Taking your car on a ferry: everything you need to know

Bringing a car, campervan or motorbike on a ferry is often cheaper and far more relaxing than flying and hiring at the other end. Here is how vehicle crossings actually work and how to book the right space first time.

How vehicle fares are calculated

Ferry operators price vehicles mainly by length and height, not weight. A standard car under about 5 metres long and 1.8 metres high sits in the base bracket; roof boxes, bikes on the back, trailers and raised suspensions can push you into a taller or longer band that costs more.

That is why our search asks for your vehicle type and, for larger vehicles, its dimensions. Getting the height and length right avoids a surprise at check-in, where staff can re-measure and re-charge you if you have under-declared.

What to measure before you book

Measure your vehicle at its tallest and longest points with everything you will travel with fitted: roof bars, aerials, bikes, and any towbar-mounted rack. Round up to the nearest 10 centimetres to stay on the safe side.

If you are towing, most operators treat the car-plus-trailer as a single length. Declare the combined length so the right amount of deck space is reserved for you.

At the port: driving on and off

Arrive within the check-in window shown on your ticket — usually 45 to 90 minutes before departure for vehicles. You will be given a lane and boarding card, then directed onto the car deck by the crew.

Leave your vehicle in gear or with the handbrake firmly on, note your deck and stairwell, and take anything you will need for the crossing with you — car decks are closed to passengers while at sea.

Common questions

Is it cheaper to take my own car or hire one abroad?+

For trips longer than a few days, taking your own car on the ferry usually beats flying plus car hire once you add insurance, fuel and airport transfers — and you avoid unfamiliar hire terms.

Can I stay in my campervan during the crossing?+

No. Car and vehicle decks are sealed for safety once sailing, so you travel in the passenger areas. On overnight routes you can book a cabin.