Travelling by Ferry

Taking Ferries

While not strictly a mode of travel like the cargo ship, the ferry is a form of transport you may occasionally use, especially in Europe. And it’s true that the ferry market is doing quite well on our continent, including on the Transmanche route, where competition from the Tunnel and air travel hasn’t reduced passenger numbers but has instead improved services.

As with air travel, there are category discounts (for young people, groups, and seniors), packages for those travelling with their vehicle, and high and low seasons. For the longest crossings, cabins may be available on ships that closely resemble cruise ships in terms of facilities, services, and onboard activities (restaurants, shops, pools, saunas, etc.).

When it comes to tickets, you can book in advance (useful during peak periods or if travelling by car), but you can also wait until you arrive to buy them. In fact, many people still do this.

Ferries Around the World

European (and North African) Ferry Routes

• European Ferry Routes

A quick overview of possible destinations and companies from European countries (and North Africa). For more details...

• Baltic Sea Ferry Routes

• Ferry Routes in the North Sea

• UK Ferry Routes

• Cross-Channel Ferry Routes

• Atlantic Ferry Routes

• Ferry Routes in the Western Mediterranean

• Ferry Routes in the Eastern Mediterranean

Rest of the World

• Ferry Routes in the Americas

• Ferry Routes in Asia/Pacific

• Ferry Routes in Africa/Red Sea

Ferry Cruises

• See the article in the "Cruises" guide

If there’s one thing that comes close to a traditional cruise, both in terms of the ship and onboard facilities and services, it’s ferries.

Ferry Companies Index

• See the list of companies

Contact details and service areas for around 80 ferry companies operating in Europe and around the Mediterranean (or the Black Sea).