The first time I boarded a ferry at Dover, it felt like part of the holiday rather than just the journey. You roll your car on, stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and before you know it the cliffs are shrinking behind you. That’s exactly the charm of travelling with P&O Ferries on their crossings to France. It’s not just transport — it’s a gentle start to an adventure.
Quick Take
- Crossings run all day between Dover and Calais.
- Around 90 minutes at sea — long enough for a meal, short enough not to drag.
- Bring your own car, campervan, or even bikes.
- Shops, cafés, and lounges onboard.
- P&O Ferries gives you flexibility without the squeeze of air travel.
Why Take the Ferry Instead of Flying?
Airports mean queues, security checks, and baggage limits. Travelling with P&O Ferries is the opposite: you drive on, step upstairs, and the holiday begins. You can pack the extra shoes, throw in a case of wine on the way back, or bring your dog — things you simply can’t do as easily when flying.
For families, that freedom is priceless. No weighing bags at the counter, no hoping a buggy comes off the plane in one piece. For couples, it’s the calm start to a city break rather than a scramble through terminals.
Dover to Calais: The Classic Route
The workhorse of the operation is the Dover–Calais route. Ferries leave every couple of hours, day and night, so you can travel when it suits you. The 90-minute crossing is a sweet spot: time to grab a full English in the café, browse duty-free for perfume or whisky, and watch the sea roll by from deck.
Arrive in Calais, and you’re plugged straight into the French motorway network. Paris is three hours away, Bruges under two, and Normandy not far beyond that. It’s why road-trippers and families keep coming back — it opens up Europe without complication.
A Look Around Onboard
Don’t expect bare bones. A modern P&O ship is more like a floating service station with sea views. You’ll find:
- Food options: from hot meals to a Costa coffee counter.
- Duty-free: discounted spirits, skincare, and gifts.
- Lounges: quieter corners for reading or catching up on emails.
- Outdoor decks: the spot for sea air and selfies with the White Cliffs behind you.
- Play areas: a relief for parents with small children.
It’s not luxury cruising, but it’s comfortable, practical, and makes the time pass quickly.
Boarding: Easier Than You Think
Driving onto the ferry is straightforward. You check in, line up with other cars, and staff guide you aboard. Once parked, you lock the car, take your bag, and head upstairs. No running for gates, no shuffling through security. When you dock in France, you’re already behind the wheel and ready to go.
That simplicity is exactly why many regular travellers swear by P&O Ferries.
A Real Crossing, Start to Finish
On my last trip, I left London just after dawn. By 8 a.m., I was parked on deck and heading upstairs for breakfast. The sea was calm, the coffee hot, and by the time I’d wandered through the shop and stood on the outside deck for a blast of fresh wind, the French coast was already visible. By 11, I was driving towards Lille with no stress and no airport hangover.
Who Benefits Most?
- Families who want space and flexibility.
- Couples heading for a weekend in Paris or Bruges.
- Pet owners — ferries make it easier than air travel.
- Shoppers looking to stock up on wine or cheese without worrying about baggage rules.
FAQs About P&O Ferries
How long is Dover to Calais?
Around 90 minutes.
Do I stay in my car?
No, all passengers go to the passenger decks during sailing.
Is there food on board?
Yes — cafés, hot meals, and bars.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes, with the correct booking.
What happens if a sailing is cancelled?
You’ll be offered the next available crossing or a refund.
Start Your Holiday the Right Way
If you’re planning a break in France, don’t overlook the ferry. With regular departures, fair prices, and the ability to travel on your own terms, P&O Ferries turns a simple crossing into the first chapter of your holiday.
Skip the stress of airports and take the scenic route instead. France is only 90 minutes away — and the sea breeze makes the start of the trip feel that little bit more special.