Dover to Calais Ferry vs Eurotunnel, Which Is Best?
If you’re planning a trip across the Channel and can’t decide between the Dover to Calais ferry and Eurotunnel, you’re not alone. Both options are popular with travelers, but which one is right for you?
Depending on your priorities, speed, cost, comfort, or flexibility, one may suit you better than the other. This article will compare the Dover to Calais Ferry vs Eurotunnel to help you make the best choice for your trip.
Travel Time
If you need to get to France quickly, the Eurotunnel is the fastest way to cross the Channel. The train takes just 35 minutes to travel from Folkestone to Calais, making it the ideal option if you’re in a hurry. Just remember that you’ll need to factor in some time for check-in and boarding, which can add around an hour to your overall journey.
The Dover to Calais ferry takes about 90 minutes to cross the Channel. However, when you include the boarding and disembarking process, the total journey time can be around 2-3 hours. Though it’s slower, the ferry offers a more scenic and relaxed experience, perfect for those who want to enjoy the journey.
Winner: If speed is your top priority, the Eurotunnel is the way to go.
Cost
If you’re looking to save money, the Dover to Calais ferry tends to be the more affordable option. Prices start from £80 for a car and passengers, and there are often deals available for those booking in advance or traveling during off-peak times.
The Eurotunnel is typically a bit more expensive, with fares ranging from £80 to £120 for a car. While there are discounts for frequent travelers and promotions, the tunnel usually costs more than the ferry.
Winner: The ferry is generally the cheaper option, especially if you book early or take advantage of special offers.
Onboard Experience
The Eurotunnel is all about speed and efficiency. You stay in your vehicle for the entire crossing, which means there are no onboard amenities such as food or entertainment. If you just want to get to France as quickly as possible, the Eurotunnel provides a simple, no-frills experience.
In contrast, the Dover to Calais ferry offers a much more leisurely experience. Onboard, you’ll find cafés, restaurants, duty-free shops, and even play areas for children. It’s a chance to relax, stretch your legs, and enjoy the views of the White Cliffs of Dover and the French coastline. For longer crossings, some ferries even offer private cabins where you can rest.
Winner: The ferry is the better choice if you want a comfortable and enjoyable crossing with plenty of amenities.
Flexibility and Reliability
The Eurotunnel is known for its frequency and reliability, with trains running up to four times an hour. It’s also less affected by bad weather, making it a dependable option all year round.
While the ferry offers regular sailings (typically every 90 minutes), it can be delayed or cancelled due to bad weather. However, the ferry provides more flexibility if you’re traveling with larger vehicles, caravans, or pets, as there’s more space onboard for all types of transport.
Winner: The Eurotunnel is more frequent and reliable, but the ferry is better suited for larger vehicles and those traveling with pets.
Scenic Views
One of the highlights of the Dover to Calais ferry is the stunning scenery. On a clear day, you can enjoy beautiful views of the White Cliffs of Dover as you depart, and the French coastline as you approach Calais. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to travel across the Channel.
The Eurotunnel, however, is underground, so there are no views during the crossing.
Winner: If you’re looking for a scenic and relaxed journey, the ferry is the clear winner.
Traveling with Pets
Both the ferry and Eurotunnel allow pets, but the experience differs.
On Eurotunnel pets remain in your car with you, making it a comfortable and stress-free experience for animals. The short 35-minute crossing is particularly beneficial for pets that may not handle longer trips well.
Meanwhile on the ferry, pet generally stay in your vehicle during the ferry crossing. However, some ferry operators offer kennels or pet-friendly cabins for longer trips, providing extra comfort.
Winner: The Eurotunnel is ideal for quick and stress-free crossings with pets, but the ferry can offer more flexible pet accommodation on longer routes.
Vehicle Size and Special Transport
If you’re traveling with a caravan, motorhome, or another large vehicle, both options accommodate special vehicles, but the ferry offers more flexibility.
The ferry is ideal for large vehicles, with spacious boarding areas and the ability to accommodate a wide range of transport types, including bicycles.
While larger vehicles are welcome on Eurotunnel, there are more restrictions on the height and length of your vehicle, so it’s worth checking before booking.
Winner: The ferry is better suited for larger vehicles and caravans, offering more flexibility for special transport.
Accessibility for Disabled Travelers
Both the ferry and Eurotunnel cater to passengers with reduced mobility, but the ferry offers more room to move around and access onboard facilities.
The ferry offers wheelchair-accessible seating, priority boarding, and lifts to help passengers move between decks. Many ferry operators also have accessible toilets and staff on hand to assist disabled passengers.
Eurotunnel passengers remain in their vehicles throughout the journey, which can be convenient for those with mobility issues, but the lack of onboard facilities may be a downside.
Winner: The ferry offers more options for passengers with mobility needs, but the Eurotunnel is still convenient for quick journeys.
Environmental Impact
In terms of environmental impact, the Eurotunnel is generally considered the more eco-friendly option.
Eurotunnel operates on electricity, producing fewer CO2 emissions than ferries.
Ferry operators are working to reduce their environmental impact through measures such as using cleaner fuels and modernising their fleets. For example, Brittany Ferries is investing in LNG-powered ships to reduce emissions.
Winner: The Eurotunnel has a lower environmental impact overall.
Comparison Table
| Criteria | Dover to Calais Ferry | Eurotunnel |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 90 minutes | 35 minutes |
| Cost | £80 | £80 to £120 |
| Onboard Amenities | Cafés, shops, play areas, cabins | None (remain in car) |
| Vehicle Flexibility | Ideal for large vehicles, motorhomes | Restrictions on height/length |
| Pet Policy | Pets must stay in the car (kennels available) | Pets remain with you in the car |
| Scenic Views | Stunning sea views of the White Cliffs | None (underground) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to travel from Dover to Calais?
The ferry is typically the cheapest option, especially if you book in advance. Eurotunnel fares are usually higher, but there are discounts for frequent travellers.
How long does it take to get from Dover to Calais by ferry and Eurotunnel?
The Eurotunnel takes around 35 minutes, while the ferry takes 90 minutes. Factor in extra time for boarding and disembarking for both options.
Can I take pets on the ferry or Eurotunnel?
Yes, both the ferry and Eurotunnel allow pets. On the Eurotunnel, pets stay in your vehicle for the journey. On the ferry, pets generally stay in your car, though some ferries have kennels or pet-friendly cabins.
Which option is better for last-minute bookings: Ferry or Eurotunnel?
The Eurotunnel offers more frequent departures, making it easier for last-minute bookings. Ferries, while regular, might require more flexibility if booked last-minute, especially during peak times.
Are there any luggage restrictions for ferry or Eurotunnel crossings?
There are no specific luggage restrictions for either the ferry or Eurotunnel—if it fits in your car, you’re good to go!
Dover to Calais Ferry vs Eurotunnel, Which Is Best for You?
Choose Eurotunnel if you need to get to France quickly, prefer the convenience of staying in your car, or want to avoid weather-related delays.
Choose the Dover to Calais ferry if you’re looking for a more relaxed, scenic journey with onboard amenities, or if you’re traveling with pets, larger vehicles, or want to save money.
Both options provide great ways to cross the Channel, and the best choice depends on your personal travel needs.
Ready to book your trip?
If you fancy finding out more about the routes then please take a look at our Dover to Calais page and Eurotunnel page.
If you’re ready to book then why not head on over to P&O Ferries, DFDS or Irish Ferries to book your Dover to Calais ferry and over to Eurotunnel to book your trip.
