How long does it take to cross the English Channel by ferry?

How long does a cross Channel ferry take? A Dover to Calais crossing takes around 1 and a half hours whereas the Portsmouth to Santander ferry will take almost 24 hours, so bear this in mind when planning your trip.



The crossing time in 2026 depends entirely on the route you choose. The most popular "short sea" crossing from Dover to Calais takes approximately 90 minutes. If you take the Dover to Dunkirk route, it takes about 2 hours. For those preferring longer, more scenic routes, the Portsmouth to Le Havre or Portsmouth to Caen ferries take significantly longer—roughly 5 to 6 hours during the day and up to 8 hours for an overnight crossing. In 2026, the introduction of "next-generation" hybrid-electric ferries by companies like P&O and DFDS has made these trips quieter and more environmentally friendly, though the speeds have remained consistent to manage fuel efficiency. While the Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) is faster (35 minutes), the ferry remains the "best" way for travelers who want to stretch their legs, enjoy a meal, and see the White Cliffs of Dover as they depart.

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The quickest way to cross the channel is using Eurotunnel, which takes around 35 minutes compared to the 90-minute crossing of the quickest cross-Channel ferry from Dover to Calais.

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The Price from Folkestone – Calais can range between $170 and $500 depending on the operator, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle. The average price of a foot passenger is $457, prices can range between $310 and $691. The average price with a car is $302. Car prices can range between $171 and $481.

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Yes, you're welcome to bring your own food, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks aboard and consume those during the crossing.

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You and your pets stay in your vehicle throughout the journey - sit back and relax, it only takes 35 minutes to cross.

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The infrastructure The Channel Tunnel is the longest undersea tunnel in the world: its section under the sea is 38km long. It is actually composed of three tunnels, each 50km long, bored at an average 40m below the sea bed. They link Folkestone (Kent) to Coquelles (Pas-de-Calais).

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If you are thinking of leaving your car on the ship, you will not be able to, and you must park your car at Dover and cross as a foot passenger. If you take your car on the ferry, you drive on, leave the car, join it again when told at Calais and drive off.

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Generally speaking the ferry is usually slightly cheaper, but whichever option you choose, make sure to shop around for deals and book well ahead of time to get the best-value fares.

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