P&O Ferries established ferry services in the United Kingdom in the late 1960’s in the North Sea and the English Channel and since then they have remained one of the most popular routes for travel between the UK and Europe.
P&O Ferries introduced a new vessel to their fleet in 2011 – Spirit of Britain, 49,000 gross tonnes and 210 meters long making it the largest ferries to operate in the English Channel. This was also the first passenger ferry in the world to comply with the new SOLAS “Safe Return to Port” requirements.
P&O receive top ferry operator award
P&O Ferries was named Ferry Operator of the Year at the British Travel Awards 2011, which is widely regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the travel industry.
The company has been voted Best Cross Channel Operator and Best Ferry Operator (other routes) for its services from Hull to Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.
Foot Passengers on P&O Ferries
P&O Ferries are currently the only carrier of foot passengers on the Dover-Calais-Dover route. Access to the Ferry port if not by car can be by train to Dover Station and then a taxi ride (there is no longer a bus service). Or by Express Coach who operate services from the Port and have a reservation desk at the Travel Centre in the Port offices. Our top tip for foot passengers is to book ahead – although you can usually get on a ferry, it’s not guaranteed and at peak times it might not be possible to get the ferry crossing you want. Also if you book a return on line – it’s cheaper than booking in person at the port or booking a single journey out and then a single journey back.
On board Services and crossing time
The Crossing time for Dover Calais is around 90 minutes plus boarding and offloading time. On board there are plenty of facilities – shops, restaurants, bars, games and at peak times special events such as the 5 minute masseuses, make up testing, wine and whisky tasting etc. Boats have a restaurant and bar – the full English breakfast will keep you going all day. P&O also offer a VIP lounge where for a little extra you can sit in comfort at the top of the boat where you’ll be offered a glass of wine, soft drink or tea/coffee, snacks, newspapers and magazines. You can book the VIP lounge on line or on board – though it’s cheaper to do it on line when you’re making your booking.
