The white cliffs of Dover were the first sighting of England for passengers before the days of aeroplanes and the Channel Tunnel. Although Dover Port is not as busy as it once was, it is still a leading UK ferry port with links to Boulogne, Calais and Dunkirk. The port is still a major gateway from northern France for freight ferries to Dover.

Four major ferry lines offer regular crossings to Dover from the French side of the English Channel. The busiest route for freight ferries to Dover is from Calais. In the peak summer season P&O Ferries sail up to 25 times daily and Sea France cross around 20 times. Ferries depart at regular intervals throughout the day and night.

Travel time for freight ferries to Dover from Calais is around 90 minutes. Vehicles need to be onboard 30 minutes before scheduled departure times. Both companies operate modern vessels with the latest in stabiliser technology which ensures travellers a smooth journey.

Once aboard freight ferries to Dover passengers are treated to comfortable passenger lounges with spacious seating as well as coffee shops, bars, sit down restaurants and VIP lounges. Shops offer cigarettes, wine, electrical products, French delicacies, perfumery, chocolates and gifts.

Booking is easily managed online or by calling Sea France on +44 871 4237119. P&O’s help desk at +44 871 6645645 is manned by bilingual operators. Calais is easily reached on the French motorway network. Drivers arriving at Dover’s eastern docks are close to the A2 motorway which is convenient for the M25 and London.

Tags: Channel Tunnel, Dover, England, P&O ferries, Sea France, UK ferry port