Compare before you book
Ferry Tickets: Compare Vehicles, Cabins and Flexibility
Ferry fares depend on more than the crossing. Compare the complete journey with the same passengers, vehicle details and accommodation needs before choosing a ticket.
Start with the exact ports and sailing
Check the full departure and arrival port names, not just the cities or islands. A different port can change the journey to your accommodation. Compare sailing dates, local departure and arrival times and whether the crossing runs overnight.
Allow for travel to the terminal and the operator’s check-in instructions. A short crossing is not automatically the quickest complete journey if the port is harder to reach.
Enter passengers and vehicles accurately
Compare offers for the same number and ages of travellers. If you take a car, motorcycle, campervan or trailer, enter the dimensions and other details requested by the booking provider. Include roof equipment where the operator requires it.
- Correct vehicle category and requested measurements
- All passengers on the booking
- Pets and the arrangements available for them
- Any equipment or accessibility needs that require confirmation
A foot-passenger fare and a fare including a car are different products. Check the operator’s conditions rather than assuming that a vehicle or special arrangement is included.
Include seats, cabins and port travel
Check what accommodation is included in the ticket. A deck or basic seating option, a reserved seat and a cabin can have different prices and conditions. For an overnight sailing, compare the type and occupancy of the accommodation you actually want.
Check meals, parking and other extras separately. If you are travelling with an electric vehicle or unusual equipment, follow the current instructions issued by the operator for that sailing.
Review changes, cancellation and disruption information
Compare flexible and restricted fares separately. Read the operator’s change and cancellation conditions and identify the contact route for timetable changes or disruption. Save the ticket and check-in instructions.
Before payment, confirm names, ports, sailing dates, vehicle details and accommodation. If your trip also includes flights or car hire, leave realistic time between separate bookings and check the terms of each provider.
Put the checklist into practice
Use the partner search to explore current options, then check the final price and terms on the provider’s website.
Affiliate link: we may earn a commission if you book through this link. Availability, prices and conditions belong to the selected provider. The examples in this guide are illustrative, not current offers.
Common questions
Why do two ferry quotes for the same route differ?
They may include different sailing times, passenger details, vehicle categories, seats, cabins or fare conditions. Compare the complete ticket details.
Can I use the displayed car fare for any vehicle?
Do not assume so. Enter the category and dimensions requested by the operator, including relevant trailers or roof equipment, and check the final quote.