Calais - Dover
Ferries to England
Calais - Dover
Ferries to England
Ferries from Calais to Dover are operated by 3 ferry companies, including Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries & DFDS Seaways. The crossing typically takes around 1 hour 35 minutes. There are currently 211 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $28. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Dover today.
Last Updated: 10/19/2026
Calais to Dover ferry prices typically range from $28 to $351. The average ferry price from Calais to Dover is around $190. The cheapest fares usually start from $28. The average foot passenger ticket costs $72. The average price when traveling with a car is $179.
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated October 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Calais to Dover ferry cost approximately $27.86.
Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our Special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. To discover the best ways to secure cheaper travel, visit our budget travel guide.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.
Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.
Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address must be presented at check-in.
There are around 211 weekly sailings from Calais to Dover.
Irish Ferries provide 9 sailings daily, 61 sailings weekly. P&O Ferries provide 11 sailings daily, 74 sailings weekly. DFDS Seaways provide 10 sailings daily, 70 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.
The first ferry from Calais to Dover usually departs at around 00:10, with the last sailing leaving Calais Port at approximately 23:00.
Yes, day trips between Calais and Dover are very popular thanks to the short crossing time and frequent sailings. Traveling with a vehicle is a great way to explore the area at your own pace. For inspiration on the best things to do in Dover, please visit our blog.
The fastest ferry from Calais to Dover is with Irish Ferries in 1 hour 30 minutes.
The fastest ferries from Calais to Dover usually cost around $190.37.
Yes, Irish Ferries & P&O Ferries allow cars on ferries from Calais to Dover. Use our Deal Finder to view live prices for car ferries on this route.
Here are our top tips for traveling with a car:
Top tip: on this route, you'll pay the same price for your car, regardless of how many passengers you bring, making it great value for group travel.
Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Calais to Dover ferry.
For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.
Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the ferry from Calais to Dover with Irish Ferries & P&O Ferries. While most operators allow bicycles onboard, we recommend checking individual policies in advance to avoid any complications upon arrival at the port.
Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Calais to Dover with P&O Ferries.
First class is available on ferries from Calais to Dover with Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries and DFDS.
P&O's Club Lounge is open 24/7 and includes:
DFDS's Premium Lounge is also open 24/7 with staff on hand, and includes:
Please note that Priority Boarding is a separate add-on with DFDS, which costs from $14 per car each way. It isn't automatically included with Premium Lounge access, so add it separately if you want to be first on and off the ferry.
Irish Ferries' Club Class is included free with their Flexi+ fare, or can be added separately. It includes:
Please keep in mind that priority vehicle boarding is not included in Club Class on this route.
Yes, you can book cabins on ferries that sail from Calais to Dover with Irish Ferries. The price of a cabin on the Calais to Dover ferry ranges from $50.12 and $1,025.32, with an average price of $296.10. Please note that prices may vary depending on the type of cabin you book.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Calais and Dover depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check if an overnight option is available, alongside current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.
Pets are allowed on ferries from Calais to Dover with Irish Ferries & P&O Ferries. The average price for traveling with a pet is $290.
Pricing is based on searches from the last 30 days, excluding service fees, and was last updated October 26.
When traveling with your pet on a ferry, you'll usually need:
Where your pet stays on the ferry depends on the operator. Some ferries require pets to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing, while others provide dedicated areas such as pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels or lounges.
Be sure to check the rules before you travel, as some operators have restrictions on the type or number of pets you can bring. If your route offers cabins, kennels or lounges, we also recommend booking in advance, as these spots tend to fill up fast.
Our Deal Finder shows you all the available options, so you can choose the ferry crossing that best suits you and your pet's travel needs.
P&O Ferries:
DFDS Seaways:
Irish Ferries:
If you're traveling with a guide dog or assistance dog, we recommend informing the ferry operator or our customer service team at the time of booking.
Please ensure you carry all required documentation, as you may be asked to present this during check-in or while onboard.
Even where standard pet travel is not permitted, different rules may apply to guide and assistance dogs. You can confirm the specific requirements for your sailing by reaching out to our customer service team.
The Calais to Dover ferry is one of the most traveled sea crossings in the world, linking northern France with the Kent coast across the English Channel in one of the busiest shipping lanes on the planet. Although only a short crossing, there is a range of onboard facilities available to keep passengers occupied throughout the voyage.
The standard option across all operators on this route. Spacious enclosed passenger lounges with fixed or cushioned seating provide a comfortable base for the crossing. Given the short journey time, the majority of travelers find standard seating entirely adequate, and the large multi-deck vessels operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS offer considerably more space and comfort than smaller hydrofoils.
All major ferries on the Calais to Dover crossing have open-air deck areas providing great views of the White Cliffs of Dover. The open deck is a popular choice in calm, sunny conditions, though the English Channel can be windy even in summer and the exposed upper decks can be cold and uncomfortable for extended periods.
