Dog lying down the deck of a ferry

Travelling with a dog – On the ferry.

Taking your dog on a ferry is one of the easiest and most popular ways to travel with pets between the UK and Europe. Most ferry operators welcome dogs and other pets, but facilities and travel requirements can vary significantly depending on the operator, route and vessel.

Before travelling, it is important to understand your chosen ferry company’s pet policy and ensure your dog has the correct documentation for travel.

Quick Guide to Ferry Travel with Dogs

✓ Most ferry operators allow dogs and other pets

✓ Pets usually travel in your vehicle or in onboard kennels

✓ Pet travel must normally be declared when booking

✓ Some operators charge a small additional pet fee

✓ Check operator-specific pet policies before departure

✓ Ensure all travel documentation is valid before travelling

What to Expect When Travelling with a Dog on a Ferry

As a general rule, dogs travelling on ferries must remain either in your vehicle or in designated onboard kennels during the crossing. The exact arrangements depend on the ferry operator and route. Some vessels also offer pet-friendly cabins or designated pet exercise areas.

When making your booking, you will usually need to declare that you are travelling with a pet. While many ferry operators provide pet travel facilities free of charge, some routes may apply an additional fee.

Because facilities vary considerably, it is always recommended that you check the latest pet travel guidance with your chosen ferry operator before travelling.

Important Travel Documentation

Before travelling with your dog, make sure you have all required documentation and vaccinations in place. Failure to provide the correct paperwork could result in your pet being refused travel or entry to your destination country.

For more information, please read our guide: Travelling with a Dog – Passports and Vaccinations

Ferry Operators and Pet Travel Information

Each ferry operator has slightly different rules regarding travelling with pets. Use the links below to view the latest pet travel policies directly from the ferry companies.

Brittany Ferries

Brittany Ferries offers a range of pet-friendly travel options, including onboard kennels and pet-friendly cabins on selected routes.

https://www.brittany-ferries.co.uk/information/pets-travel-scheme

DFDS

DFDS allows pets on a number of routes and provides dedicated pet travel facilities depending on the vessel and destination.

https://www.dfds.com/en-gb/passenger-ferries/passenger-information/pet-travel

Irish Ferries

Irish Ferries offers pet travel facilities across several routes between Britain, Ireland and continental Europe.

https://www.irishferries.com/uk-en/frequently-asked-questions/top-10-faqs/pets-ireland-britain-routes

P&O Ferries

P&O Ferries permits pet travel on selected routes and provides information on requirements and onboard arrangements.

https://www.poferries.com/en/routes/cairnryan-to-larne/travel-information/travelling-with-a-pet

Stena Line

Stena Line offers a variety of pet travel options including kennels, pet-friendly cabins and vehicle travel on selected routes.

https://www.stenaline.co.uk/travelling-with-pets/irish-sea

FAQ

If you’re planning to travel on a ferry with your pet, you may have a few questions about what to expect. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about ferry travel with pets.

This depends on the ferry operator and route. Many operators require dogs to remain in vehicles or onboard kennels, although some offer pet-friendly cabins and designated pet areas.

Yes. Ferry operators require pet travel to be declared during the booking process.

Many operators allow pets to travel free of charge, but some routes may apply a small fee.

Requirements vary by destination, but most international journeys require a microchip, valid rabies vaccination and the appropriate travel documentation.

Facilities vary by route and vessel. Pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels and vehicle access policies differ between operators, so it is worth comparing options before booking.