Travel from England to France with Irish Ferries' Dover to Calais ferry service, offering up to 20 daily sailings and a fast, convenient crossing aboard the Isle of Inishmore and Oscar Wilde. Whether you're travelling with a car, campervan, motorcycle, pet, or on a day trip to France, Irish Ferries provides flexible sailing times, competitive fares, and excellent onboard facilities.
How Much Do Dover to Calais Ferry Tickets Cost?
Dover to Calais ferry tickets with Irish Ferries start from just £44 for a same-day return journey, including a car and up to five passengers.
Fares vary depending on:
- Travel dates
- Sailing times
- Vehicle type
- Route demand
- Seasonal availability
For the lowest prices, book early and travel during quieter periods where possible.
Where Can I Find Cheap Dover to Calais Ferry Tickets?
The cheapest Dover to Calais ferry fares are available when booking directly through:
- www.irishferries.com
- The Irish Ferries mobile app
To secure the best value:
- Travel midweek where possible
- Choose off-peak sailings
- Consider evening departures
- Book in advance
Any available promotions or special offers are automatically applied during the booking process.
Dover to Calais Ferry Timetable
What Are the Ferry Times from Dover to Calais?
Irish Ferries operates frequent crossings throughout the day, with departures running from early morning until late evening.
With up to 20 sailings daily, passengers enjoy flexible travel options whether travelling for business, leisure, holidays, or short breaks in France.
For the latest Dover to Calais ferry timetable, live availability, and sailing schedules, visit our online booking system.
How Long Is the Dover to Calais Ferry Crossing?
The Dover to Calais ferry crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
The short journey makes travelling between the UK and northern France quick, convenient, and stress-free.
Travelling with a Vehicle on the Dover to Calais Ferry
Can I Bring My Car on the Dover to Calais Ferry?
Yes. Irish Ferries accommodates a wide range of vehicles, including:
- Cars
- SUVs
- Motorcycles
- Vans
- Minibuses
Vehicles remain securely parked on the car deck while passengers enjoy onboard facilities during the crossing.
Can I Take a Campervan, Motorhome or Caravan?
Absolutely.
Our Dover to Calais ferries welcome:
- Campervans
- Motorhomes
- Caravans
- Touring vehicles
To ensure smooth check-in and boarding, please enter accurate vehicle measurements when making your booking.
Can I travel by foot on the route?
Unfortunately, for operational reasons, we do not at this time take foot passengers or cyclists on the route.
Travelling with Pets on the Dover to Calais Ferry
Can I Bring My Pet on the Ferry to France?
Yes. Irish Ferries is proud to offer a pet-friendly Dover to Calais ferry service.
Dogs, cats, and other small pets can travel comfortably either:
- In your vehicle
- In the dedicated Pet Den lounge
Pet travel options can be selected during the booking process.
Do Assistance Dogs Travel on the Dover to Calais Route?
Yes.
Registered assistance dogs travel free of charge and are welcome in all passenger areas on board.
Passengers travelling with assistance dogs should ensure they have the necessary UK and EU travel documentation before departure.
Accessibility and Assisted Travel
Is the Dover to Calais Ferry Accessible?
Yes. Irish Ferries is committed to providing accessible travel for all passengers.
Our ships feature:
- Wheelchair-accessible seating areas
- Passenger lifts between decks
- Accessible toilets
- Priority boarding assistance
If assistance is required, please notify us during booking so our team can support your journey from check-in to arrival.
Planning Your Dover to Calais Trip
Can I Do a Day Trip to France from Dover?
Yes.
The short 90-minute crossing and frequent departures make a Dover to Calais day trip straightforward and popular with travellers looking to explore northern France.
Simply book an outbound and return sailing on the same day.
Can I Turn Up and Buy a Ferry Ticket at Dover Port?
While tickets may be available on the day, advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly during:
- School holidays
- Bank holiday weekends
- Summer travel periods
Availability for travel without a reservation cannot be guaranteed.
Is the Ferry Cheaper Than the Eurotunnel?
Many travellers find the Dover to Calais ferry offers excellent value thanks to:
- Competitive fares
- Comfortable onboard facilities
- Flexible travel options
- Pet-friendly travel arrangements
- Freedom to relax during the crossing
The best choice depends on your travel requirements, vehicle type, and preferred travel experience.
How Early Should I Arrive for My Ferry?
We recommend arriving:
- At least 1 hour before departure for standard vehicle bookings
- 90 minutes before departure when travelling with pets or requesting special assistance
This allows sufficient time for check-in, security procedures, and boarding.
Is There Parking at Dover Port?
Yes.
Dover Port offers both short-stay and long-stay parking facilities located close to the Irish Ferries terminal. Parking charges vary depending on the duration of your stay.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring?
Passengers travelling with a vehicle can bring their luggage with them in the vehicle. There is no strict baggage allowance for vehicle bookings.
How Long Does It Take to Disembark?
Disembarkation usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic levels, vehicle type, and port operations.
Passengers will be advised by the onboard crew when it is time to return to their vehicles before arrival.
Book Your Dover to Calais Ferry Today
Book directly with Irish Ferries for great-value Dover to Calais ferry tickets, flexible sailing times, pet-friendly travel options, and comfortable onboard facilities. Check the latest fares, timetables, and availability online and start planning your journey to France today.