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UK Ferry Operator

DFDS

Danish operator with a strong UK presence. DFDS operates the Dover-Calais and Dover-Dunkirk routes, the overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam crossing, and the Newhaven-Dieppe service.

Routes

DFDS ferry routes

Crossings operated by DFDS that we cover — tap a route for times, prices and the full guide.

About the operator

About DFDS

DFDS is a Danish shipping group and one of the largest ferry operators in Northern Europe. In the UK it is best known for the busy Dover-Calais and Dover-Dunkirk Channel crossings, running modern ships several times an hour at peak times. Dunkirk is a little longer than Calais but lands you straight onto the A16 for Belgium and beyond. On the south coast DFDS operates the four-hour Newhaven-Dieppe route into Normandy, and from the North East its overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam (IJmuiden) mini-cruise sails nightly with cabins, restaurants and entertainment. DFDS carries cars, motorhomes, motorcycles and, on most routes, foot passengers, with fares priced per vehicle plus passengers.

Ports

UK ports served by DFDS

Good to know

DFDS ferries — common questions

Which UK routes does DFDS run?

Dover-Calais and Dover-Dunkirk to France, Newhaven-Dieppe to Normandy, and the overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam crossing to the Netherlands.

Is Dover-Dunkirk cheaper than Dover-Calais?

Often, yes. Dunkirk is around 30 minutes longer but frequently a little cheaper, and it routes you directly onto the A16 motorway towards Belgium.

Does DFDS carry foot passengers on Dover-Calais?

No. The Dover Channel routes are for vehicle passengers only. Foot passengers can travel on the Newcastle-Amsterdam crossing.