Ferries to France from Portsmouth: Why This Port is Your Best Option
If you’re planning a trip across the Channel, Portsmouth is hands down the most versatile ferry port in the UK for travelling to France.
Located on the south coast of England, it offers multiple direct crossings to some of northern France’s most popular coastal destinations, including Caen, Cherbourg, Le Havre, and St Malo.
Whether you’re driving, walking on as a foot passenger, or travelling with your pet, Portsmouth gives you more options, greater flexibility, and shorter travel times compared to other UK ports.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through:
- Detailed ferry timetables and crossing durations
- Up-to-date pricing examples for 2025
- Tips on how to book the cheapest fares
- Pet travel rules and onboard kennel options
- What travel documents you need post-Brexit
- What to expect onboard, including cabins, food, and facilities
- Insider advice to help you choose the best route based on your destination and travel style
- Day sailings: Standard seats are included, but you can upgrade to private cabins if desired
- Night sailings: Cabins are strongly recommended — available in 2, 3, or 4-berth formats, including pet-friendly cabins
- Cabins come with ensuite bathrooms, bedding, towels, and air conditioning
- Self-service restaurants and cafes offer hot meals, snacks, sandwiches, and drinks
- Some ships include à la carte restaurants and bars
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options available
- Onboard shops offer duty-free alcohol, tobacco, perfume, cosmetics, and gifts
- Prices are often cheaper than airports (subject to allowances)
- Kids’ play areas, video game zones, and children’s entertainment (on some crossings)
- Free Wi-Fi zones available for an hour (though limited in speed offshore)
- Lounge spaces for relaxing or watching the sea
- Cinemas on certain routes
- Free onboard video on demand on some routes
- Passport checks on all passengers
- Random vehicle inspections
- Customs declarations if bringing high-value goods, alcohol, or tobacco
- Schengen border entry stamp
- Passport checks
- No visa required for stays under 90 days in a 180-day period
We’ve personally taken each of these crossings from Portsmouth to France, and this guide is based on first-hand experience, real traveller feedback, and expert-reviewed route comparisons.
If you’re also considering other travel options, check out our guides on ferries from the UK to France, Portsmouth to Caen in detail, or tips for first-time ferry travellers.
Whether you’re heading to Brittany for a holiday, Normandy for a short break, or driving down to the south of France, this article will help you make an informed and stress-free choice when booking a ferry from Portsmouth to France.
Compare Portsmouth to France Ferry Prices (2025)
| Route | From Price One Way | Book |
|---|---|---|
| Portsmouth to Caen | £54 (Car + 2) | Book Now |
| Portsmouth to Cherbourg | £54 (Car + 2) | Book Now |
| Portsmouth to Le Havre | £54 (Car + 2) | Book Now |
| Portsmouth to St Malo | £100.50 (Car + 2) | Book Now |
*Prices are based on typical low-season 2025 one way fare for a car and two adults. Subject to change — check live availability for your dates.
Ferry Routes from Portsmouth to France
Portsmouth serves four primary ferry routes to France, all operated by Brittany Ferries. Each destination offers different advantages depending on where you’re heading in France, your budget, and your preferred sailing time.
Here’s a quick overview of the ferry routes available:
Route Comparison
| Destination | Sailing Duration | Operator | Foot Passenger Friendly | Best For | From Price One Way |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caen (Ouistreham) | 6 hours | Brittany Ferries | ✅ Yes | Central France, families | From £54 for a car and 2 passengers |
| Cherbourg | 5.5–9 hours (day/night) | Brittany Ferries | ✅ Yes | Southwest France, flexible timing | From £54 for a car and 2 passengers |
| Le Havre | 6 hours | Brittany Ferries | ❌ No | Normandy & Paris access | From £54 for a car and 2 passengers |
| St Malo | 11 hours (overnight) | Brittany Ferries | ✅ Yes | Holidays to Brittany | From £100.50 for a car and 2 passengers |
All routes support vehicle travel, including cars, caravans, campervans, and bikes. If you’re planning to drive in France, see our post-Brexit driving checklist.
Portsmouth to France Ferry Timetables & Frequency
Ferry departure times vary throughout the week, so it’s important to check the schedule before booking. Below you’ll find the current weekly timetables for each Portsmouth to France route, including day and night sailings.
These are based on typical sailings and may vary slightly seasonally or during holidays.
