Portsmouth – Caen
Ferry to France
Portsmouth – Caen
Ferry to France
Yes, you can get a ferry from Portsmouth to France (Caen). The Portsmouth to Caen ferry route is provided by 1 ferry company and is available for booking all year round. Brittany Ferries operate this route which usually takes around 6 hours and costs between £126.00 and £666.00, depending on ticket details. Bear in mind that prices exclude any service fees. Currently, there are around 3 daily and 20 weekly sailings between Portsmouth and Caen but ferry timetables often change seasonally. You can use our Deal Finder to get live pricing and availability for Portsmouth Caen ferries.
Portsmouth to Caen first ferry: departs Portsmouth at 08:00.
Portsmouth to Caen last ferry: departs Portsmouth at around 23:30.
Bear in mind that Portsmouth to France ferry times can vary by season. We recommend checking the latest Portsmouth to Caen ferry timetable before you book.
How long the Portsmouth to Caen ferry is depends on whether you’re travelling on a Portsmouth Caen fast ferry or conventional ferry. The Portsmouth to Caen ferry duration is usually around 6 hours on average.
Average Portsmouth to Caen ferry time: 6 hours
Fastest ferry: 6 hours
Longest ferry: 7 hours 30 minutes
Ferries from Portsmouth to Caen are provided by 1 ferry company; Brittany Ferries with 3 daily and 20 weekly sailings. Bear in mind, the Portsmouth to Caen ferry timetable can change throughout the seasons, with more options available in the summer months.
Ferry frequency: the Portsmouth ferry to Caen runs all year round
Brittany Ferries: 3 daily sailings and 20 weekly sailings
The fastest ferry from Portsmouth to Caen is with Brittany Ferries. The fastest Portsmouth to France ferry time is 6 hours.
Yes, you can get an overnight ferry to France from Portsmouth.
Yes, you can book cabins on the Portsmouth ferry to France.
Portsmouth to Caen ferry prices typically range between £126.00* and £666.00* with an average price of around £319.00*. If you’re travelling as a foot passenger, you can expect to pay around £114.00* or if you’re travelling with a car, the average price is about £343.00*. Pricing will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Prices exclude service fees.
Average Portsmouth to Caen ferry cost: £319.00
Find cheap Portsmouth to Normandy ferry tickets using our deal finder. We recommend booking ferries to France from Portsmouth in advance for the best possible prices and availability. With 20 sailings per week, you're bound to find a suitable ferry crossing. However, there are alternative ferries to France available if you need more flexibility.
Portsmouth to Caen distance: approximately 120.4 miles (193.8km) or 105 nautical miles.
Yes, you can get the ferry from Portsmouth to Caen with a car.
Car operators: Brittany Ferries
How much is a car ferry from Portsmouth to Caen?
Car prices: usually between £186 and £699
Cheapest car price: around £93
Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Portsmouth to Caen ferry.
Portsmouth Caen foot passenger ferries: Brittany Ferries
How much is a Portsmouth to Caen foot passenger ferry?
Foot passenger price: usually between £64 and £408
Cheapest foot passenger price: around £28
Yes, you can take your camper on the ferry from Portsmouth to Caen.
Portsmouth to Caen camper price: usually between £250 and £725
Cheapest camper price: around £104
The Portsmouth to Caen ferry docks in Ouistreham which is located around 15km north of Caen.
Pets are allowed on ferries travelling from Portsmouth to Caen with Brittany Ferries. Please bear in mind that your pet may have to stay in the vehicle during the journey unless the ferry company supplies pet accommodation. We'd recommend checking the ferry company's pet policy before you book.
You will need the following things with you when travelling with your pet on the Portsmouth ferry to France.
Brittany Ferries:
You can travel with guide dogs and assistance dogs on the boat from Portsmouth to Caen. 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.
More routes than anyone else.
Compare fares, times & routes in one place.
Change plans easily with flexi tickets.
Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.
Live ship tracking & real-time updates.
