Travelling with a Bicycle to France

Entering the port of Dover with a bicycle

Upon entry into the Port of Dover, unless otherwise stated, cycle routes for entry & exit are on the cliff side of the port. Where possible, follow the thick red line on the pathway and road. Proceed to the French Border Controls where you travel documents will be checked.

Please ensure you remain in single file when in the port of Dover. Our check in staff will let you know where you need to go and what lane you need to be in to board the ship.

Please make sure you get to the Port of Dover with plenty of time to spare – check in closes 90 minutes before departure, and we recommend arriving well before this, as the ferry terminal can get busy.

Boarding the ship

You must await instruction from ferry staff to board the ship. It is very important that, at the point where the loading bridge crosses onto the vessel deck, cyclists dismount and walk their bike across, as unexpected bridge movements can occur.

Once onboard you will be directed to an area where you can leave your bike for the duration of the crossing. Please ensure it is tightly secured to avoid any movement or damage during the crossing.

Riders should ensure that they are sufficiently visible by their clothing and that cycles are equipped with lights.

Cyclists should ensure that their bicycles are road worthy and wear helmets while riding through the Port.

In addition, adults cycling with children are responsible for the safety of the children. It is recommended that children are positioned to ride between adults and are of an appropriate age and proficiency to be confident cycling in the environment presented by the Port.

Cyclists should be able to ride comfortably without hindrance from baggage. All baggage should be properly stowed in backpacks or bike panniers. The safety of pedestrians must be respected on any shared sections of the route.

Find more information about travelling with a bicycle by visiting the Port of Dover website.

If you’re bringing your bikes with a car, all you need to remember is to include any attached racks or boxes in the height and length of your vehicle when making your booking.

You may want to consider buying a bicycle rack that attaches to the back of your vehicle, making it easier to check everything is safe and secure.

Before boarding the ferry, please make sure that everything is securely fastened – we wouldn’t want any damage to come to yours (or anyone else’s) property.

Make sure you bring with you:

• Reflective clothing

• Puncture repair kit

• Portable phone charger

You may also want to read up on European cycling laws, as you could get fined for something that is legal in the UK.

It is also a good idea to make a note of places to stop and rest along your journey route and let your accommodation know in advance when you are planning to arrive.

Electric bicycles are permitted to travel and have the same processes as for traditional bicycles.

Please note: Those with bicycles will not be able to take their cycle on to the foot passenger bus.

If you wish to add more than one bicycle onto your booking, please call our customer support team on 01304 44 88 88.

Call centre opening hours can be found in our Help section.