Ferries offer a relaxed and practical way to reach Europe, especially if you want to take your own car or avoid flying. With several routes from the UK, they open up flexible road-trip holidays. This guide explains ferries to Europe, covering routes, costs and tips. Fares, routes and schedules vary by operator and season, so always check current details and book ahead for the best value on your chosen crossing.
Why take a ferry
A ferry has several appeals: you can take your own car, loaded with luggage and equipment, giving freedom to explore at your destination; you avoid flying, which suits nervous flyers and those who prefer not to fly; and you can often bring pets more easily than by air. The crossing itself can be a relaxing start to the holiday. For road trips, family holidays with lots of luggage, or travellers who dislike flying, the ferry is a flexible and appealing way to reach the continent.
Routes from the UK
Several ferry routes connect the UK with Europe, crossing the Channel to nearby continental ports and on longer routes to destinations further afield. Short Channel crossings are quick and frequent, while longer crossings reach ports that save driving at the other end. The route you choose affects both the crossing time and how far you then drive. Comparing the available routes for your destination, weighing the crossing length against the onward drive, helps you pick the most convenient and cost-effective option for your trip.
Costs
Ferry costs vary by route, operator, season, the size of your vehicle and how many passengers you have, as well as how far ahead you book. Taking a car costs more than travelling as a foot passenger, and peak times are dearer. Prices can range widely, so it pays to compare. Our guide on what UK drivers need to drive abroad covers the driving side. Comparing fares across routes and operators, and booking at a good time, helps you find the best value for your crossing and vehicle.
Booking and saving
Booking your ferry in advance is usually cheaper than turning up, and gives you a guaranteed place, especially important in peak season when crossings fill up. Comparing operators and routes, being flexible on dates and times, and travelling off-peak all help reduce the cost. Look out for deals and consider whether a longer crossing that saves driving is worth it. Booking ahead and comparing your options, rather than leaving it late, is the key to getting a good price on a ferry to Europe.
Crossing times
Crossing times vary enormously, from short Channel hops of around an hour or so to long overnight sailings of many hours. A short crossing means more driving on the other side, while a longer one covers distance for you, sometimes overnight while you sleep. Consider how the crossing time fits your journey and whether an overnight sailing suits you. Weighing the crossing time against the driving it saves helps you decide whether a quick hop or a longer sailing is the better fit for your trip.
Taking your car
One of the main reasons to take a ferry is bringing your own car, letting you pack freely and have your vehicle at your destination for a road trip. You drive on and off the ferry, and your car is parked on the vehicle deck during the crossing. Remember you will need the right documents and equipment to drive abroad. Our guide on driving abroad covers the requirements. Taking your car by ferry combines the convenience of your own vehicle with a relaxed way to cross to the continent.
Comfort and facilities
Ferries, especially on longer routes, offer facilities to make the crossing comfortable, such as seating areas, cafes and restaurants, shops, and cabins for overnight sailings where you can sleep. Booking a cabin for a long or overnight crossing lets you arrive rested. The onboard experience can make the journey part of the holiday rather than just transport. Considering the facilities and whether to book a cabin, particularly for longer sailings, helps you make the crossing as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Ferries versus other options
Compared with flying or the train, ferries are slower but let you take your car and avoid flying, suiting road trips and those who prefer the sea. The Channel Tunnel offers another way to take a car across quickly, while Eurostar carries foot passengers by train. Our guide on Eurostar versus flying compares the rail option. Weighing the ferry against these alternatives, based on whether you want your car, how much time you have and your preferences, helps you choose the best way to reach Europe.
Tips for a smooth crossing
For a smooth ferry trip, book in advance, arrive in good time as instructed by the operator, have your documents ready, and follow the boarding directions. Pack essentials you will want during the crossing in an accessible bag, as you may not have full access to your car. Consider seasickness precautions if you are prone to it. Preparing in these simple ways, and allowing enough time for boarding, helps your ferry crossing go smoothly and start your European holiday in a relaxed way.
Travelling with pets
One advantage of ferries for many travellers is the ease of bringing pets, as ferries often accommodate animals more readily than flights, whether staying in the vehicle, in pet-friendly areas, or in kennels on board, depending on the operator. You will need to meet the rules for taking a pet abroad, including the necessary documentation and health requirements. Checking the operator's pet policy and the official requirements for travelling with a pet well in advance ensures your animal can travel comfortably and legally on your ferry crossing to Europe.
Foot passengers and onward travel
You do not have to take a car on a ferry; travelling as a foot passenger is usually cheaper and can suit those continuing by train, bus or hire car at the other end. If travelling without a car, plan how you will get from the ferry port to your destination, as some ports are away from town centres. Considering onward travel from the port, and whether being a foot passenger or taking a car suits your trip better, helps you plan a ferry journey that works smoothly end to end, with the right choice of crossing and a clear plan for the journey beyond the port.
In short
Ferries to Europe let you take your own car, avoid flying and bring pets more easily, with routes ranging from short Channel crossings to longer sailings that save driving. Costs vary by route, vehicle, season and how far ahead you book, so compare and book early to save. Consider crossing times, cabins for overnight sailings, and the documents you need to drive abroad. Ferries also make travelling with pets easier, and you can travel as a foot passenger as well as with a car. Weigh the ferry against the train and flying, and book early, to choose what best suits your trip. For road trips and travellers who prefer not to fly, a ferry can be a relaxed and flexible way to reach the continent.
Explore more travel advice in our Flights & Getting There guides.