Harwich Ferry

Harwich ferry port in England connects you with Hook of Holland in Holland with a choice of up to 14 ferry crossings per week. The duration of the Harwich to Hook of Holland crossing is from 7 hours and the crossing is operated by Stena Line.

Harwich

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Harwich Ferry Alternatives

Harwich Ferry Services

  • Stena Line
    • 14 Sailings Weekly 7 hr
    • Get price

Harwich Guide

Harwich ferry port is one of the five Haven ports on the east coast of England, situated in Essex, facing the North Sea. The UK’s second busiest passenger port, the main ferry activity is provided by Stena Line on the route to the Hook of Holland in the Netherlands, with approximately one million passengers travelling through Harwich ferry terminal each year.

What is the history of Harwich Port?

Sitting on a vast natural estuary, Harwich International Port has attracted trade to the UK for over 900 years from across the globe. Given its importance, the Harwich Haven Authority was established in 1863 to preserve 150 square miles of the surrounding area, with roughly 40% of the nation’s container traffic coming through annually.

In more recent times, the Harwich ferry crossings once included numerous connections with Sweden, Denmark and Germany operated by DFDS Seaways, but were discontinued in 2005. The port also welcomed many cruise ship calls during the summer months, but this has reduced to around a dozen per year.

What facilities are at the port?

The amenities at Harwich include all the basic services you would expect from a UK port such as cafes, vending machines, a children’s play area, disabled access and toilets. Visitors also have access to free Wi-Fi, rail ticket machines, a bureau de change and car park pay stations.

What is Harwich famous for?

With a long maritime history, Harwich was once home to notable navigators such as Drake, Newport and Hawkins, while the port itself is known for constructing the historic Mayflower which transported the Pilgrim Fathers to America in 1620. With more than just an affiliation with ships, the town is also home to the oldest purpose-built cinema in Britain.

How do I find Harwich Port?

Located on the south bank of the River Stour, opposite the Port of Felixstowe, the Harwich ferry port address is Station Road, Parkeston, Harwich CO12 4SR. 85 miles north east of London, it can be reached by the A12/A120 after the M25, or you can hop on a train to Harwich International Station which is right next to the ferry terminal.

How To Get To Harwich Ferry Port

  • Harwich Ferry Port by Car

    From the M25: Leave the M25 at junction 28 and follow the A12 (north) signposted Chelmsford and Colchester. At Colchester (Ardleigh Interchange) turn off the A12 onto the A120 following signs for Harwich. The road becomes single carriageway at Horsley Cross roundabout. Proceed for 6 miles until you reach Ramsey Hill Roundabout. Follow signs for Harwich International Port.

    From the Midlands and the North: It is easiest to use the A14 to Ipswich. At Ipswich join the A12 (south) towards Colchester. At Colchester join the A120 and follow as above.

  • Harwich Ferry Port by Trains

    Trains run from London Liverpool Street station to Harwich International. Local rail services arrive at the terminal building, where an escalator will take you directly to the check in point. For more information and booking, please visit our trains to Harwich page.

  • Harwich Ferry Port Parking

    There are well sign posted short and long term parking facilities at the entrance to the ferry port. Parking is charged at a daily rate.

  • Harwich Ferry Port Address

    Parkeston Quay, Parkeston, Harwich, CO12 4SR

  • Harwich Accommodation

    If you’re looking to spend a night at or near Harwich Ferry port before or after your trip or if you are looking for accommodation for your entire stay, please visit our Harwich Accommodation page for the best accommodation prices and one of the largest selections available online!