Foot Passenger Dover to Calais: Routes, Prices & Booking Guide
Planning a trip as a foot passenger Dover to Calais?
Whether you’re heading to France for a holiday, a business trip, or just a day out, taking the ferry is a convenient and affordable option.
But with limited operators allowing foot passengers, it’s essential to know the best way to book, what to expect, and how to make the most of your journey.
Having travelled this route multiple times, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about foot passenger Dover to Calais ferries, including pricing, timetables, top travel tips, and alternative ferry routes.
Important: P&O Ferries is currently the only ferry operator that allows foot passengers Dover to Calais. DFDS does not accept foot passengers on this service.
Who Can Travel as a Foot Passenger Dover to Calais?
Not everyone wants or needs to take a car across the Channel. Foot passenger ferry travel is ideal for:
- Backpackers and solo travellers exploring Europe.
- Cyclists looking for easy access to France’s scenic cycle routes.
- Budget-conscious travellers seeking a cost-effective alternative to Eurostar.
- Families and groups wanting a flexible, no-car travel option.
- Those needing a simple, stress-free cross-channel transport solution.
Benefits of Travelling as a Foot Passenger Dover to Calais
Travelling can get expensive, but going as a foot passenger helps you save money. No fuel costs, no tolls, and no parking fees—just an easy and budget-friendly way to cross the Channel.
Plus, if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly way to travel, this is a great option. Ferries already have a lower carbon footprint than flying, and by leaving the car behind, you’re making the trip even greener.
Then there’s the parking situation or rather, the lack of it. No need to stress about finding a spot or paying for expensive parking. Just check in, board the ferry, and you’re on your way without the extra hassle.
It’s also one of the easiest ways to travel. Whether you’re off for a weekend break or a longer adventure, it’s a simple, relaxed way to get to France.
Check-in is quick, boarding is straightforward, and once you’re on board, you can just sit back and enjoy the journey.
How to Book a Foot Passenger Dover to Calais Ferry
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can secure your ticket through various channels, but for the best deals and availability, book direct.
Ticket Prices (2025 Guide)
The cost of a foot passenger Dover to Calais ferry ticket can vary depending on seasonality, availability, and ticket flexibility.
Generally, prices range from:
- £30 to £109 per person for a standard foot passenger ticket.
- Average one-way foot passenger fare: Around £64.
- Flexible tickets allow changes but may cost extra.
Tip: Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance for the best fares and availability.
Check-in & Boarding Process for Foot Passengers Dover to Calais
When travelling as a foot passenger Dover to Calais, you must check in separately from vehicle passengers. Check in closes 90 minutes prior to departure s you MUST ensure you arrive by then..
What You’ll Need at Check-in:
- A valid passport (or national ID card for EU citizens).
- A printed or digital e-ticket.
- Awareness of luggage allowances – larger bags may need to be checked in.
- Travel insurance is advised in case of cancellations or delays.
Once checked in, a shuttle bus transports foot passengers to the ferry. Onboard, you can access lounges, restaurants, and duty-free shopping.
P&O Ferries Timetable & Journey Duration
The ferry journey takes approximately 90 minutes from Dover to Calais.
Typical Daily Sailing Schedule (2025)
| Departure from Dover | Departure from Calais |
|---|---|
| 09:45 | 09:50 |
| 13:40 | 15:00 |
| 13:40 | 19:00 |
⏰ Schedules may vary, so always check for live updates before travelling.
Onboard: What to Expect for Foot Passengers Dover to Calais
Ferries are well-equipped for a comfortable journey.
Seating & Lounge Areas: Standard seating is available, but upgrading to the Club Lounge (£20-£30) provides a quieter space with complimentary refreshments and priority boarding.
Dining Options: Whether you want a full meal or just a snack, there are self-service restaurants, cafés, and bars offering hot meals, drinks, and snacks.
Duty-Free Shopping: Save on perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco, with exclusive ferry-only discounts on premium brands.
Additional Onboard Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi (limited access)
- Charging points for mobile devices
- Children’s play areas
- Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating
Arriving in Calais: What Happens Next?
