Dover – Dunkirk
Ferry to France
Dover – Dunkirk
Ferry to France
You can get a ferry from Dover to Dunkirk. Available all year round, the Dover to Dunkirk ferry is a popular UK to France ferry route. Ferries from Dover to Dunkirk are operated by 1 ferry company; DFDS Seaways, with a total of 9 daily and 62 weekly sailings. At Direct Ferries, we've made booking your ferry to France easy. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and find a Dover to Dunkirk ferry to suit you.
Dover to Dunkirk first ferry: departs Dover at 02:00.
Dover to Dunkirk last ferry: departs Dover at around 23:59.
Bear in mind that the Dover Dunkirk ferry times can vary by season. We recommend checking the latest Dover to Dunkirk ferry timetable before you book.
The duration of the Dover to Dunkirk ferry depends on whether you’re travelling on a fast ferry or a conventional ferry. Ferries from Dover to Dunkirk usually take around 2 hours on average.
Average Dover Dunkirk ferry time: 2 hours
The fastest ferries from Dover to Dunkirk take 2 hours.
Ferries from Dover to Dunkirk are provided by 1 ferry company; DFDS Seaways with 9 daily and 62 weekly sailings. Bear in mind, the DFDS Seaways Dover to Dunkirk ferry timetable can change throughout the seasons, with more options available in the summer months.
Ferry frequency: the Dover ferry to Dunkirk runs all year round
DFDS Seaways: 9 daily sailings and 62 weekly sailings
There is 1 ferry company that sails from Dover to Dunkirk. The Dover to Dunkirk ferry is operated by DFDS Seaways.
Dover to Dunkirk ferry prices can vary depending on the ferry company you're travelling with, the season you're travelling in and whether you're travelling with a vehicle or by foot. Prices on this ferry route usually range from £108.00 to £293.00. We recommend checking out our Deal Finder for the latest prices.
Average Dover to Dunkirk ferry price: £213.00
Lowest Dover to Dunkirk ferry price: £108.00
Dover to Dunkirk distance: approximately 59.9 miles (96.4km) or 52 nautical miles.
With an average duration of 2 hours on the Dover to Dunkirk ferry route, you can easily do a UK to France day trip.
Yes, you can get the ferry from Dover to Dunkirk with a car.
Car operators: DFDS Seaways
Car prices: usually between £111 to £268
Cheapest car price: £79
Unfortunately, there is not a Dover to Dunkirk foot passenger ferry. However, you can travel by car on the ferry to Dunkirk. There are also plenty of alternative routes if you're wishing to travel by foot.
Pets are allowed on Dover ferries to Dunkirk. However, you must let the ferry company know you are travelling with a pet at the time of your booking.
Pet-friendly operators:
DFDS Seaways
You will need the following things with you when travelling with your pet on a ferry from Dover to Dunkirk.
DFDS Seaways:
Pets must remain in your vehicle for the duration of the ferry. However, you can visit them during the crossing.
DFDS Seaways pet price:
£30 per pet per way
You can travel with guide dogs and assistance dogs on the boat from Dover to Dunkirk. However, you must let the ferry company know at the time of booking. You may also have to present any necessary certificates if asked to do so on board.
Different rules apply for guide dogs and assistance dogs. Instead of remaining in your vehicle, they can stay with you for the duration of the journey.
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| Dover - Dunkirk Ferry Route summary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Destination | England | |
| Destination | France | |
| No. of Operators | 1 | |
| Operators | DFDS Seaways | |
| Average Price | £213 | |
| Average Daily Sailings | 9 | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 62 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 2 h | |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 2 h | |
| First Ferry | 02:00 | |
| Last Ferry | 23:59 | |
| Distance | 52 Nautical Miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 July 2025.
