P&O Ferries

P&O Ferries have provided crossing services from Dover to Calais and back since the 1960s. Changing times and economies demanded the closing and reopening of various ferry routes over time, but the Dover-to-Calais-and-back routes have run steadily from 1987 to the present. This company was also known as Pandoro Ltd. and P&O European Ferries, Portsmouth, North Sea, Irish Sea and Stena Line.

This ferry system travels to Ireland and the continent of Europe, including the Netherlands, Belgium and Spain as well as France. Their more-than-25-year experience in operating the Dover-Calais route has enabled P&O Ferries to offer reasonable fares to customers. This method of travel from England to France is a nice alternative to flying and driving through the Eurotunnel. Zipping over to France or other parts of Europe is easy since cars can drive off the boat and go.

Less costly than planes and more scenic than a tunnel, the ferries also offer food and beverage options to customers for the 90-minute ride. Bars, coffee shops and full-service restaurants are available on each ferry to enhance the trip even more. The Brasserie is on all boats except the Pride of Burgundy. This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

How could this be any better? The ferry could have entertainment for the children, and it does have a variety of activities. Younger children can go to the Junior Kids Club, for ages 5-11 years, and explore their creativity with colouring, balloon modelling, painting, face-painting, arts & crafts and music. They also have a choice of being in a quieter space to watch videos. The kids may display their art and be awarded a certificate as well.

Older children can take advantage of the video game arcade, and there is a shop on board that carries games, toys and confections. Parents are responsible for children of all ages at all times, but exploring the ferry and sightseeing on deck are two other fun ways to enjoy the ride with the kids. Many on-board food and drink locales have kids’ menus to make it easier for parents and grandparents. Heinz baby food is part of the kids’ menu because tiny guests need sustenance, too.

Pets may also go on the ferry and must stay in the car. Some pets need to have DEFRA approval, and customers can find information about this on the website noted -here- Foot passengers may not bring pets onto the ferry.

P&O Ferries between Dover and Calais take foot traffic, bicycles and cars, and it’s necessary to arrive early so the ferry can keep to the schedule. Foot passengers have restricted hours both ways and should note the schedule before arriving at either port. Customers who need special accommodations for mobility issues can arrange parking a car and boarding and departing the boat with P&O Ferries.

Dover-Calais and Calais-Dover routes may have a total of 46 sailing times per day, around the clock. A common fare for two people in a car, with no caravan or trailer, is £39 in the “saver fare” category going one way from Dover. Very late-night fares are £15, but onboard facilities are reduced. Flexi fares within these limits are £59 and Flexi Extra fares are £124.50. These fare options allow for schedule flexibility and refunds in certain situations.

The ferry company advises buying tickets as far in advance as possible to save money and secure a space on the boat. It is possible to show up to the port and buy tickets for the next available ferry, but space is an issue and rates may be different. Riding a P&O ferry is a good start to the trip.