Top-rated customer support when you need it.
| Portsmouth - Caen Ferry Route summary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Destination | England | |
| Destination | France | |
| No. of Operators | 1 | |
| Operators | Brittany Ferries | |
| Average Price | £319 | |
| Average Daily Sailings | 3 | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 20 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 6 h | |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 6 h | |
| First Ferry | 08:00 | |
| Last Ferry | 23:30 | |
| Distance | 105 Nautical Miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 July 2025.
"Night crossing"
"Mont Saint Michel"
"Relaxing moment "
"Very comfortable crossing"
Caen Ferry Port serves as a delightful starting point for travellers eager to explore the rich historical tapestry and vibrant culture of Normandy. This port city is renowned for its deep historical significance, playing a pivotal role in the events of D-Day during World War II. Visitors can explore the iconic Caen Memorial Museum, which offers profound insights into global peace. The city's two ancient abbeys, Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames, founded by William the Conqueror, also beckon history enthusiasts. For those looking to venture further, Caen Ferry Port provides seamless connections to various locales in France; the well-connected train services and bus routes make journeys to Paris and other regional highlights easily accessible. Upon arrival, reaching the city centre is a breeze with frequent buses and taxis readily available to whisk you into the heart of Caen. Whether you're delving into historical explorations or enjoying local culinary delights, Caen Ferry Port is an excellent starting point for your Normandy adventure.
Portsmouth Ferry Port, a bustling maritime hub, boasts a rich naval history and a plethora of modern attractions. This port city is renowned for the historic dockyard which houses the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, offering a deep dive into Britain's naval past. Beyond the docks, the Spinnaker Tower provides stunning panoramic views across the city and the Solent. For those keen on literary history, the Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum is a significant site. Portsmouth is also a hub for several events, including the annual Portsmouth Festivities that celebrate local arts, culture, and heritage. Efficient transport links are available, with direct trains and buses connecting the ferry port to the city centre swiftly, ensuring visitors can explore the area with ease. From Portsmouth, travellers can also easily access other popular destinations such as the Isle of Wight and France, making it an ideal starting point for various excursions.
We recommend booking in advance to find the cheapest ferry from Portsmouth to Caen. Caen to Caen ferry prices vary depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Caen to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Caen by boat in summer it’s always best to make your Portsmouth to Caen ferry booking in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the cheapest ferry from Portsmouth to Caen.
Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Portsmouth Caen ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Portsmouth to Caen ferry booking.
It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.
If you're getting the Portsmouth to France ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Portsmouth to Caen ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.
Brittany Ferries: they recommend a maximum of two pieces of luggage weighing 20kg per crossing
There are a wide range of facilities available on board the ferry between Portsmouth and Caen. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.
The accommodation and seating on the Portsmouth to Caen 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.
Brittany Ferries: Inside and outside cabins are available on board along with a variety of seating option
Yes, the ferries from Portsmouth to Caen 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.
Brittany Ferries: Wheelchair-accessible cabins are available on all ships, as well as disabled toilets.
It all depends on the ferry company you are travelling with. In general, we recommend arriving at Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth Caen 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.
The latest check-in time for your Portsmouth to Caen ferry booking should be in your confirmation email.
Brittany Ferries: 45 minutes before if you're travelling with a vehicle or on foot. 90 minutes before if you're travelling with a pet.
Yes, parking is available at Portsmouth ferry port.
By train: you can get direct trains to Portsmouth from stations across the UK including London Waterloo, Brighton, Gatwick Airport and Southampton.
By coach: direct coaches are available from London Victoria.
By car: exit M27 at Junction 12 and take the M275 to Portsmouth. Follow signs to the port.
Ferries to Caen take you to Ouistreham which is located around 15km north of Caen. Twisto operate a bus service between Ouistreham and Caen. Alternatively, taxis are available at the terminal to take you to Caen.
If you're travelling by car, standard speed limits in France are as follows:
Main roads in urban areas: 50 km/h or 31mph
Main roads outside urban areas: 80-90km/h or 50-56mph
Dual carriageways: 110kph or 70 mph
Motorways: 130km/h or 80mph
