The Ultimate Channel Ferry Guide

Whether you’re chasing a budget-friendly getaway or simply want to take the scenic route, hopping on a ferry is a brilliant way to cross the Channel. Picture yourself relaxing in roomy, comfy seats with space to stretch out, strolling sunny open decks with endless sea views, and browsing duty-free shops for bargains. With restaurants, entertainment, and fresh sea air, the journey is as enjoyable as the destination. 

Cross-Channel ferries aren’t just practical—they’re an adventure. Take your car, camper, and as much luggage as you like and hit the road on the other side. It’s one of the easiest and most flexible ways to travel between England and France.

Which Channel ferry route will you take?

It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning a family escape to England’s sunny south coast or a romantic break exploring the dramatic coastline of Normandy, there’s a route to suit every travel plan. 

From the UK, ferries sail from ports like Dover, Poole, Portsmouth, Plymouth, and Newhaven. Across the Channel, you can arrive at Calais, Dunkirk, Cherbourg, Dieppe, Caen, Roscoff, St-Malo, or Le Havre. With so many options, your Channel crossing can be tailored perfectly to your trip.

Popular Channel Ferry Crossings from England to France

• Dover to Calais ferry – Fast crossing, approx. 1h 30m
• Dover to Dunkirk ferry – Quick and convenient, approx. 2h
• Portsmouth to Caen ferry – Relaxing route, approx. 6h
• Poole to Cherbourg ferry – Great for road trips, approx. 4h 45m 
• Portsmouth to St Malo ferry – Overnight option, approx. 10h 51m 
• Portsmouth to Le Havre ferry – Smooth sailing, approx. 6h 30m 
• Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry – Comfortable crossing, approx. 7h 45m 
• Poole to St Malo ferry – Ideal for exploring Brittany, approx. 6h 
• Newhaven to Dieppe ferry – Great value, approx. 4h 15m 
• Plymouth to Roscoff ferry – Scenic sailing, approx. 9h

Popular Channel Ferry Crossings from France to England

• Calais to Dover ferry – Fast and frequent, approx. 1h 30m 
• Dunkirk to Dover ferry – Great for drivers, approx. 2h
• Caen to Portsmouth ferry – Relaxed journey, approx. 6h
• Cherbourg to Poole ferry – Perfect for short breaks, approx. 4h 30m 
• St Malo to Portsmouth ferry – Overnight voyage, approx. 8h 49m 
• Le Havre to Portsmouth ferry – Popular choice, approx. 10h 42m 
• Cherbourg to Portsmouth ferry – Direct route, approx. 5h 30m
• St Malo to Poole ferry – Convenient for Brittany trips, approx. 6h 
• Dieppe to Newhaven ferry – Budget-friendly, approx. 4h 
• Roscoff to Plymouth ferry – Great for Cornwall access, approx. 6h 10m

Channel Ferry Operators

When it comes to crossing the English Channel, you’re spoiled for choice with some of the best ferry companies in Europe. Whether you’re planning a quick hop or a scenic overnight sail, these trusted operators have you covered: 

• DFDS Seaways 
• Brittany Ferries 
• P&O Ferries 
• Irish Ferries 
• Condor Ferries

How Long Does a Channel Ferry Crossing Take?

The duration of your journey depends on the route you choose: The fastest crossing is from Dover to Calais, which takes just 1 hour 30 minutes to reach France. The longest crossing is from Portsmouth to St Malo, a relaxing 10 hours and 51 minutes, perfect for an overnight adventure.

Taking Your Car Across the Channel

One of the biggest perks of travelling by ferry? You can bring your vehicle along. This means you’re free to roam and discover hidden gems at your own pace once you arrive. No need to worry about public transport schedules – craft your own itinerary and enjoy the ultimate road trip across Europe!

Travelling with a Campervan

Bringing your campervan on the ferry from France or England is the ultimate way to add a sense of adventure to your trip. A favourite for families and budget-savvy travellers, campervans let you skip the cost of hotels and enjoy a true home-on-the-road experience. 

Perfect for self-catering holidays, you’ll have everything you need with you – from your kitchen to your cosy bed. And with countless campsites dotted across Europe, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whether you’re drawn to peaceful countryside retreats or scenic coastal spots, your next stop is entirely up to you!

Itinerary Inspiration

Taking your vehicle on a Channel ferry to France or England unlocks the perfect road trip adventure. Just drive off the ferry and let the journey unfold – the open road is yours to explore!

Explore France

Ferries to Dieppe, Caen, or Cherbourg take you right to the heart of Normandy. From here, you can discover:

Normandy

Mont-Saint-Michel – the iconic abbey rising from the tidal bay. 

Bayeux – home to the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry. 

Rouen – a historic city filled with medieval charm. 

Honfleur – with its picturesque old port and art galleries. 

D-Day Landing Beaches – steeped in history and remembrance.

Beautiful Brittany

Sailing into St Malo is your gateway to Brittany’s rugged coastline and charming towns: 

St Malo – wander the walled city and enjoy sweeping sea views. 

Dinan – step back in time in this medieval gem. 

Rennes – Brittany’s vibrant capital, full of culture and cafés. 

Carnac – marvel at ancient standing stones and sandy beaches.

Belgium Beckons

Fancy venturing further? Take a ferry to Dunkirk and you’re less than an hour’s drive from Belgium: 

Bruges – a fairy-tale city of canals and cobblestones. 

Ghent – brimming with art, history and buzzing energy. 

Brussels – for waffles, chocolate, and grand architecture.

Discover England

Hop on a Channel ferry from France to one of England’s south coast ports – Dover, Poole, Portsmouth, Plymouth or Newhaven – and you’re perfectly placed to start exploring. Whether you stick to the stunning south or venture further north, England’s excellent road network makes it all within easy reach.

Explore the South Coast

Poole & Dorset’s Jurassic Coast

Arriving in Poole? You’re just a short drive from the breathtaking Jurassic Coast. Marvel at natural wonders like Durdle Door and relax at Lulworth Cove, a perfect spot for seaside adventures.

Plymouth & Cornwall’s Hidden Gems

Dock in Plymouth and head straight for Cornwall’s rugged beauty. Discover Land’s End, wander charming fishing villages like St Ives, and soak up the sun on Kynance Cove’s spectacular beaches.

City Vibes & Beyond

Newhaven & Brighton’s Buzz

Step off the ferry at Newhaven and dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Brighton, with its iconic pier, indie shops, and lively seafront.

Dover & Quick Trips to London

Arrive in Dover and you’re just a 2-hour drive from London. Once in the capital, why not keep going? Cities like Birmingham and Manchester are well-connected and waiting to be explored.

Book Your Channel Ferry Tickets with Ease

Planning your next adventure? At Direct Ferries, booking your Channel ferry couldn’t be simpler. Use our Deal Finder to choose your route and instantly view live prices and availability. 

Prices can vary depending on the season, the size of your vehicle, and the number of passengers – so booking early is the best way to secure the lowest fares. Your cross-Channel journey awaits. Are you ready to hit the road? Book your ferry tickets today and start your adventure!