Weekly Timetable Sailing Timetable
| Route | Days | Departure Times | Arrival Times | Duration | Sailings per Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portsmouth to Caen | Daily | 08:00, 15:00, 23:00 | 15:00, 22:00, 06:45 | 6 hrs | 21 sailings |
| Portsmouth to Cherbourg | Mon, Wed, Fri | 12:30 (day), 22:00 (night) | 19:00, 08:00 | 5.5–9 hrs | 3 sailings |
| Portsmouth to Le Havre | Daily | 11:30 | 18:30 | 6 hrs | 7 sailings |
| Portsmouth to St Malo | Daily (except Tue) | 20:15 (night) | 08:15 (next day) | 11 hrs | 6 sailings |
We recommend booking night ferries in advance, especially during school holidays. For real-time updates and seasonal changes, see the official Brittany Ferries sailing schedule.
Ferry Prices from Portsmouth to France (What to Expect in 2025)
Ferry prices from Portsmouth to France vary depending on the route, time of year, vehicle type, cabin selection, and whether you’re travelling as a foot passenger or with a car. While ferries aren’t always cheaper than flights, they offer more flexibility — especially if you’re travelling with a family, pets, or planning a road trip across France.
Below is a pricing guide based on typical 2025 fares, to help you plan your budget.
Price Comparison Table (Typical One-Way Fares)
Prices can vary depending on the season, route, and whether you’re travelling on foot or with a vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of typical one-way fares for 2025 so you can plan your budget accordingly.
| Route | Foot Passenger (From) | Car + 2 Adults (From) | Cabin Optional? | Pets Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portsmouth to Caen | £22 | £54 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Portsmouth to Cherbourg | £22 | £54 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Portsmouth to Le Havre | £22 | £54 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Portsmouth to St Malo | £22 | £100.50 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Prices are lowest midweek, in low season (Jan–March, Nov), and when booked in advance. Don’t forget that cabin prices typically add £35–£120 per cabin (depending on size and route).
Make sure that when you book your ferry you book early to save money. Brittany Ferries opens schedules up to 11 months in advance. Also avoid peak weekends & school holidays for lower fares if you can and look for short-break returns (sometimes cheaper than one-way)
What to Expect Onboard Brittany Ferries
Whether you’re sailing during the day or overnight, Brittany Ferries offers comfortable, modern ships with a range of onboard facilities designed to make your journey enjoyable — especially for families, pet owners, and long-distance travellers.
Here’s what to expect when you step aboard:
Cabins & Seating Options
Food & Drink
Duty-Free & Shopping
Enjoy duty free shopping, snacks and treat in the onboard shops.
Family & Entertainment
All ships have trained staff, medical assistance, and accessibility facilities for those with reduced mobility. For more details, see our guide Brittany Ferries cabins.
How to Book Your Ferry from Portsmouth to France (Step-by-Step)
Booking a ferry from Portsmouth to France is straightforward, but a few tips can save you time and money. You can book directly via Brittany Ferries or through comparison platforms — but the direct route is often best if you’ve chosen a specific sailing.
Step-by-Step Booking Guide
| Step | What to Do | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Choose Your Route | Select Caen, Cherbourg, Le Havre or St Malo based on your final destination in France | See our route comparison table |
| 2. Decide How You’ll Travel | Pick car, foot, motorbike, or campervan. Don’t forget to add pets or bikes | Tick “pet in vehicle” if applicable |
| 3. Select Travel Dates & Times | Look at day vs night sailings — prices and comfort vary | Night crossings save on hotel costs |
| 4. Choose Accommodation | Pick a cabin or standard seating (especially important on overnight routes) | Cabins sell out early during summer |
| 5. Enter Passenger Info | Add details for everyone travelling, including pets | Make sure names match passport exactly |
| 6. Review & Pay | Check everything before you confirm. Look for discount codes or ferry club offers | Print or save your confirmation email for check-in |
Direct bookings via Brittany Ferries offer the best access to cabins, pet spaces, and modifications. Although comparison sites like Direct Ferries or Aferry may show more prices quickly, we would always suggest you book direct.
Travel Documents & Requirements for Ferries to France (2025 Update)
Since the UK’s departure from the EU, travelling to France by ferry requires a few additional documents and checks.
Whether you’re a foot passenger, driver, or travelling with pets, make sure you have the right paperwork in order before you board.
This section covers exactly what you’ll need — clearly and concisely — so there are no surprises at the port.
