Dover to Calais Ferry Tickets, Prices & Timetable
With Irish Ferries, you can enjoy great service and comfortable facilities with up to 20 sailings a day between Dover and Calais ports with the Oscar Wilde and Isle of Inishmore ships.
How much do Dover to Calais ferry tickets cost?
Our great-value fares for the Dover – Calais route start from £44 for a 1 day return for a car plus up to 5 passengers. Prices vary depending on the travel date, time of day and vehicle type. For the best value, we recommend booking early to secure the lowest available fare.
Where can I find the cheapest Dover to Calais ferry tickets?
The best value fares are always found by booking direct on the official Irish Ferries website www.irishferries.com or the Irish Ferries mobile app. Travelling off-peak, mid-week or late in the evening often provides the cheapest ticket options. Special offers are available throughout the year, and are displayed automatically during your booking.
What are the ferry times from Dover to Calais?
We operate frequent daily sailings between Dover and Calais, with departures running from early morning to late evening. All live sailing times, availability and up-to-date timetables are shown in our online booking system.
How long is the ferry from Dover to Calais?
The crossing takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a fast and convenient way to travel between the UK and France.
Travel Options on the Dover–Calais Route
Can I bring my car on the ferry from Dover to Calais?
Absolutely. We accommodate motorbikes, cars, SUVs, vans and minibuses of various heights and lengths. Your vehicle will be securely parked on board while you enjoy the ship’s facilities.
Can I take a campervan or caravan on the ferry?
Yes — campervans, motorhomes and caravans are fully supported on our Dover–Calais sailings. Please ensure the correct vehicle dimensions are entered when booking for a smooth check-in experience.
Pets, Assistance Animals & Accessibility
Can I bring my pet on the ferry from Dover to Calais?
Yes — we are proud to welcome pets on board. Dogs, cats and other small animals can travel comfortably onboard our ships in our dedicated Pet Den lounge area, or in your vehicle. Options for booking pet facilities will be provided during booking.
Do you accept assistance dogs on the Dover–Calais route?
Yes. Registered assistance dogs travel free of charge and are permitted in all passenger areas. Please bring the required travel documentation for both UK and EU entry requirements.
Is the ferry accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Our ships include:
- dedicated wheelchair-accessible spaces
- lifts between decks
- accessible toilets
- priority boarding options
If you require assistance, please let us know during booking so we can support you throughout your journey.
Planning Your Trip
Can I do a day trip from Dover to Calais?
Yes — with a short 90-minute crossing and frequent sailings, a day trip to France is easy and popular. Simply book your outbound and return sailings for the same day.
Can I just turn up at Dover and get on a ferry?
We recommend booking in advance, especially during busy travel periods. Turning up without a booking is possible but subject to space availability.
Is the ferry or Eurotunnel cheaper?
Many travellers find our ferry to be the better-value option thanks to competitive fares, onboard facilities, the ability to relax during the crossing and the flexibility to change travel times. The ferry is also pet-friendly, with no restrictions on pet-accessible areas.
How early should I arrive for my Dover–Calais sailing?
We recommend arriving at least 1 hour before departure for standard vehicles and 90 minutes before if travelling with pets or requiring assistance.
Is there parking at Dover port?
Yes — Dover port offers secure, short- and long-stay parking options just a short walk from the Irish Ferries check-in area. Charges vary by duration.
How much luggage can I take?
There is no strict luggage limit when travelling with a vehicle.
How long does it take to disembark?
Disembarkation typically takes 10–20 minutes depending on vehicle type and port traffic. Our crew will guide you when it’s time to return to your vehicle.