Ferries to Scandinavia | Drive to Scandinavia

Travelling from the UK to Scandinavia by ferry is no longer as straightforward as it once was.

In the past, direct routes such as Newcastle to Bergen made crossing the North Sea relatively easy. However, all direct ferries to Scandinavia from the UK have now been discontinued. But that doesn’t mean your journey has to be difficult. It simply requires a little more planning and a multi-step route.

Today, the most popular option is to sail to mainland Europe and then continue your journey overland. Most travellers begin with a ferry from the UK to the Netherlands or France. For example, you can take the Newcastle to Amsterdam route with DFDS, the Harwich to Hook of Holland crossing with Stena Line, or sail from Dover to Calais or Dover to Dunkirk. These crossings place you in the ideal position to drive or take onward ferries to reach Scandinavia.

Once on the continent, you can travel north through Germany and Denmark. If you’re heading to Norway or Sweden, you’ll likely need to take a second ferry. Several operators run services from northern Denmark — particularly from ports like Hirtshals — to destinations such as Kristiansand, Oslo, Gothenburg, and others. These crossings are efficient, well-serviced, and provide a smooth continuation of your journey.

Although the route involves more steps than a direct ferry, it’s still a practical way to reach Scandinavia, especially for those travelling with a car, campervan, or motorcycle. You also have the opportunity to explore parts of mainland Europe along the way, adding value and flexibility to your trip.

If you’re planning to visit Norway, Sweden, Finland or Denmark by ferry, be sure to explore our regional destination guides. You’ll find advice on planning your route, choosing ferry connections, and making the most of your time in Scandinavia.