Once you arrive in Calais, there are several ways to continue your journey:
- Taxi: €10-€15 for a 10-minute ride to the city centre.
- Bus: Regular services run to Calais train station.
- Train: Quick connections to Lille, Paris, and beyond.
- Bike rental: Available near the port for local travel.
For those spending time in Calais, attractions like Calais Beach, the Town Hall & Lace Museum, and local seafood restaurants are worth visiting.
Alternative Foot Passenger Ferry Routes
While the Dover to Calais route is the most popular, there are other ferry routes that allow foot passengers:
- Newhaven to Dieppe (fares from £23 each way)
- Plymouth to Roscoff (fares from £42 each way)
- Poole to Cherbourg (fares from £40.50 each way)
- Portsmouth to Caen (fares from £49 each way)
- Portsmouth to St Malo and Le Havre
- Harwich to Hook of Holland (Stena Line)
Cost Comparison: Foot Passenger Ferry vs. Eurostar
When deciding how to travel between the UK and France, price is a key factor. Here’s how taking the foot passenger ferry from Dover to Calais compares with the Eurostar train from London to Paris (via Calais or Lille).
| Transport | One-Way Price (2025) | Journey Time | Booking Flexibility | Pros & Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger Ferry (Dover to Calais) | £30 – £109 (avg. £64) | 90 minutes (excluding check-in time) | Flexible tickets available (£10-£20 extra) | ✅ Cheapest option ✅ No baggage fees ✅ Relaxing journey with onboard amenities ❌ Slower than Eurostar ❌ Requires onward transport from Calais |
| Eurostar (London to Paris via Calais/Lille) | £39 – £250+ (avg. £90) | 1 hour (London to Calais), 2h 15m (London to Paris) | Less flexible (Standard tickets non-refundable) | ✅ Fastest option ✅ Direct to city centres (London & Paris) ❌ Higher fares, especially last-minute ❌ Strict baggage rules |
Which Option is Better?
- If budget is your priority, the foot passenger ferry is the cheaper alternative, with fares starting at just £30.
- If you prioritise speed and convenience, the Eurostar is much faster, especially for travellers heading directly to Paris.
- If you plan to explore Calais or other French regions, the ferry allows more flexibility, especially for those with bikes or luggage.
Tip: Book 2-4 weeks in advance for both options to secure the lowest prices. If you’re flexible on travel dates, ferry fares remain more stable compared to Eurostar’s fluctuating demand-based pricing.
FAQs: Foot Passenger Dover to Calais Ferry
How much is a foot passenger ticket from Dover to Calais?
Prices range from £30 to £109, with an average cost of £64 per person. The exact fare depends on factors such as the season, availability, and ticket flexibility.
Which ferries to France allow foot passengers?
P&O Ferries runs the Dover to Calais route for foot passengers. Other routes include Newhaven to Dieppe, Portsmouth to Caen, and Plymouth to Roscoff, among others.
Can you be a foot passenger on the Eurotunnel?
No, Eurotunnel is a vehicle-only service and does not accept foot passengers.
Which channel ferries take foot passengers?
Ferries allowing foot passengers include P&O Ferries on the Dover to Calais route, DFDS on the Newhaven to Dieppe route and Brittany Ferries on all routes.
Final Thoughts: Why Book Your Foot Passenger Dover to Calais Ferry Today?
Travelling as a foot passenger Dover to Calais is one of the most affordable and flexible ways to cross the Channel. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday in France, P&O Ferries offers a reliable and comfortable service.
Book now direct now for the best deals and a hassle-free journey!
Useful Resources for Foot Passengers List of External Links
To help you with your travel to and from Dover port and Calais port, we’ve put together a list of helpful links below.
- SNCF (French National Railway Company): Calais is served by several train stations, with Gare de Calais-Ville being the main station located in the city center. SNCF operates regional and high-speed trains (TGV) connecting Calais to various destinations, including Paris and Lille.
- Southeastern Trains: Trains from London St Pancras to Dover at regular times.
- National Express: Buses from a variety of destinations direct to Dover town centre.
