used by different ferry operators. Most passenger ferry departures operate from the Eastern Docks, which are clearly signposted and easily accessible.
Calais Port (Port of Calais) is one of the main ferry ports in northern France. Located in the coastal city of Calais, the port provides regular Calais ferry services connecting France with the UK, including routes to Dover, Dunkirk and Folkestone.
Calais Port serves both foot passengers and vehicles and is one of Europe’s busiest ferry hubs. Due to high passenger volumes throughout the year, travelers are encouraged to arrive early when traveling with Calais ferry tickets.
Address: Port of Calais, 62100 Calais, France
Calais Port operates from a main ferry terminal complex with several docks used by different ferry operators. Passenger ferry departures are clearly signposted and located close to the city centre.
Dover is a historic port town on England’s southeast coast, known for its iconic White Cliffs and maritime heritage. As one of the UK’s main ferry gateways to Europe, Dover offers a mix of history, coastal scenery, and easy access to nearby destinations.
Calais is a vibrant coastal city in northern France, known for its maritime importance, sandy beaches, and proximity to the UK. As one of Europe’s busiest ferry ports, Calais offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and seaside charm.
