Travelling by car

Taking your car or motorhome on holiday gives you the freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace, without luggage restrictions or expensive car hire charges. It also means you can explore multiple countries in one trip whilst reducing the need for extra flights and long journeys in cramped cabins. Every year, millions of travellers choose to take their car on the ferry – and for good reason.

Contents

• Advantages of taking the ferry over hiring a car
• Popular car ferry routes
• How to add a vehicle onto your booking
• Tips for a hassle-free journey

Advantages of taking the ferry over hiring a car

Still wondering if taking your car on the ferry is the right choice? Here's everything you need to know.

Flexibility and independence

Change your route on the spur of the moment without having to rely on public transport, and enjoy the comfort of travelling in your own car rather than an unfamiliar hire car.

Less stress than with hire car companies

Travelling with your own car also means you get to avoid confusing terms and conditions, hidden charges and strict restrictions that can come with hiring a car.

Cost-effective for families and groups

When travelling with several passengers, taking a vehicle on the ferry is often cheaper than booking several flight tickets.

Generous luggage allowances

Airlines always have strict luggage restrictions. Travelling with your car on a ferry means you can take plenty of luggage with you. You can often bring your pet too!

A relaxing journey

Enjoy the freedom to move around on board, with access to lounges, restaurants, shops and, of course, the fresh sea air – all whilst knowing your car is safely with you. Travelling by ferry is also a great alternative for those who are afraid of flying, allowing you to explore destinations that are otherwise typically associated with air travel.

Popular car ferry routes

Looking for some inspiration? Here are some popular car ferry routes:

Dover to Calais

The route from Dover to Calais is probably the busiest way to travel to France by car. Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries and DFDS offer numerous crossings every day with plenty of space for vehicles on board.

Helsinki to Tallinn

The ferry route between Helsinki and Tallinn is one of the most popular in Northern Europe. It takes just two hours to travel from the Finnish capital to the Estonian capital – ideal for a day trip or simply a convenient onward journey. Three ferry companies operate this route: Tallink Silja Line, Viking Line and Eckerö Line. Despite the short journey time, there are a number of amenities on board to make your outward and return journeys even more enjoyable.

Top tip: Why not make the most of this quick ferry crossing and visit the Christmas markets in both Tallinn and Helsinki?

Ancona to Igoumenitsa

There are also convenient ferry routes in southern Europe that are ideal if you're travelling with your car. For example, you can sail from Italy to Greece on routes such as Ancona to Igoumenitsa, operated by Grimaldi Lines and Anek Superfast. Taking the ferry saves you from a long overland drive while still allowing you to bring your car or motorhome, giving you the freedom to explore and plan your holiday exactly as you wish.

Almería to Nador

You can travel from Europe to Africa with your car in just a few hours on the Almería to Nador ferry route, with services operated by Balearia, Naviera Armas and Grandi Navi Veloci.

Wellington – Picton (New Zealand)

Ferry journeys by car aren’t just a wonderful way to travel in Europe. They’re also ideal for exploring New Zealand – whether you end up hiring a car once you’re there, or you live there and are visiting friends and family. Interislander and Bluebridge will take you from the North Island to the South Island in around 3 hours 30 minutes – not only the most direct and fastest route across the Cook Strait, but also one of the most spectacular ferry journeys in the world.

How to add a vehicle onto your booking

Booking tickets has never been easier. Here are the key steps:

1. First, enter your desired ferry route, travel dates and the number of passengers in our price finder. Then click on the ‘Vehicle’ button and select ‘Car’.
2. Next, enter the make and model of your vehicle. For larger vehicles, you may also need to provide the dimensions. Finally, you’ll be asked about any attachments to your vehicle (e.g. a roof box or trailer). Here, you’ll need to provide the dimensions if your vehicle has any attachments.
3. Once all the details are correct, click ‘Search’. You’ll be shown all available ferry journeys on your chosen date, which you can sort by price, crossing time or ferry operator, amongst other criteria.
4. Once you’ve found your ideal crossing, you can add cabins, seats or lounge access, depending on the route and availability. Finally, enter your personal and payment details and book your trip!

Tips for a hassle-free journey

Save yourself unnecessary stress with these four tips:

• Please arrive at the port at least 45 to 90 minutes before departure to allow sufficient time for security checks and boarding.
• Secure any bags, suitcases, electronic equipment and loose items in your vehicle.
• Make sure you have your key documents to hand, such as your booking confirmation, your passport or any required insurance certificates.
• Please follow the staff’s instructions and ensure that the handbrake is applied before leaving the vehicle deck.

Book your car ferry

Whether you’re planning a road trip, booking a camping holiday or simply want to travel at a leisurely pace, taking your car on a ferry opens up a whole new world of travel possibilities. Use our price finder to find your ideal car ferry and book your next holiday!