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Can I stay in my car on DFDS ferry?

The car deck is off limit during the crossing, so remember to bring all your luggage with you that you will need onboard. Our local colleagues will gladly help you with any questions. Please note that all passengers of our ships must be accommodated in cabins, and camping on the ship is not allowed on all routes.



No, for safety and security reasons, you are not permitted to stay in your car on a DFDS ferry (or any standard passenger ferry) once the ship has left the port in 2026. Shortly after boarding and before the vessel sets sail, the car decks are cleared of all passengers and sealed for the duration of the crossing. This is a strict international maritime safety regulation designed to protect passengers in the event of a fire, collision, or shifting cargo; the car deck is a hazardous area with limited ventilation and high concentrations of fuel. Once the "clear decks" order is given, you must move to the passenger lounges, restaurants, or your cabin. Access to the vehicle deck is typically only granted in the final 10–15 minutes before arrival at the destination port. If you are traveling with a pet that must stay in the car, some DFDS routes allow for "scheduled visits" accompanied by a crew member, but you cannot remain there for the journey.

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Our routes include crossings from Dover to Calais and Dunkirk, as well as Newhaven to Dieppe, all with comfortable onboard facilities so you can really relax and enjoy the journey. Enjoy a bite to eat and take the kids to the soft play area or even explore outside on deck.

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Boarding starts: All passengers: 2 hours before scheduled departure time. Check-in closes: Vehicle passengers to Frederikshavn: 50 minutes before scheduled departure time.

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Take A Picnic DFDS state that you are allowed to take your own food and soft drinks on board to be consumed in your cabin (no alcohol).

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All passengers must present relevant documents upon arrival to the terminal. These may include a valid passport, booking confirmation, documents for vehicle or pet travel, and/or other required documents, depending on the rules and regulations of the country you are travelling to.

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Do we need to bring own towels to the boat ? - DFDS. ?Do we need to bring own towels to the boat ?? Helpful? No, they're provided.

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There are a number of bars onboard our ships where you can grab a drink and relax. Visit the Navigator's or Compass bar for a relaxing drink or head to the Columbus Club for live music and entertainment.

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The Bubble Zone includes 1-2 pools of various sizes and 1-2 jacuzzis depending on the ship you are sailing on. There is also a sauna and a unisex changing room available. Out on the sundeck you can enjoy the magnificent views when entering or leaving the Kattegat Sea.

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No, you can't stay in your car during the ferry crossing between Dover and Calais. Once the vessel disembarks, you are not allowed to stay in the car parking deck for safety reasons. However, you can return to your car a few minutes before reaching the port of Calais, following the instructions of the crew.

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Park Your Car on the Ferry You don't want to run the risk that a large wave will make your car roll into other vehicles. Lock all of your doors before leaving the vehicle. Do not, however, turn on your car's alarm system.

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Passengers are not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages on or off a vessel except for beverages that they are transporting as personal baggage in unopened containers, which may not be opened while the vessel is underway.

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Also included are coffee, tea, milk and juices. From 7:00 am the breakfast buffet will be open for you and it will be covered until the ship is docked.

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The cafes on-board DFDS Seaways ferries serve a selection of light refreshments, snacks and light meals throughout the day. Our guide prices are based on the Newcastle to Amsterdam route and are priced in Euros. As a guide, soft drinks start from around €2.20. Beers start from around €3.40.

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Do you check in your luggage on ferries? No, there is no check-in procedure for luggage items.

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Consumption of your own alcohol onboard is prohibited, including alcohol purchased from the onboard Sea Shop. Only alcohol purchased from the onboard bar & restaurant may be consumed. Please keep your receipts from the bar as you may be requested to present them.

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