How to find the cheapest ferry crossings
Ferry fares move with demand just like flights. A few simple habits — flexible dates, off-peak sailings and price alerts — can save you a serious amount on the same crossing.
Book early, but watch the calendar
Fares generally rise as a sailing fills, so booking weeks ahead usually beats booking last-minute, particularly in school holidays and on summer weekends.
Use a fare calendar to compare a whole month at a glance. Shifting your outbound by a day or two — or sailing mid-week instead of at the weekend — is the single biggest lever on price.
Choose off-peak sailings
The earliest and latest departures of the day, and overnight crossings mid-week, are almost always cheaper than the popular late-morning and evening sailings.
If you have a vehicle, an off-peak crossing also means quieter car decks and a faster drive-off at the other end.
Set a price alert and travel light on extras
Set a price alert for your route and target date, and let us email you when the fare drops to your threshold — no need to check back daily.
Finally, only add the cabins, meals and flexible fares you will actually use. On short daytime crossings a standard fare and a reserved seat are usually all you need.
Common questions
When is the cheapest time to book a ferry?+
As a rule, several weeks ahead for peak dates and mid-week for the crossing itself. Set a price alert so you are told the moment your route drops to your target price.
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