Travelling UK to France by ferry: what are the options?

Brittany Ferries: Poole, Portsmouth and Plymouth to France

Brittany ferries is not operating until June 28 for passengers. You can book a trip from June 29 onwards.

Routes available will be: Cherbourg-Poole; Cherbourg-Portsmouth; Le Havre-Portsmouth; Caen-Portsmouth; Saint Malo-Portsmouth; Roscoff-Plymouth (in both directions).

Passengers and all crew must wear a mask on board, in the port, and in public areas. The number of passengers will be reduced to allow sensible social distancing rules to be enforced. Brittany Ferries says: “This may make boarding and disembarkation slightly slower but more importantly it will make travel safer and more reassuring for everyone.”

The company also says that all tickets are flexible and can be amended free of charge, although fare increases can still apply.

Catering options will change and buffets will be replaced but it will still be possible to eat on board. Shops will also be open.

P&O Ferries: Dover to Calais

P&O ferries says it is currently operating a limited number of sailings from Dover to Calais and Calais to Dover. Foot-passenger services are currently not available but it is possible to book a trip with a car.

Passengers are required to travel with a face mask. There is hand sanitiser available and posters on board to highlight best hygiene practices. It is recommended to keep a two-metre distance between you and other people while on board.

DFDS Ferries: Dover to Dunkirk, Calais

DFDS ferries are running as usual between Dunkirk and Dover, and Calais and Dover, for both freight and passengers.

The wearing of a mask is compulsory on board and bars, lounges and restaurants are closed. Shops are open but social distancing must be respected.

Passengers coming to France do not need any special form on arrival anymore as France lifted border restrictions on June 15 for arrivals from European countries. However, they will be invited to stay in quarantine for 14 days voluntarily.

Passengers going back to the UK are required to complete an online form to register their contact, travel and address information and they are obliged to stay in quarantine for two weeks on arrival. This measure has been in place since June 8 and will be reviewed after three weeks, on June 28.

This remains on a voluntary basis so visitors can still go out if they want to. If they show symptoms of Covid-19, the quarantine will be obligatory and can be done at the place of their choice or at a hotel requisitioned by the government for people in isolation.

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