Eurotunnel or Ferry: Choosing The Right Way to Cross the Channel

When planning a trip to Europe, one of the first big decisions you'll need to make is whether to take the Eurotunnel or a ferry to cross the Channel. If you're travelling with a motorhome or campervan, this decision becomes even more important. Both options have their perks, but what’s the best option for a larger vehicle? Let’s look at the details and compare Eurotunnel and ferry options to help plan your next trip.

Eurotunnel or Ferry: The Basics

Before we start looking at which option is best for your motorhome or campervan, let’s consider what each of these services offer.

Eurotunnel

The Eurotunnel is a high-speed rail service that runs between Folkestone in the UK and Coquelles near Calais in France. The train travels under the English Channel, taking passengers and vehicles on a 35-minute journey. The Eurotunnel is a direct route that is highly popular among those seeking to cross the Channel quickly and efficiently.

Ferry

The ferry service, on the other hand, involves a boat crossing the Channel. Ferries typically run between Dover in the UK and Calais or Dunkirk in France. Depending on the operator, the crossing takes between one and a half to two hours. While it’s slightly slower than the Eurotunnel, it can be a more scenic and relaxing experience. There’s plenty of space for vehicles, including motorhomes and campervans.

Eurotunnel or Ferry: What’s Best for Motorhomes and Campervans?

For anyone travelling with a motorhome or campervan, the Eurotunnel and ferry offer very different experiences. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both to help you make the best choice for your trip.

Eurotunnel or Ferry for Larger Vehicles

Eurotunnel

Pros:

1. Speed: If you’re travelling in a motorhome or campervan, you’ll probably be eager to get to your destination. The Eurotunnel offers the fastest crossing, taking just 35 minutes. No long waits in ports, and once you're on the train, you can relax in your vehicle without worrying about sea sickness.
2. Convenience: When you travel on the Eurotunnel, you simply drive your motorhome or campervan onto the train, stay in your vehicle during the crossing, and drive off at the other end. It’s a hassle-free and seamless process, especially if you’re travelling with pets, as they’re allowed to stay in the vehicle during the journey.
3. More Frequent Departures: The Eurotunnel operates throughout the day with frequent departures, so you’re less likely to have to book far in advance. If you’re a last-minute planner, the Eurotunnel offers flexibility.
4. No Sea Conditions: Since the Eurotunnel is underground, you won’t have to worry about rough seas or weather conditions. This can be a real plus if you get nervous on ferries.

Cons:

1. Cost: The Eurotunnel is often more expensive than the ferry, particularly during peak travel times or in the summer months. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, this could be a downside. But the price can vary depending on when you book and how early you do so. Usually, booking in advance can help you secure cheaper fares.

Ferry

Pros:

1. Relaxing Journey: One of the biggest advantages of the ferry is the experience itself. With large passenger areas, restaurants, and viewing decks, you can step out of your motorhome or campervan, stretch your legs, and enjoy the sea views. For anyone travelling with pets, ferries also tend to have pet-friendly facilities, such as pet decks or indoor areas for animals to rest during the crossing.
2. More Space: Ferries tend to have a lot of space for larger vehicles. The loading process is straightforward, and motorhomes and campervans are often placed in dedicated areas. This makes it easier to board and disembark the ferry, especially during busy times when the Eurotunnel might feel more cramped.
3. Possibility of Lower Costs: Depending on the time of year and your booking, ferries can be cheaper than the Eurotunnel. While ferry prices can fluctuate, booking tickets in advance for certain crossings often results in cheaper prices.

Cons:

1. Longer Journey: If you’re in a rush, the ferry can feel like a long journey, taking around 1 ½ to two hours. It’s not as fast as the Eurotunnel, but it has more facilities on board.
2. Weather Dependent: While ferries are generally reliable, the weather can occasionally disrupt services. Strong winds or rough seas can cause delays or cancellations. If you’re more sensitive to seasickness, this could be an issue.
3. Booking in Advance: During peak times, ferries can be heavily booked, especially in the summer months. If you want to ensure a spot on the ferry with your motorhome, it’s important to book early. Some ferry operators even recommend booking several months in advance.
   
   

Things to Know Beforehand getting the Eurotunnel or Ferry

When considering travel via Eurotunnel or ferry, it's important to be aware of specific details that can affect your journey. Below are key considerations for your trip, from LPG regulations to understanding the routes and preparing for the crossing.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

If you’re travelling with a vehicle that runs on LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), it's essential to be aware that Eurotunnel has restrictions on vehicles using LPG for safety reasons. Usually, Eurotunnel does not allow vehicles with full LPG tanks to travel, although some exceptions apply. Ensure that your vehicle complies with their requirements or check ahead to find out if you need to empty the tank or follow specific guidelines. In contrast, ferries may have varying rules, but many operators allow LPG vehicles, though it’s important to confirm the details with the ferry company before booking.

What Are the Routes?

Eurotunnel and ferries operate different routes for crossing between the UK and mainland Europe.

• Eurotunnel runs a direct route through the Channel Tunnel, between Folkestone (UK) and Coquelles (near Calais, France). This is a quick and efficient route, typically taking around 35 minutes.
• Ferry services operate from multiple UK ports, such as Dover, Portsmouth, and Newhaven, to a range of European destinations like Calais, Dunkirk, Le Havre, and others. Ferry crossings generally take longer than the Eurotunnel, depending on the route, typically around two hours for short routes, but some longer crossings can take up to eight hours.
  
  

How to Prepare for getting the Eurotunnel or Ferry

Proper preparation can make your journey smoother, whether you’re taking the Eurotunnel or a ferry.

Eurotunnel:

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure, though it's often recommended to allow more time during busy periods.
• Ensure your vehicle meets Eurotunnel’s size and LPG regulations.
• Check in online for faster boarding and have your booking reference ready at the terminal.
• Be aware that during peak times, traffic congestion can cause delays, so leave plenty of time.

Ferry:

• Arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour before departure to allow for boarding.
• If travelling with pets, confirm pet policies ahead of time as they vary between operators.
• Depending on the crossing time, consider booking accommodations on overnight ferries or checking if facilities are available during your crossing (including food, entertainment, and duty-free shopping).
• For longer ferry journeys, pack snacks, entertainment, and anything you may need during your time on board.

By being aware of the above, you can make sure that your Eurotunnel or ferry trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Eurotunnel or Ferry: Which is Right for You?

When it comes down to deciding between Eurotunnel or the ferry, both have their pros and cons. If you’re travelling in a motorhome or campervan, it depends largely on what is most important for your journey. If speed, convenience, and minimal hassle are important, the Eurotunnel is likely the best option. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a relaxed crossing with more flexibility and a potentially lower cost, the ferry is a fantastic choice.

Ultimately, knowing which service is cheaper is not always easy to determine, as costs fluctuate based on season, availability, and how far in advance you book. To get the best deal, always compare prices early and consider factors like the length of your vehicle and weigh-up comfort versus speed.

If you're still unsure about what will work best for your trip, check out some additional tips and guides over on our Motorhome Blog. Whether you need some advice on Driving to Europe or you want to check out a Portugal Road Trip Itinerary we have lots more tips and insights waiting for you.

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