Ferries from Dover to the Netherlands
Although there are no direct ferries from Dover to the Netherlands, Dover remains one of the most popular departure ports for travellers heading in that direction. The reason is simple: crossings to Calais and Dunkirk are short, frequent and often competitively priced. With up to dozens of departures per day spread across P&O Ferries, DFDS and Irish Ferries, there is usually plenty of choice. For travellers with a car, campervan or motorcycle, travelling via France can sometimes work out considerably cheaper than taking one of the direct overnight ferries to the Netherlands.
Routes
Our experience
We’ve travelled on every ferry route between Dover and the continent ourselves. We were particularly impressed by P&O Ferries thanks to its competitive fares, modern ships, clean facilities and spacious outdoor decks. For many travellers heading to the Netherlands, this is often the fastest and most affordable option.
Our experience
This is the only route in this overview that we haven’t personally sailed, so we can’t share any first-hand experiences.
Ferry services from Dover to the Netherlands
From Dover, you can choose between P&O Ferries, DFDS and Irish Ferries. Most travellers sail to Calais, although DFDS also operates services to Dunkirk. The crossing to Dunkirk takes around 30 minutes longer, but the port can sometimes be a little less busy during peak travel periods.
Map with suggested Dover – the Netherlands ferry routes
This map shows ferry routes from Dover to the Netherlands, with crossing times, fares and the ports they sail from. Tap a route for details, tap a port for its sailings, or zoom in for more.
Onboard experience
The onboard facilities are broadly similar across all operators, although the ships themselves vary in age. P&O Ferries operates the modern P&O Pioneer and P&O Liberté, both of which are among the newest vessels on the route and offer a comfortable and stable crossing. DFDS also operates modern vessels that offer a comfortable crossing and a good range of onboard facilities. Irish Ferries uses the Isle of Inishmore, the oldest vessel on the Dover–Calais route. Entering service in 1997, she is considerably older than her competitors, but many travellers appreciate her spacious passenger areas and traditional ferry atmosphere.
If fares are similar, the age and comfort of the ships may be worth considering. That said, most travellers are simply looking for the cheapest way across the Channel, and for a crossing of around 90 minutes, the difference is rarely a dealbreaker.
Photos from the journey
By car
The distances below give a good indication of how long it takes to reach the Netherlands after arriving in France. Dunkirk offers a small advantage, as the port is located closer to the Belgian and Dutch borders.
| Port | Distance to Dutch border | Driving time |
|---|---|---|
| Calais | 185 miles (298 km) | 3 hr 15 min |
| Dunkirk | 166 miles (267 km) | 2 hr 50 min |
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By campervan
One major advantage of travelling via Dover is the cost for motorhomes and campervans. On the direct overnight routes to the Netherlands, fares can become quite expensive, especially during busy periods. Dover crossings are often significantly cheaper, making them a popular choice for camper travellers.
Still weighing up your options?
We are a Dutch team and we have made all three direct crossings ourselves, and the photos on this site are our own. Tell us where you are starting and we will point you to the smartest way across.