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Hull - Rotterdam
Rotterdam - Hull
Dover - Calais
Calais - Dover
Cairnryan - Larne
Larne - Cairnryan
Number of Passengers
Please enter the number of passengers, if you have more than 9 passengers Click here
Dover To Calais
Adult 16+
Infant 0-3
Child 4-15
Pets
Calais To Dover
Adult 16+
Infant 0-3
Child 4-15
Pets
Number of Passengers
Please enter the number of passengers, if you have more than 9 passengers Click here
Hull To Rotterdam
Adult 16+
Infant 0-1
Toddler 2-3
Child 4-15
Small dog
Large dog
Extra large dog
Small Pet
Other pet
Rotterdam To Hull
Adult 16+
Infant 0-1
Toddler 2-3
Child 4-15
Small dog
Large dog
Extra large dog
Small Pet
Other pet
Number of Passengers
Please enter the number of passengers, if you have more than 9 passengers Click here
Cairnryan To Larne
Adult 16-59
Infant 0-3
Child 4-15
Student 16-25
Senior 60+
Pet Staying in Car
Larne To Cairnryan
Adult 16-59
Infant 0-3
Child 4-15
Student 16-25
Senior 60+
Pet Staying in Car
Vehicle Details
Please select your vehicle type. Please note: Vehicles of any type carrying commercial goods must be booked on our freight website. Please include roof boxes and bikes in your vehicles total height.
Dover To Calais
Travelling By
Vehicle Type
Standard
Standard: <4.7m length; <1.8m height. Enter length if 4.7m or greater.
Standard Van
Standard Van: <7m length, <2.30m height. If length is 7m or greater, contact our Freight team
Standard Minibus
Standard Minibus: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Standard Motorhome
Standard Motorhome: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Calais To Dover
Travelling By
Vehicle Type
Standard
Standard: <4.7m length; <1.8m height. Enter length if 4.7m or greater.
Standard Van
Standard Van: <7m length, <2.30m height. If length is 7m or greater, contact our Freight team
Standard Minibus
Standard Minibus: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Standard Motorhome
Standard Motorhome: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Vehicle Details
Please select your vehicle type. Please note: Vehicles of any type carrying commercial goods must be booked on our freight website. Please include roof boxes and bikes in your vehicles total height.
Hull To Rotterdam
Travelling By
Vehicle Type
Standard
Standard: <4.7m length; <1.8 height. Enter length if 4.7m or greater.
Standard Van
Standard Van: <7m length, <2.30m height. If length is 7m or greater, contact our Freight team
Standard Minibus
Standard Minibus: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Standard Motorhome
Standard Motorhome: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Rotterdam To Hull
Travelling By
Vehicle Type
Standard
Standard: <4.7m length; <1.8 height. Enter length if 4.7m or greater.
Standard Van
Standard Van: <7m length, <2.30m height. If length is 7m or greater, contact our Freight team
Standard Minibus
Standard Minibus: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Standard Motorhome
Standard Motorhome: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Vehicle Details
Please select your vehicle type. Please note: Vehicles of any type carrying commercial goods must be booked on our freight website. Please include roof boxes and bikes in your vehicles total height.
Cairnryan To Larne
Travelling By
Vehicle Type
Standard
Standard: <4.7m length; <1.8 height. Enter length if 4.7m or greater.
Standard Van
Standard Van: <7m length, <2.30m height. If length is 7m or greater, contact our Freight team
Standard Minibus
Standard Minibus: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Standard Motorhome
Standard Motorhome: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Larne To Cairnryan
Travelling By
Vehicle Type
Standard
Standard: <4.7m length; <1.8 height. Enter length if 4.7m or greater.
Standard Van
Standard Van: <7m length, <2.30m height. If length is 7m or greater, contact our Freight team
Standard Minibus
Standard Minibus: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Standard Motorhome
Standard Motorhome: <6m length; <2.3m height. Enter length if 6.0m or greater.
Departure time
Returning time
Day trip
From: Dover
To: Calais
 
 
Day trip
 
Day trip

Family Travel Tips

Family on a ferry
Travelling with a large family

When travelling with a large family, priority boarding is one of the easiest ways to make the journey stress-free. Being among the first on board reduces waiting time, gives children a chance to settle quickly, and allows your family to start the holiday relaxed.

Arriving early also means you’ll be the first off the ferry, giving you more time to enjoy your destination.


Two people with travel bags on a ferry
Pack a Travel Bag

A pre-packed family travel bag is essential for a smooth ferry crossing. Include all the items you may need quickly during the journey, such as:

  • Nappies and baby wipes

  • Spare clothing and pyjamas

  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste

  • Favourite toys or comfort items

  • Phone chargers, money, and important documents

  • Pillows and a blanket (especially if you don’t have a cabin)

Travelling with a family on a ferry means you can bring as much food, drinks, and luggage as your car can carry. Keep essentials in an accessible bag to avoid rummaging through multiple suitcases during the trip.


Children playing in an arcade
Keep the Kids Entertained

Our family-friendly ferries offer plenty of ways to keep children of all ages happy. On selected summer crossings, the Junior Crew kids club entertains children aged 5–11 with arts and crafts, puzzles, and games. They can even meet our mascot, Pirate Pete!

