How long is the ferry from Dover to Calais?
The Dover to Calais ferry takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to get from England to France. Only 2 companies operate services upon the route. The Dover Calais ferry routes are the quickest and most popular way to cross the English Channel by ferry with over 9 million passengers travelling on the routes in 2018 alone.
How far is it from Dover to Calais?
It is approximately 27 nautical miles or 31 standard miles from Dover ferry port to Calais ferry port. Although it’s the shortest sailing to France it’s not the shortest point between the two countries. The shortest distance across the English Channel is from South Foreland in Kent to Cap Gris Nez in France. The distance between the two points is around, 20.7 miles or 18 nautical miles. Furthermore, because it’s the shortest distance it is also used by those attempting to swim across the channel.
Can you see France from England?
On a clear day, you can quite easily see France from England and vice versa with the naked eye. One of the most famous sights that can be seen from France is the white cliffs of Dover. The cliffs are 350 ft high and stand out because of the white chalk which is combined with streaks of black flint. With binoculars or a telescope, you can quite easily make out, houses and other buildings on the opposite shore.
Which companies operate the sailings?
The sailings are currently operated by P&O Ferries and DFDS Seaways. They currently offer a combined total of 38 sailings per day which provide you with a vast choice in travelling times and prices. P&O Ferries offers up to 23 sailings per day whilst DFDS offers slightly less with up to 15.
When is the first crossing from Dover to Calais?
The first crossing from Dover to Calais is at 00:45 in the morning. Both P&O Ferries and DFDS Seaways offer the early crossings which are popular with those wanting to get an early start.
When is the last crossing from Dover to Calais?
The last crossing from Dover to Calais is at 23:05 or 11:05pm with DFDS Seaways and 23:45 or 11:45pm with P&O Ferries. The two times offer travellers fantastic options when deciding on which times to choose.
DFDS Dover Calais Timetable
DFDS departure times do vary throughout the year and so we have listed below all of the possible times you can travel on their service. You must remember however that all sailing times are not available on all days. Here is the timetable for DFDS Seaways:
- Departure 00:45
- Departure 02:40
- Departure 04:10
- Departure 05:50
- Departure 07:40
- Departure 09:10
- Departure 10:35
- Departure 12:25
- Departure 13:45
- Departure 15:10
- Departure 17:00
- Departure 18:20
- Departure 19:50
- Departure 21:35
- Departure 23:05
P&O Dover Calais Timetable
P&O Ferries departure times do vary throughout the year. We have listed below all of the possible times you can travel on their service. You must remember however that all sailing times are not available on all days. Here is the timetable for DFDS Seaways:
- Departure 00:45
- Departure 01:00
- Departure 02:05
- Departure 02:25
- Departure 03:20
- Departure 03:40
- Departure 04:20
- Departure 04:50
- Departure 05:30
- Departure 06:30
- Departure 06:40
- Departure 07:25
- Departure 07:40
- Departure 08:25
- Departure 08:45
- Departure 09:25
- Departure 09:55
- Departure 10:15
- Departure 11:10
- Departure 12:05
- Departure 12:55
- Departure 13:55
- Departure 14:45
- Departure 15:30
- Departure 15:40
- Departure 16:40
- Departure 17:25
- Departure 17:45
- Departure 18:35
- Departure 18:45
- Departure 19:15
- Departure 20:05
- Departure 20:15
- Departure 21:20
- Departure 21:25
- Departure 22:05
- Departure 22:25
- Departure 23:15
- Departure 23:20
- Departure 23:45
What time should you check-in for the ferry?
Both DFDS and P&O have strict rules when it comes to checking-in. Foot passengers must arrive for the ferry at least 60 minutes before departure and vehicle drivers must arrive at least 45 minutes before departure.
If you think for any minute whilst travelling to the terminal that you may not meet these times you must contact your ferry company immediately. Both companies are very helpful and should you be unable to make your departure time they will endeavor to help you. They can and often will allow you to transfer your ticket to the next sailing without charge. With so many sailings per day you’ll find the you will quite easily be able to alter your journey to suit your needs.
What is the best way to get cheap ferry tickets!
The best way to get cheap ferry tickets is by following the steps below.
1) Avoid peak times by travelling out of school holidays, in the afternoon and overnight.
2) Travel on weekdays and not at weekends when ferries are busier.
3) Book in advance to get bigger discounts.
4) Look out for special offers and discounts that are available throughout the year.
If you would like to find out some more about the Dover to Calais ferry crossing or if you would like to book tickets please visit our crossings page. If you have more questions you can take a look at our Dover to Calais FAQ’s.
