Dover to Calais Ferry

Dover to Calais Ferry Most Popular Questions

• How long is the ferry from Dover to Calais?

  The Dover Calais ferry trip can take around 1 hour 40 minutes. The fastest sailings are approximately 40 minutes with P&O Ferries. Sailing times can vary between ferry operators and can be impacted by weather conditions. Our Deal Finder can tell you if your preferred ferry is a high-speed-ferry or conventional ferry.

• How much is the ferry from Dover to Calais?

  Dover Calais ferry prices typically range between £23* and £302*. The average price is typically £154*. The cheapest Dover Calais ferry prices start from £23*. The average price for a foot passenger is £57*. The average price for a car is £148*. Pricing will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over last 30 days and exclusive of service fees, last updated September 26.

• Which ferry companies operate between Dover to Calais?

  There are 3 popular ferry operators for Dover to Calais. These are

  • Irish Ferries
  • P&O Ferries
  • DFDS Seaways
• How far is it from Dover to Calais?

  The distance between Dover to Calais is approximately 37.8 miles (60.8km) or 33 nautical miles.

• Can I take my pet on the ferry from Dover to Calais?

  Pets are allowed on ferries travelling from Dover to Calais with Irish Ferries & P&O Ferries. The average price for travelling with a pet on board Dover to Calais ferries is £207. Pricing is taken from searches over the last 30 days and is exclusive of service fees, last updated September 26.
   

• Can I reserve a cabin on the Dover ferry to Calais?

  There are cabins available on ferries from Dover to Calais with Irish Ferries. The average cabin price on the Dover Calais ferry route is £219. Price exclusive of booking fees.

• Why are there no ferries available on the date I want to travel?

  There could be various reasons why there are no departures from Dover to Calais for the date you’ve requested. Possible reasons include: Limited availability - Dover to Calais is an extremely popular sailing all year round, so ferries can often sell out quickly. Temporary cancellations - ferries can sometimes be rescheduled due to weather conditions, maintenance or port closures. If your preferred sailing isn’t available, then we’d recommend checking other dates or looking for overnight crossings, as these can sometimes be quieter. We’d also recommend looking at alternative departure or arrival ports.

• Can I just turn up at Dover and get a ferry?

  Although it’s sometimes possible to buy tickets at the port on the day of travel, we recommend booking your sailing in advance. Ferry crossings can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer periods or on weekends. Booking your ferry tickets to Calais ahead of time allows you to secure your preferred sailing and often save money, as prices tend to be lower the earlier you book. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, it’s especially important to reserve in advance to guarantee a space on board.

• Is there a Dover to Calais overnight ferry?

  Ferries run all day on the Dover to Calais route. This means you can also take a ferry from England to France late in the evening or at night. Use our Deal Finder to find out whether your desired ferry is a night ferry. Please note that the duration of the night ferries is usually slightly longer than that of the day ferries.
   

• Can I amend my ferry tickets?

  You can easily request amendments through “Manage My Booking”, though changes depend on the ferry operator’s policy and availability—and may incur an admin fee plus any fare difference. Alternatively, you can opt for a flexi fare (when available) to enjoy fee-free date, time, vehicle or seat changes (subject to availability). We understand you may have questions such as what happens if your sailing is delayed or cancelled, whether you're entitled to compensation, or what the fees are for cancelling or changing your booking. For guidance on these and other topics, you can find helpful information in our Help Centre or read our How to Amend, Change and Cancel your Booking guide. Alternatively, our customer support team is always happy to help.

• Should I book my ferry tickets in advance for better prices and availability

  Ferry prices tend to rise as space onboard the ferry becomes more limited, and cabins or specific seating options can sell out early—especially during school or public holidays. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best fares and seat choices. For more budget-friendly booking tips, also read our guide.

• What border checks happen on the Dover to Calais ferry?

  Because of the controls agreement between the UK and France, passport checks for the route between Dover and Calais happen before you board rather than on arrival. French police check passports at Dover, and UK Border Force checks passports at Calais. Since the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) became fully operational in April 2026, non-EU passport holders (including UK citizens) also have their passport scanned and, on their first crossing, a photo and fingerprints taken. So, it’s best to plan in extra time at the port, especially in the summer & during public holidays. We recommend checking the website of the Foreign Office for the most up-to-date guidance. For more on the topic, you can read our guides here: Travel after Brexit & Europe Travel Guide. 

• Can I stay in my car during the crossing?

  No, for safety reasons, all passengers must leave the car deck once boarded and head to the passenger lounges, seats or cabins for the crossing. You'll be called back to your vehicle shortly before arrival.

• Is there parking at the port of Dover?

  Unfortunately, parking is not available at Dover port, so make sure you plan alternative arrangements before you set off. There are, however, plenty of independent parking companies offering secure parking facilities near the port with complimentary shuttle services.