Dover to Calais ferry approaching the iconic White Cliffs on the busiest cross-Channel route

Dover to Calais Ferry Guide

Europe's busiest ferry crossing with over 10 million passengers annually. 90-minute journey across the English Channel with up to 23 daily departures.

Crossing Time

90 minutes

Daily Departures

Up to 23

Operators

P&O Ferries, DFDS

Distance

21 miles (34 km)

Most Popular High Frequency Day Trips Short Crossing

Dover-Calais ferry terminal and crossing experience showing efficient operations

The Dover-Calais Experience

The Dover-Calais route is renowned for its efficiency and frequency, offering unmatched flexibility for both leisure and business travelers. With state-of-the-art terminals and modern vessels, this route sets the standard for short-sea ferry operations.

Fastest cross-Channel route at just 90 minutes

Maximum frequency with departures every 90 minutes at peak

Ideal for same-day returns and spontaneous travel

Ferry Operator Comparison

P&O Ferries

Market Leader

4.0/5

Up to 23 daily departures
Industry-leading punctuality
Competitive pricing
Efficient operations

Best for: Schedule flexibility, day trips, commercial transport, budget-conscious travel

View P&O Ferries Review

DFDS

Enhanced Comfort

4.3/5

Enhanced onboard amenities
Superior family facilities
Improved dining options
Comfortable passenger areas

Best for: Onboard comfort, families with children, enhanced crossing experience

View DFDS Review

Terminal Information

Dover Ferry Terminal (UK)

Address & Location

Eastern Docks, Dover, Kent CT16 1JA, UK

Transport Connections

• Direct A2/M2 motorway access
• Dover Priory Railway Station (1.5 miles)
• Local bus services
• Extensive parking facilities

Check-in Requirements

• Vehicle passengers: 90 minutes before
• Foot passengers: 60 minutes before
• Peak season: Allow extra time

Terminal Facilities

• Restaurants and cafés
• Duty-free shopping
• Currency exchange
• Family facilities
• WiFi access

Calais Ferry Terminal (France)

Address & Location

Port de Calais, 62100 Calais, France

Transport Connections

• Direct A26 autoroute access
• Calais-Ville Railway Station
• Local bus and taxi services
• Vehicle exit directly to roads

Onward Travel

• Paris: 3 hours via A26
• Brussels: 90 minutes via A26
• Lille: 90 minutes via A26
• Amsterdam: 4 hours via A16/E19

Port Facilities

• Immigration and customs
• Tourist information
• Currency exchange
• Car rental services
• Emergency services

Booking Optimization Tips

Best Booking Times

• Summer travel: 6-8 weeks ahead
• Shoulder season: 4-6 weeks ahead
• Winter travel: 2-4 weeks ahead
• Last-minute: Check for deals

Money-Saving Tips

• Mid-week departures cheaper
• Early/late departures save money
• Round-trip bookings offer savings
• Monitor promotional offers

Peak Season Tips

• Book early for summer travel
• Avoid school holiday dates
• Consider alternative times
• Allow extra terminal time

Practical Travel Information

Documentation Required

Post-Brexit Requirements

• Valid passport required
• Minimum 6 months validity
• No visa required for tourism up to 90 days

Vehicle Travel

• Valid driving license
• Vehicle registration documents
• Valid insurance for European travel
• Consider breakdown cover

Onboard Information

Crossing Comfort

• 90-minute journey time
• Restaurants and cafés available
• Duty-free shopping
• WiFi on most vessels

Family Facilities

• Children's play areas
• Baby changing facilities
• Family-friendly dining
• Buggy-friendly access