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Ferries from Portsmouth to France

Ferries from Portsmouth to France
The best crossings from Portsmouth

There are several ways to reach France by ferry from Portsmouth, depending on where in France you are headed. This guide compares the nearest crossings, where they land, and which works best for the north, Normandy or further south, so you can pick the route that suits your trip.

best overnight
Portsmouth Ouistreham (Caen)
5h45 – 7h
From£114
Foot passengeryes
Visit Brittany Ferries
alternative
Portsmouth Cherbourg
3h – 9h
From£135
Foot passengeryes
Visit Brittany Ferries
Our experience

We sailed overnight from Portsmouth to Cherbourg on Brittany Ferries’ *Santoña*, and this was one of those crossings where the ferry genuinely made the journey easier. The cabins were comfortable, the ship felt modern, and the children were not tied to their seats for hours: they could move around, explore and wind down before bed. Sleeping through the crossing meant we arrived in Cherbourg well rested and ready to continue through France.

closest to Paris
Portsmouth Le Havre
5h30 – 6h30
From£114
Foot passengeryes
Visit Brittany Ferries

Ferry services from Portsmouth to France

Several operators serve the crossings within reach of Portsmouth; compare them to find the best fit.

Crossing the Channel to France

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.