Both P&O Ferries and DFDS offer dedicated premium lounges with enhanced seating, a quieter environment, complimentary refreshments, and in some cases dedicated check-in lanes and priority boarding. A worthwhile upgrade for business travelers, families wanting a calmer space away from the busiest passenger areas, or anyone making a long drive on either side of the crossing who wants to arrive as rested as possible.
Full restaurant and self-service café facilities are a feature of the large car ferries operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS on this route. Hot meals, full English breakfasts, fish and chips, burgers, pasta, and a wide range of snacks and drinks are available throughout the crossing. For many travelers the onboard meal is a deliberate part of the journey rather than an afterthought, and the restaurants are typically busy on peak sailings. Arriving early onboard to secure a table is advisable on summer departures.
Onboard bars serving alcohol, soft drinks, and hot beverages are available on all major vessels, along with dedicated duty-free retail shops offering perfume, alcohol, confectionery, and tobacco at competitive prices. The duty-free shop remains a draw for many passengers making the crossing, particularly those traveling between the UK and France with allowances to take advantage of. Shops typically open shortly after departure and close before arrival.
Open upper decks are available on all ferries and offer expansive views across the Channel throughout the crossing. On clear days both the French and English coastlines are visible simultaneously from the upper deck, a reminder of just how narrow this stretch of water is despite its outsized importance as a shipping and travel corridor.
All services on the Calais to Dover route are car ferry operations, with vehicles loaded onto the lower vehicle decks and passengers directed to the upper passenger decks for the duration of the crossing. Passengers must leave their vehicles once loading is complete and are not permitted to return until the vessel has docked and vehicle deck access is reopened.
The larger vessels operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS include children's play areas, family lounges, and onboard entertainment options, making the Calais to Dover crossing one of the more family-friendly ferry routes in Europe. The crossing is short enough to be manageable with young children, and the combination of meal facilities, play areas, and open deck space gives families plenty to occupy themselves.
As a vehicle route, the majority of travelers keep their luggage in their cars for the duration of the crossing, bringing only a bag or personal items to the passenger decks. Foot passengers have access to designated luggage storage areas in the passenger saloons.
Traveling as a foot passenger on this route is less common than on many Mediterranean crossings but is straightforward, with good onward rail and coach connections from Dover Priory station for those continuing their journey without a vehicle.
You can get a direct ferry from Calais to Dover. Although flights are available too, getting a ferry is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel between Calais and Dover. Alternatively, you can take the Eurotunnel from Calais to Folkestone in approximately 35 minutes. From Folkestone, you can drive to London in 1 hour and 38 minutes via the M20.
Depending on the operator you choose, ferries offer much more flexibility, allowing you to bring your vehicle and pet along too. Plus, you can often take more luggage than you usually can on a plane. Traveling by ferry is also a relaxing and scenic experience, so you can arrive in Dover feeling refreshed and ready to explore!
If you wish to find out more information about traveling from France to England, visit our European travel advice guide.
How early you need to arrive at Calais ferry port depends on the ferry company you are traveling with and how you are traveling, so it's always best to check your booking confirmation in advance.
Calais is easy to navigate with clear signs directing you where to go. However, arriving early is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey, especially during the peak summer months.
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend arriving 45–60 minutes before departure if you're traveling as a foot passenger. If you're bringing a car or campervan, aim to arrive 60–90 minutes in advance to allow time for check-in and vehicle procedures.
Yes, parking is available at Calais port, so you don't need to worry about leaving your car behind. Most ports offer both short and long-term parking options close to the terminal, although it's a good idea to check availability in advance.
A large pay-and-display car park is located near the main ferry terminal, which is perfect for long stays.
If possible, we recommend pre-booking your space, as port car parks can fill up quickly, especially during the busy summer months or at weekends. There are also many other port facilities available.
If you're looking for accommodation near the port of Calais before your journey, be sure to check out our Accommodation page for the best deals and prices. You'll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets and travel styles.
Staying close to the port can make your journey much more relaxing – just wake up and head straight to your ferry! We recommend booking as early as possible to secure the lowest prices and availability, especially during peak travel periods when accommodation can fill up quickly.
Many ferry operators aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, but facilities can vary by ship. For more information, we recommend checking directly with the ferry operator you are traveling with.
Ferries are often equipped with facilities such as step-free access, accessible cabins and toilets and dedicated seating areas. If you require assistance on board, then make sure you let the ferry operator know well in advance, so they make any special arrangements to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible.
DFDS:
P&O Ferries:
Luggage allowances on ferries between Calais and Dover can vary depending on the operator. Whilst many ferries don't have strict limits, it's always best to check in advance, as larger or additional items may incur an extra fee. If you're traveling with a vehicle, you'll usually be able to bring more luggage with you.
| Operator | Included Luggage | Size Limit | Weight Limit | Notes / Extra Charges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P&O Ferries | Flexible | No strict dimensions | No official limit (must be self-carried) | Very generous policy; foot passengers must carry their own luggage while vehicle passengers keep luggage in car |
| DFDS | Flexible (no fixed number) | No strict dimensions | No official limit (must be self-carried) | No formal baggage allowance; practical limits depend on what you can carry onboard |
| Irish Ferries | Flexible | No strict dimensions | No official limit (must be self-carried) | No strict baggage policy; luggage is included in ticket as long as it can be handled by passenger |
Ferries to Dover from Calais arrive at the Eastern Docks ferry terminal, located at the foot of the famous White Cliffs of Dover. From the terminal, taxis and local buses are readily available if you wish to head into Dover town centre. For onward travel, Dover Priory railway station is a short taxi or bus ride away, with regular services to London and other destinations across the UK. For more information, check out our port guide below.
Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Calais to Dover, and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.
To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.
Booking your Calais to Dover ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.
The best time to book your Calais to Dover ferry is as early as possible, ideally a few weeks in advance if you want the widest choice of departure times and the best fares.
Booking ahead still pays off, though: prices tend to rise as sailings fill up, and early booking gives you a better choice of times, onboard seating and cabin availability (if you are sailing with Irish Ferries).
Aim to book at least 2-3 weeks ahead for the best rates, and further in advance (4-6 weeks or more) if you're traveling during French or UK school holidays, over Christmas, Easter, or on summer weekends, when demand and prices peak. Weekday and off-peak crossings are usually cheaper and less busy than weekend sailings.
If no sailings from Calais to Dover appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.
After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.
Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.
Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.
At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.
| Season | From price |
|---|---|
| Autumn (Sep - Nov) | $28 |
| Winter (Dec - Feb) | $28 |
| Spring (Mar - May) | $28 |
| Summer (Jun - Aug) | $28 |
*Based on a one-way trip with one adult
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $28 |
| Car | $60 |
| Cabin | $50 |
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| Calais - Dover Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $72 | |
| Average Price with Car | $179 | |
| Average Price with Motorcycle | $100 | |
| Average Cabin Price | $296 | |
| Calais - Dover Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | France |
| Destination | England |
| No. of Operators | 3 |
| Operators | Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries & DFDS Seaways |
| Average Price | $190 |
| Average Pet Price | $290 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 31 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 211 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 1 h 35 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 1 h 30 m |
| First Ferry | 00:10 |
| Last Ferry | 23:00 |
| Distance | 33 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 19 October 2026.
Calais is France's main cross-Channel port, located on the northern coast of France at its closest point to England, and the departure point for ferries from Calais to the United Kingdom. The port offers frequent connections to Dover, making the Calais to Dover crossing the busiest and most popular ferry route across the English Channel.
Important: DFDS and Irish Ferries do not carry foot passengers on this route. Only P&O Ferries currently allows passengers to travel without a vehicle, and foot passenger space can be limited, so always confirm with the operator before booking if you don't have a car.
Address: Calais Car Ferry Terminal, 285 Avenue du Mérité Maritime, 62100 Calais, France
Calais's port is built primarily around vehicle traffic, so it's worth knowing what to expect if you're driving, and what your options are if you're not.
Calais has one main passenger ferry terminal, the Car Ferry Terminal, used by all three operators sailing to Dover. It's separate from the Eurotunnel Terminal at Coquelles, which handles train crossings rather than ferries, and from the city's commercial port facilities.
Dover is England's busiest ferry port and the main gateway for ferries from Dover to mainland Europe. Located in Kent on England's southeast coast, at the narrowest point of the English Channel, the port offers frequent connections to Calais, as well as services to Dunkirk, making it one of the busiest passenger ports in Europe, handling around 13 million passengers a year.
Address: Port of Dover, Eastern Docks, Dover, Kent CT16 1JA, United Kingdom
Dover's port is split into distinct zones, and knowing the layout in advance makes a big difference to how smoothly your crossing starts.
Dover's port has one working ferry area, Eastern Docks, used by all three operators sailing to Calais and Dunkirk. The separate Western Docks terminal handles cruise ships and the marina rather than cross-Channel ferries. There's no need to choose between ferry terminals here, but it's worth confirming you're headed for Eastern Docks and not the cruise terminal if you're arriving by taxi or rideshare.
Expert tip: Dover Priory, the town's only train station, is about 1.2 miles (2 km) from Eastern Docks and not within easy walking distance with luggage. A local bus (route 66) connects the station to the port, or you can take a taxi.
Calais is a historic port city on France's northern coast, long shaped by its role as the closest French point to England, just 21 miles across the Channel at the narrowest crossing point. Though many travelers pass straight through on their way to or from the ferry, the city has enough history and coastline to reward a short stop.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall (May to September) brings the mildest weather for exploring the coast and headlands. Winters are cool, damp and windy, in keeping with the town's exposed Channel-coast location, though ferries run year-round regardless of season.
Dover is a historic port town on England's southeast coast, famous for its iconic white chalk cliffs and its centuries-long role as the country's front line against invasion from the Continent. As the busiest ferry port in England, it's also a natural starting point for a cross-Channel trip, with plenty to see if you build in time before or after your crossing.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the best weather for the clifftop walks and coastal views Dover is known for. Winters are cool and often windy, typical of England's southeast coast, though ferry sailings continue year-round.
