Motorhome Ferry to England
Routes, prices, vehicle dimensions and tips for your motorhome crossing
- All motorhome ferry routes compared
- Vehicle dimensions and height limits by operator
- Booking and crossing tips
- Driving on the left, insurance and gas cylinders
Route Map
All Ferry Routes at a Glance
Compare the available ferry routes to England for your motorhome.
- Brittany Ferries
- DFDS
- P&O Ferries
- Irish Ferries
- Eurotunnel
- Stena Line
Route Comparison
Motorhome Ferry Routes
English Channel: Calais & Dunkirk to Dover
The fastest connections to England run across the English Channel.
Calais - Dover (P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries): the shortest route, with a crossing of just 90 minutes and up to 15 departures a day. Ideal for motorhomes, since the new P&O Pioneer ferries offer generous vehicle decks.
Dunkirk - Dover (DFDS): around 2 hours' crossing, often cheaper than sailing from Calais, with up to 12 departures a day.
Overnight Ferries from the Netherlands
For motorhome travellers arriving from mainland Europe, this is the most comfortable option: sail overnight to England without a long drive through France.
Rotterdam - Hull (P&O Ferries): overnight ferry, 11-12 hours, departing 20:30. Note: a 2.39 m height limit applies on the lower vehicle decks – taller motorhomes are parked on the open upper deck.
Amsterdam (IJmuiden) - Newcastle (DFDS): overnight ferry, 16-17 hours, departing 17:30, with a generous height limit of up to 4 m. Newcastle is an ideal starting point for northern England and Scotland.
Vehicle Dimensions and Height Limits
When booking, you must give the exact dimensions of your motorhome – including fittings such as bike racks, roof boxes and tow bars.
DFDS
| Category | Max. height | Max. length |
|---|---|---|
| Small motorhome | 4.00 m | 7.00 m |
| Standard motorhome | 4.00 m | 10.00 m |
| Large motorhome | 4.00 m | 12.00 m |
P&O Ferries (Rotterdam - Hull)
Height limit for the lower decks: 2.39 m. Taller vehicles are parked on the upper deck.
Irish Ferries (Dover - Calais)
Max. 2.25 m height and 8.00 m length.
Tips for the Crossing
- Book early: motorhome spaces sell out quickly in high season.
- Give the right dimensions: measure your vehicle including all fittings (bike rack, awning, roof box).
- Gas cylinders: LPG cylinders must be switched off and all valves closed for the crossing.
- No access to the vehicle deck: the vehicle deck is closed during the crossing, so take everything important with you into the cabin.
- Fridge: switch your fridge to 12V or battery power before boarding.
Driving in England
- Left-hand traffic: Britain drives on the left. Take extra care at roundabouts and when turning.
- Headlights: adjust or mask your headlights so you don't dazzle oncoming traffic.
- Speed limits: 30 mph (about 48 km/h) in built-up areas, 60 mph (about 97 km/h) on rural roads, 70 mph (about 113 km/h) on motorways.
- ETA: since 25 February 2026, all EU citizens need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) via the UK ETA app.
- Insurance: carry a Green Card or other proof of vehicle insurance.
Common Questions
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the motorhome ferry crossing
How much does the motorhome ferry to England cost?+
Prices depend on your vehicle's length and height, the route, the season and how far ahead you book. The short Channel crossings such as Calais - Dover are the cheapest on pure ferry fare, while the overnight routes Rotterdam - Hull and Amsterdam - Newcastle cost more once a cabin is included. The binding price for your motorhome is shown when you book on the relevant route page.
How big can my motorhome be?+
It depends on the operator. DFDS allows up to 4 m in height and 12 m in length. P&O Ferries (Rotterdam - Hull) has a 2.39 m height limit on the lower decks. Irish Ferries caps vehicles at 2.25 m height and 8 m length. Measure your vehicle including all fittings.
Can I access my motorhome during the crossing?+
No, the vehicle deck is closed for safety reasons during the crossing. Take everything important with you before boarding – clothing, medication, charging cables, entertainment for the kids.
What are the rules for gas cylinders?+
Gas cylinders (LPG) must be switched off for the entire crossing, with all valves closed. This is checked at boarding. The cylinders may stay on board but must be secured.
What do I need to enter England?+
Since 25 February 2026, all EU citizens need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). You'll also need a valid passport, proof of vehicle insurance (a Green Card is recommended) and your vehicle registration document. Britain drives on the left. Full details on the ETA are on the Entry Requirements for England page.