Ferry Ticket Types

Ferry Ticket Types

Ferry ticket types: Which one is right for me?

Ferry tickets come in various types and are subject to different terms and conditions. Depending on your travel plans, budget and the number of passengers, some options may be more suitable than others. On this page, we provide an overview of our ticket types, as well as helpful tips for booking your ferry.


Contents


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What types of tickets are available?

The types of tickets available vary depending on the ferry company and route, and they also have different names. However, our booking process always includes a detailed description of the services included in each ticket. These are also listed again in your booking confirmation.


Ticket typeKey featuresPerfect for
Standard ticket
  • Fixed travel dates
  • Usually cheaper than flexible tickets
  • Travellers with clear plans 
  • Business trips 
  • Weekend breaks
Discounted tickets 
  • Significantly discounted
  • Usually tied to a specific date
  • Limited availability
  • Budget-conscious travellers
  • Long-term planning
Flexible tickets
  • Changes or cancellations are often possible up to 48 hours before departure (free of charge or for a small fee)
  • More flexibility when plans change
  • Families
  • Backpackers
  • Unpredictable schedules
  • Longer trips 
Family tickets
  • Discounted fares for adults and children
  • Often flexible terms and conditions
  • Extras such as seats or luggage, are sometimes included 
  • Families with children
Concession tickets
  • Depending on age or proof of eligibility
  • Children
  • Students
  • Senior citizens
  • People with disabilities

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Which ticket should I book?

All ticket types have their pros and cons. Early bookers often benefit from cheaper fares and a wider choice of sailing times and seats, but are also more tied to their booking. Flexible tickets offer protection against unforeseen events and give you the freedom to change your itinerary at short notice.

Can I change or cancel my ticket?

You can easily request changes via the ‘Manage my booking’ button. Please note, however, that the options available depend on the ferry operator’s policies and availability, as well as the type of ticket you have booked.

manage my booking on direct ferries website
Manage my booking page on direct ferries

Unless your ticket includes free changes (e.g. cancellation for any reason), any changes may be subject to an administration fee and any price differences.

ticket types

How do I get my tickets?

The way your ticket is issued varies depending on the ferry company. It may, for example, be an e-ticket that is sent to you by email or can be accessed via the Direct Ferries app, or you may need to collect your tickets at the departure port.

Does my ticket automatically include a seat or a cabin?

Depending on the ferry operator, a seat – or even a reserved seat – may already be included in the price. This will be clearly indicated during the booking process. Cabins must always be booked separately, and are typically available in a range of price categories, such as standard, superior, family or pet-friendly options.

For example, on the ferry journey from Barcelona to Genoa, a reserved seat is included in the fare. Alternatively, you can choose from a range of cabins. These may include shared cabins, accessible cabins, or pet-friendly options.

barcelona to genoa ferry seating and cabin options

Who can I contact if I have any questions?

If you have any questions, please feel free to visit our Help Centre or contact our customer service team.


Optional extras

Depending on your budget and requirements, it may be worth adding optional extras to your booking. These vary by ferry operator and vessel but usually include the following options:


  • Priority boarding
  • Lounge access
  • Wi-Fi packages (unless available free of charge)
  • Pre-ordering a meal in the restaurant

For example, on the ferry from Barcelona to Genoa, you can order meals in advance:

pre booking meals during direct ferries booking process

On the ferry from Dover to Calais, you can upgrade your journey to include access to the Club Lounge.

dover to calais club lounge

There's a wide range of ticket types available to suit a variety of needs. Optional extras such as priority boarding or pre-booking a specific meal add that extra touch. Whichever ticket you choose, you're guaranteed an enjoyable experience on board, with friendly staff, plenty of space to move about and a range of amenities. Use our price finder to find your ideal ferry now!


Our help section
Ferry travel with pets
Accessible ferry travel
What to do on board

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Visit our customer service page to find useful information on travelling by ferry, our FAQs, and how to contact us for help with your booking

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