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Dover ferry port is a great departure point if you're wanting to explore the rich history and natural beauty of southeast England. Known for the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, this port city attracts visitors with its stunning coastal views and fascinating wartime history. The Dover Castle, perched above the town, offers a glimpse into medieval and wartime periods with its well-preserved fortifications and underground tunnels. From Dover, travellers can easily access major cities like London and Canterbury via frequent train services from Dover Priory station, which is a short bus or taxi ride from the ferry port. The city also hosts the Dover Regatta, an annual event celebrating maritime heritage with boat races and family activities. Whether you fancy exploring historic sites or enjoying the coastal charm, Dover ferry port provides the perfect start to your journey.
Dunkirk ferry port serves as a link between France and various destinations across the Channel, offering travellers a range of historical sites and exciting attractions. Notably, Dunkirk is renowned for its role in World War II, and the Dunkirk War Museum provides a deep dive into the town's significant past. Visitors also flock to the town's beautiful beaches and the picturesque Malo-les-Bains which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a dip in the sea. Whilst you're in Dunkirk, don't miss the opportunity to climb the Dunkirk Lighthouse for panoramic views. The town is also known for its lively Carnival, celebrated with parades and dances every year around February to March. From Dunkirk ferry port, travellers can easily catch a train or bus to the city centre, making it easy for onward travel. The port's strategic location allows for convenient trips to nearby Belgian cities such as Bruges and Ghent too, enhancing its appeal as a travel hub.
We recommend booking in advance to get the cheapest Dover to Dunkirk ferry. Dunkirk to Dunkirk ferry prices vary depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Dunkirk Dover ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out, so if you’re travelling from Dover to Dunkirk in summer, it’s always best to make your Dover to Dunkirk ferry booking in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the cheapest ferry from Dover to Dunkirk.
Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Dover Dunkirk ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Dover to Dunkirk ferry booking.
Here's everything you need to know about travelling onboard the ferry to Dunkirk from Dover:
It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.
If you're getting the Dover to Dunkirk ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Dover to Dunkirk ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.
DFDS Seaways: no specific limit
There are a wide range of facilities available on board the ferry between Dover and Dunkirk. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.
Planning on doing some shopping on your way to Dunkirk? You're in luck! Duty-free shopping is available on the Dover to Dunkirk ferry so you can save on everything from cosmetics to electronics and more.
The accommodation and seating on the Dover to Dunkirk boat differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin.
DFDS Seaways: A range of cabins are available on board for passengers including an all-inclusive Premium Lounge at an added cost.
Yes, the ferries from Dover to Dunkirk are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.
DFDS Seaways: Accessible toilets and lifts are available on board.
Find out everything you need to know about taking the ferry from Dover to Dunkirk.
How early you need to arrive at Dover ferry port depends on the operator you're travelling with and whether you are travelling with a vehicle or by foot.
We recommend arriving at Dover port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.
Your Dover Dunkirk tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.
Although you may be able to get on the ferry if you turn up at Dover ferry port without pre-booking a ticket, we recommend booking your ferry tickets to Dunkirk in advance to guarantee your place on the ferry. There is often limited space on board and prices can be a lot higher if you don't pre-book your tickets.
The latest check-in time for your Dover to Dunkirk ferry booking should be in your confirmation email.
DFDS Seaways: usually 60 mins before departure
Unfortunately, parking is not available inside the ferry port. However, there are car parks nearby. You'll then need to either get a shuttle or a taxi to the port.
Dover port is easy to reach.
By car: take the M20 until you reach Folkestone. Continue on the A20 until you get to Eastern Docks roundabout. Once there, take the first left into the ferry terminal.
By coach: you can get a coach from London Victoria to Dover. The journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes.
By train: trains are also available from London to Dover Priory. These are operated by Southeastern trains. The train station is located around 1.5 miles from the port.
Ferries to Dunkirk will take you to the north coast of France, close to the Belgium border. When you've arrived at the terminal, make sure you follow the signs. Be prepared for security checks and have your passports ready for inspection.
Speed limits in Dunkirk are as follows:
Motorways: 130km/h or 80mph
Dual carriageways: 110km/h or 70mph
Main roads outside built-up areas: 80km/h or 50mph
Main roads within built-up areas: 50km/h or 30mph
