Ferry from Dunkirk to Dover

When travelling by ferry from Dunkirk to Dover, you can take advantage of the regular discounts available to specific traveller categories. Typically, you can expect lower ferry ticket prices for children under 16, while infants and toddlers up to 3 years old typically travel for free.

The conventional ferries serving the Dunkirk - Dover route are equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable and relaxed trip to England. On board, you will typically find:

• Air-conditioned lounges and seating on deck
• Restaurants and bars serving drinks, snacks and meals
• Play areas for children
• Entertainment options
• Shops selling duty-free goods
• Car decks for the transportation of vehicles

Cabins and accommodation

Due to the short length of the trip, there are no cabins available on the ferries from Dunkirk to Dover. Standard deck/lounge seating is included in the price.

Luggage

When travelling with DFDS ferries, you can bring up to 50 kg of luggage with you on board.

Travelling with pets

Pets are generally allowed on Dunkirk - Dover ferries, provided you include them in your reservation and purchase the necessary ticket. Keep in mind that on DFDS ferries serving the route, pets must remain in your vehicle for the trip and that there are no kennels or dedicated pet areas on board.

Dogs will need to receive tapeworm treatment at least 24 hr before arriving in Dover, and you will also need to sign a declaration to confirm that you do not intend to sell your pet in the UK.

Remember to bring your pet’s travel and health documents, including microchip identification, a valid rabies vaccination certificate, as well as the tickets and any pet supplies you may need for the trip.

Important: certain dog breeds are not permitted to travel, as they are banned in the UK. These include XL Bullies, Pit Bull Terriers (including American Pit Bull Terrier), Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.

Here are some useful tips for your ferry trip from Dunkirk to Dover:

• The port in Dunkirk can get very busy, so it is advisable to arrive there at least 1.5 hr in advance, for a smooth boarding process.
• When planning your ferry trip, don’t forget that there is a 1-hr time difference between France and the UK.
• The sea can get a bit choppy, so if you are sensitive to the waves, consider taking seasickness medication before the trip. You can discuss your options with your pharmacist or doctor.
• For more travel options, consider the ferry to Dover from Calais, which is about 40 km to the west of Dunkirk.
• If you are popping over the Channel for a quick visit, make sure to take a look at the Dover - Dunkirk ferry for your return trip.
• From England, you can also travel to the Dutch ports of Amsterdam and Hoek van Holland. For more details, check out our detailed guide on UK - Netherlands ferries.

Where to take the ferry from Dunkirk to Dover

Ferries to Dover generally set sail from the Port of Dunkirk (Port de Dunkerque), which is about 10 km northwest of Dunkirk city centre and near the town of Loon-Plage. The terminal sits along the coast, slightly outside the main urban area, making it easily accessible by car via the A16 motorway.

In the ferry terminal you will find many essential traveler amenities, including check-in booths, restrooms, a small café, waiting areas with Wi-Fi, and dedicated lanes for cars, motorhomes, and freight.

How to get to Dunkirk port?

Reaching the Port of Dunkirk is easy, as it is just off the A16 motorway and a short drive from the city centre. If you are arriving in cities such as Calais, Lille, Bruges, and Brussels, follow the clear signs to Port 560 - Car Ferry Terminal.

If you’re arriving without a vehicle, there are regional services to the main train station in Dunkirk, and from there you can reach the port in 15-20 min by taxi or bus. There are also long-distance coaches to Dunkirk city center, from where local buses take you directly to the terminal.

Where does the ferry arrive in Dover?

Ferries from Dunkirk typically arrive at the Eastern Docks in Dover, the town’s main ferry port. The terminal is just off the A20, so it’s easy to continue your journey towards London, Kent or the Midlands as soon as you drive out of the port area.

At the ferry terminal, you will find plenty of traveller amenities, including cafés and restaurants, shops, restrooms and seating areas with free Wi-Fi access.

If you’re heading into town, the Dover Priory railway station is about a 5-min drive or a 20-25 min walk from the port. Trains run regularly to London St Pancras, London Victoria and Canterbury, making onward travel very simple.