Ferry from Dover to Dunkirk
Dover – Dunkirk is the practical alternative to Dover – Calais. We have tested all the main Dover – Calais options ourselves, but not this exact route yet, so we would position Dunkirk as the route to consider when your onward journey points east. The crossing takes around two hours, so it is slightly longer than Calais, but Dunkirk is often more convenient for Belgium, the Netherlands, northern Germany and parts of eastern France. It is a vehicle-only route, which also gives it a more functional, road-trip feel.
Routes
Our experience
We have sailed Dover–Calais with every operator on the route. P&O Ferries stood out for us: competitive fares, modern ships and plenty of clean, comfortable space inside and out on deck. For most travellers heading to France, it’s usually the quickest and best-value way across.
Ferry services from Dover to Dunkirk
DFDS operates the Dover – Dunkirk route, with regular vehicle ferry sailings throughout the day. The crossing takes around two hours and is available for cars, motorhomes, caravans, vans, coaches and other vehicles. Foot passengers are not accepted on this route, so travellers without a vehicle should compare Dover – Calais, Newhaven – Dieppe or one of the longer Brittany Ferries routes instead.
Map with suggested Dover – Dunkirk ferry routes
This map shows ferry routes from Dover to Dunkirk, with crossing times, fares and the ports they sail from. Tap a route for details, tap a port for its sailings, or zoom in for more.
Onboard experience
Dover – Dunkirk is a straightforward roll-on roll-off ferry route designed around drivers. Compared with Dover – Calais, it is a little longer at sea, but that can actually be useful if you want a proper break from the road. On board, expect the short-crossing basics: seating areas, food and drink, shopping and space to stretch your legs. It is not a cruise-ferry experience, but it is a practical way to pause the drive before continuing into France, Belgium or the Netherlands.
From Dunkirk towards Belgium, the Netherlands and eastern France
Dunkirk sits further east than Calais, which makes it useful if your journey continues towards Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, northern Germany or eastern France. Lille, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp are all logical onward directions, while travellers heading to Paris, Normandy or western France will usually find Calais or one of the western Channel routes more direct.
By car
This route is best for travellers with a car who want a practical Channel crossing but do not necessarily need to arrive in Calais. If your route continues east or north-east after landing in France, Dunkirk can reduce backtracking and may feel calmer than the busier Calais corridor. If your destination is Paris, Normandy, Brittany or western France, compare carefully before choosing it.
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By campervan
Dover – Dunkirk can work well for campervans and motorhomes, especially for road trips towards Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany or Scandinavia. The longer crossing gives you a little more time to eat, use the facilities and reset before driving on. As with all short Channel crossings, book vehicle dimensions correctly and allow extra time at Dover during busy holiday periods.
Still weighing up your options?
We have crossed the Channel to France more times than we can count, on most of the routes and with most of the operators. Tell us where you are starting and we will point you to the smartest way across.