• Scenic and relaxing: A ferry allows you to take in panoramic views of the English Channel, step outside on the deck, and enjoy the sea breeze, turning the journey into part of your holiday rather than just a transfer.

• Family-friendly: Children can walk, play, and explore onboard areas, and enjoy the kids’ entertainment offered onboard.

• Onboard facilities: Ferries are equipped with restaurants, cafes, lounges, and duty-free shopping, offering a variety of options to relax, dine, and refresh before arriving in France.

• Flexible for pets: Ferry travel also provides more convenient travel options for those travelling with pets. At P&O Ferries, our pet lounges allow you and your furry friend to relax the moment you arrive.

• Fast and efficient: Cross from Folkestone to Calais in just 35 minutes, making it the quickest way to drive into France.

• Stay in your car: Remain in your vehicle for the entire journey, allowing you to move from A to b without having to leave your vehicle.

• Frequent departures: Up to four departures per hour, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

• Pet-friendly: Pets are welcome to travel in the car, with exercise areas available at the terminals before departure. However, they must remain in the vehicle during the crossing.

Deciding on whether to take the ferry or the Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) to France depends on what you want from your travel experience. While the Eurotunnel offers quick 35-minute journeys from Folkestone to Calais, a ferry crossing from Dover to Calais typically takes around 90 minutes. However, this longer crossing comes with numerous benefits that make it a more enjoyable experience for many travellers. 

The Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) focuses on speed and efficiency to get you from A to B. Whereas ferries to France provide a more leisurely scenic journey, where the crossing itself becomes part of the holiday experience. 

When planning your trip to France, it’s worth taking a closer look at ferry costs and Eurotunnel costs, as both can vary depending on when and how you travel. Ferry costs tend to be competitive, especially when booked early, and can vary based on your route, vehicle size, operator, and optional extras such as cabins or pet-friendly accommodations.

Eurotunnel costs are influenced by similar factors, including travel date, vehicle type, and booking time. While the Channel Tunnel can sometimes offer a lower starting price, fares can quickly rise during busy travel periods or for larger vehicles.

When comparing Channel Tunnel and ferry costs, ferries often provide better overall value. Although the Eurotunnel may be faster, ferries offer a more relaxed journey with the added bonus of onboard facilities, fresh air, and scenic views, making the crossing part of your holiday rather than just a transfer.

For families, ferries often offer a more enjoyable and flexible option compared to the Eurotunnel. While the Eurotunnel is quicker, the 35-minute drive-through experience can feel confined, especially for children who need space to move around. On a ferry, kids can explore safely, enjoy onboard play areas, and take in the excitement of being on a ship, turning the Channel crossing into part of the adventure rather than just a short transfer.

For families seeking a more relaxed, spacious, and memorable start to their trip, a ferry can make the journey feel like part of the holiday itself. With plenty of things to do with kids in France, getting the ferry can be a great start to creating those family memories no one will ever forget. 

Travelling with pets can be challenging, and here ferries often provide a more relaxing and stress-free option for pet owners. 

At P&O Ferries, dogs can be booked onto the Pet Lounge, where they can enjoy a dedicated area both inside and outside to relax with their owners across the channel. Eurotunnel, however, require pets to stay in the vehicle during the crossing. 

While both provide areas for pets to stretch their legs at both sides of their terminals and ports, for pet owners, ferry travel tends to be the more convenient choice. With many places around Europe becoming more pet-friendly too, why wouldn’t you want them to come along?