Essential Documents for UK Travellers
There are a few extra travel requirements when taking the ferry to France. This table summarises exactly what documents you’ll need depending on how you’re travelling.
| Document | Who Needs It | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | All passengers | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. No longer accepted if expired. ID cards are not valid for UK citizens. |
| Ferry Ticket / Booking Confirmation | All passengers | Printed or digital version accepted. Bring your booking reference. |
| Vehicle Registration Document (V5C) | Drivers | Must be original — not a photocopy. Required for driving in France. |
| Motor Insurance Certificate | Drivers | UK insurance must provide third-party cover in France (green cards no longer required). |
| UK Sticker | Drivers | If your car doesn’t have a UK identifier on the number plate, you’ll need a physical sticker. |
| Travel Insurance | Recommended for all | Make sure it covers health emergencies, ferry cancellations, and driving abroad. |
Travelling with Pets
If you’re bringing a dog or cat to France, you must follow the mandatory post-Brexit rules to ensure smooth travel and avoid being refused boarding.
Animal Health Certificate (AHC) – This must be issued by a vet within 10 days of travel and replaces the old pet passport system. Expect to pay around £100–£150.
Microchip – Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant, readable chip before travel.
Rabies Vaccination – All pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. This applies even if your pet has been vaccinated before.
Tapeworm Treatment – This is only required when returning to the UK from France. It must be administered by a vet within 5 days before re-entry.
During the crossing, pets must remain in either onboard kennels or pet-friendly cabins. Most operators, including Brittany Ferries, allow scheduled visits to check on your animals.
Border Control & Customs
When it comes to border controls and checks please note that at the Portsmouth terminal you’ll expect the following:
At the French port (e.g., Caen, Cherbourg, St Malo or Le Havre):
Tip: UK nationals do not need a visa for short holidays, but keep track of your time spent in the EU if travelling regularly.
Please note that if you’re travelling with children not accompanied by both legal guardians, you may need a consent letter. This is rarely checked but can be requested at border control.
Arriving in France: What to Expect & Driving Tips
Once you’ve crossed the Channel and disembarked in France, your journey doesn’t end at the port. Whether you’re heading straight to your holiday home, exploring the coast, or driving into mainland Europe, knowing what to expect upon arrival can save time, stress, and unnecessary delays.
This section covers what happens at French ports, practical driving info, and essential tips for a smooth onward journey.
Disembarkation & French Port Facilities
Each French port offers a slightly different arrival experience. This guide shows what to expect when you step off the ferry, along with the facilities available at each terminal.
| Arrival Port | Arrival Experience | Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|
| Caen (Ouistreham) | Small and efficient terminal, usually fast exit | Toilets, taxis, car hire desks |
| Cherbourg | Larger terminal, good signage, sometimes busy in summer | Cafes, Wi-Fi, transport options |
| Le Havre | Industrial feel but simple layout | Bus and taxi access to city |
| St Malo | Scenic arrival near the old town, but parking can be tight | Close to hotels, restaurants, city walls |
After disembarking, expect passport checks and possibly random customs inspection — especially if bringing alcohol, tobacco, or valuable goods.
Driving in France: Key Tips for UK Travellers
Driving in France isn’t difficult, but there are some key differences UK drivers should know. Here’s a quick reference for the most important rules, equipment requirements, and speed limits.
| Driving Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive on the right | Always remember — especially at roundabouts and junctions. |
| Headlight beam deflectors | Required by law if your car has UK-spec lights. |
| Hi-vis jacket, warning triangle & breathalyser | Legally required to carry. |
| Speed limits | 130 km/h (dry motorway), 110 km/h (wet), 50 km/h in towns. |
| Motorway tolls (péages) | Most motorways are tolled — bring a credit card or consider a Télépéage device. |
| Fuel stations | Many rural stations close on Sundays or late evenings. 24/7 card pumps are common. |
| Parking | Pay-and-display is standard. Blue badge holders may use EU-designated spaces. |
Download the “Sanef Liber-t” app if planning to use toll roads frequently — it makes payment faster and more convenient.
Don’t forget to take a look at our driving in France kit article which covers the items you’ll be required to carry when you drive in France along with some helpful hints, tips and rules of the road.
Distances from Arrival Ports (to Key French Destinations)
Knowing the driving distances from your arrival port can help you plan your route and overnight stops. The table below shows approximate journey times to popular French destinations.
| From Port | Paris | Loire Valley | Bordeaux | Mont-Saint-Michel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caen | ~2.5 hrs | ~3 hrs | ~6 hrs | ~1 hr |
| Cherbourg | ~3.5 hrs | ~3 hrs | ~7 hrs | ~1.5 hrs |
| Le Havre | ~2.25 hrs | ~3 hrs | ~6.5 hrs | ~2 hrs |
| St Malo | ~4 hrs | ~2.5 hrs | ~6 hrs | ~1 hr |
If you’re travelling with young kids or pets, consider splitting your journey with an overnight stop at a Chambres d’Hôtes (B&B), which are common throughout France and often pet-friendly.
