In 2026, the Port of Dover remains the world's busiest ferry port, with an average of 60 to 80 departures per day to the European mainland (primarily Calais and Dunkirk). These sailings are operated by three major companies: P&O Ferries, DFDS, and Irish Ferries. During peak 2026 travel periods, such as summer holidays or bank weekends, there is a departure roughly every 20 to 30 minutes, 24 hours a day. P&O Ferries typically operates about 11–15 of these daily crossings using their newer "hybrid" vessels like the P&O Pioneer. The total number of daily departures can fluctuate slightly based on weather conditions in the English Channel and seasonal demand. In 2026, the port utilizes advanced "smart border" technology to manage the massive volume of vehicles, but travelers are still advised to arrive at least 90–120 minutes before their scheduled departure to account for the post-Brexit French border controls now permanently stationed at the Dover terminal.