Teenagers can enjoy video arcade rooms, free Wi-Fi, and lounges, making it easy for everyone in the family to have something fun to do during the crossing.


Family Holiday Ferry Travel Tips

Summer Travel Tips for Families
  • Travel early or late in the day: Avoid the midday sun for a cooler, more comfortable journey.
  • Pack lightweight clothing: Bring breathable layers, sun hats, and sandals for sunny summer days.
  • Portable sun protection: Sunscreen, umbrellas, and UV covers help keep children safe.
  • Stay hydrated and snack smart: Bring refillable bottles, fruit, and easy snacks to keep energy levels high.
  • Seasonal activities: Encourage kids to join on-board scavenger hunts or games.
  • Take advantage of deals: Plan ahead to make the most of ferry offers and seasonal promotions.

Capture memories: Encourage children to keep a small travel journal or scrapbook.

Winter Travel Tips
  • Layer clothing: Weather on deck can be chilly; pack jumpers, jackets, and hats.
  • Bring warm snacks and drinks: Hot chocolate or thermoses of soup help keep everyone comfortable.
  • Indoor entertainment: Use tablets, books, and games to pass the time on colder crossings.
  • Cabin comfort: Book cabins with beds and private bathrooms to make longer winter crossings cozy.

Check schedules: Winter ferry times may be reduced, so plan ahead to avoid missing sailings.

Ferry Travel Destinations in Europe

European Family-Friendly Ferry Holiday Destinations

Europe is full of family-friendly destinations that offer something for everyone. From the sun-soaked beaches of southern France and Spain to the historic cities of Italy and the Netherlands, there are endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Families can enjoy interactive museums, scenic train rides, outdoor parks, and cultural festivals that cater to children of all ages. Travelling by ferry makes it easy to bring your own vehicle, allowing you to explore multiple destinations at your own pace and do things you all enjoy.

Best Family Ferry Destinations in Europe

Ferries open up a world of family-friendly holiday options across Europe:

  1. Calais, France – Beaches, adventure parks, and seaside fun.

  2. Dunkirk, France – Outdoor activities and family-friendly coastal experiences.

  3. Paris, France – Disneyland, museums, parks, and iconic landmarks.

  4. Zeebrugge, Belgium – Bruges’ canals, chocolate shops, and historic streets.

  5. Ostend, Belgium – Sandy beaches, promenades, and family attractions.

  6. Hook of Holland, Netherlands – Explore Dutch coastal towns and easy access to Amsterdam.

  7. Rotterdam, Netherlands – Modern architecture, interactive museums, and outdoor parks.

  8. Hull, England – Museums, waterfront walks, and Yorkshire countryside.

  9. Newcastle, England – Science and history museums, nearby beaches, and scenic countryside.

  10. Portsmouth, England – Historic naval sites and access to the New Forest.

Travelling by ferry makes it easy to explore multiple destinations at your own pace, giving your family the freedom to create unforgettable holiday memories together.


Multigenerational Family Ferry Travel

Multigenerational holidays are growing in popularity, bringing grandparents, parents, and children together for a shared experience. These trips are perfect for recreating memories, sharing stories, and creating nostalgia.

Tips for keeping everyone happy:

  • Choose family-friendly cabins with extra space or interconnecting rooms.

  • Mix activities for all ages: kids’ clubs, teen lounges, quiet decks for adults.

  • Plan meals together with flexible dining options for all generations.

  • Bring comfort essentials: blankets, favourite snacks, and items for mobility or comfort.

  • Explore destinations as a group with your own vehicle, visiting beaches, parks, museums, or cultural attractions.

  • Capture memories with photos, videos, or a shared travel journal.

Why it’s popular: Multigenerational ferry holidays combine flexible travel, family bonding, and the freedom of having your own car, creating a stress-free and enjoyable experience for every generation.


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Family taking a selfie on a ferry

Family Travel Around Europe FAQs

1 Where to travel in Europe with family?
Europe offers countless family-friendly destinations. Popular spots accessible via P&O Ferries include Disneyland Paris for theme park fun, the beaches of Calais and Dunkirk, historic cities like Bruges in Belgium, and coastal towns in the Netherlands such as Hook of Holland and Rotterdam. Each destination combines cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and attractions suitable for children of all ages, making them perfect for family holidays.
2 How to travel Europe with family?
The easiest way to travel in Europe with your family is by ferry. This method allows you to bring luggage, car seats, and all the essentials without worrying about strict airline restrictions. P&O Ferries offers multiple routes connecting the UK with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, allowing you to explore various destinations at your own pace. Planning flexible itineraries, booking accommodations in advance, and keeping kids entertained on board ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone.
3 How to travel with a family of 5 in Europe?
Travelling with a larger family is simple when you plan and choose family-friendly transport. Booking a P&O ferry lets you travel together with plenty of space for everyone’s luggage and personal items. Opting for our priority boarding also reduces waiting time. Here you can have the flexibility to explore cities, beaches, and attractions across Europe without the stress of juggling multiple flights or trains.