Expert Tips for First-Time Ferry Travellers
Whether you’re crossing the Channel for the first time or haven’t taken a ferry since childhood, there are a few simple tips that can make your journey smoother, cheaper, and more enjoyable. These are based on our first hand experiences over the years.
-
Arrive Early — But Not Too Early
Ferry terminals typically open check-in about 90 minutes before departure. Aim to arrive 60–90 minutes beforehand. Arriving too early can mean waiting in your car; arriving too late risks missing boarding — even if the ship hasn’t left.
Tip: Use the toilet and grab a snack before entering the vehicle lanes. -
Pack Essentials in a Small Bag
You can’t access your car once parked on the ferry, so bring a carry-on with passports, tickets, snacks, water, medication, phone chargers, and entertainment for kids. -
Book a Cabin on Overnight Sailings
For night crossings, cabins are worth it for privacy, beds with linen, and ensuite bathrooms. They ensure a quieter journey — especially with children or pets.
Pet-friendly cabins sell out fast — book early. -
Choose Your Route Based on Your Destination
Each French port serves different areas:
• Caen – Paris and central France
• St Malo – Brittany holidays
• Le Havre – Quick motorway access
• Cherbourg – Longer drives south
Use our Route Comparison Table to match your trip. -
Don’t Forget These Easy-to-Miss Items
• UK car sticker – Required if driving in France
• Headlamp deflectors – Adjust UK headlights for right-hand driving
• Travel insurance – Covers cancellations, accidents, medical costs
• Snacks for kids – Onboard food can be pricey or limited off-peak -
Motion Sickness Tips
• Book a midship cabin for less movement
• Take seasickness tablets 30–60 mins before sailing
• Look at the horizon through a window
• Avoid heavy meals before boarding
Most ferries on these routes are large and stable — rough crossings are rare outside of winter storms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ferries from Portsmouth to France
What is the fastest ferry route from Portsmouth to France?
The fastest crossing is the Portsmouth to Cherbourg day sailing, which takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. It operates on Fridays and is ideal if you want to arrive in France by early evening.
Which Portsmouth to France ferry is best for families?
The Portsmouth to Caen route is best for families. It offers multiple sailings per day, a shorter driving distance to central France, and excellent onboard facilities including cabins, restaurants, and family areas.
Can you travel from Portsmouth to France as a foot passenger?
Yes, foot passengers are accepted on all routes — including Caen, Cherbourg, St Malo and Le Havre.
Are there overnight ferries from Portsmouth to France?
Yes. There are overnight sailings to Cherbourg, Caen, and St Malo. These typically depart between 20:00 and 23:00 and arrive in France the following morning.
How much does a ferry from Portsmouth to France cost?
Prices vary depending on route, travel date, and ticket type. As of 2025:
- Foot passenger fares start from £22
- Car + 2 adults from £54
- Cabins add £35–£90 per trip
Can I take my dog or cat on the ferry to France?
Yes, pets are welcome on all routes. You’ll need to book a pet-friendly cabin or kennel, and travel with an Animal Health Certificate, microchip, and up-to-date rabies vaccination.
Do I need a passport for a ferry to France?
Yes, UK citizens must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining beyond your return date. EU ID cards are no longer accepted.
Is there food available onboard the ferries?
Yes, all Brittany Ferries vessels offer cafés, restaurants, and bars. You’ll find hot meals, snacks, and drinks. Dietary needs like vegetarian and gluten-free are typically catered for.
Conclusion: Which Portsmouth to France Ferry Should You Choose?
Travelling from Portsmouth to France by ferry is one of the easiest, most flexible, and scenic ways to cross the Channel — especially if you’re bringing your car, travelling with pets, or just want to avoid airports.
We’ve taken these routes ourselves, spoken to regular ferry travellers, and compiled this guide to help you compare prices, understand timetables, and plan a smooth journey — whether it’s your first ferry trip or your tenth.
Key Takeaways
- Book early to get the best fares, especially for cabins and pets
- Choose your route based on your final destination in France
- Don’t forget required documents: passports, pet health certificates, driving kit
- Bring essentials onboard — you can’t access your car during the sailing
- Consider night sailings to save on accommodation and maximise travel time
If you’re ready to book click on the button below to find and book your perfect ferry from Portsmouth to France.
