Ferries from Plymouth to France
Plymouth is not the busiest UK ferry port for France, but it is a very useful departure point for travellers from Devon, Cornwall and the wider South West. The main route is Plymouth-Roscoff, operated by Brittany Ferries, which lands in western Brittany. If you are looking for the widest choice of French destinations, Portsmouth is usually stronger. But for western France, Brittany and travellers starting in the South West, Plymouth can be the most logical option.
Routes
Our experience
We sailed from Saint-Malo to Portsmouth with Brittany Ferries as a family, and this day crossing felt much more like part of the holiday than just transport. Saint-Malo is a brilliant place to leave from, the views on departure are beautiful, and there was enough on board to keep the children busy during the crossing. It is not the fastest way to England, but if you are travelling from Brittany or western France, it is a relaxed and very logical route Between the UK and France.
Ferry services from Plymouth to France
There is currently one main ferry route from Plymouth to France: the Brittany Ferries service to Roscoff. This route gives direct access to western Brittany and is especially useful for travellers heading to Brittany, the Atlantic coast or western France. For crossing times, onboard facilities and ticket information, see our dedicated Plymouth to Roscoff ferry guide.
Map with suggested Plymouth – France ferry routes
This map shows ferry routes from Plymouth to France, 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
The routes from Poole are operated by Brittany Ferries. Depending on the sailing and season, passengers can choose between daytime and overnight crossings. Facilities vary by vessel but generally include restaurants, lounges, bars and cabin accommodation on longer sailings.
Why consider Plymouth
- Plymouth is one of the most useful ferry ports for travellers from Devon, Cornwall and the South West.
- The route lands in Roscoff, a good starting point for Brittany, western France and Atlantic coast road trips.
- Choosing Plymouth can save a long drive to Portsmouth, Newhaven or Dover before your ferry journey begins.
By car
Boarding in Plymouth can save a long drive across southern England before the ferry, especially if your destination is Brittany or western France.
| Destination | Distance from Roscoff | Drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Brest | 40 miles | 1h |
| Quimper | 65 miles | 1h 30m |
| Saint-Malo | 125 miles | 2h 30m |
| Nantes | 190 miles | 3h 30m |
| La Rochelle | 250 miles | 4h 30m |
Compare & book
Pick your route to see live times and prices.
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By campervan
Vehicle space can be limited in peak season, so booking early is recommended. Roscoff is by the way a good starting point for slower road trips through Brittany and along the Atlantic coast.
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.