Since 2009, DFDS has also been sailing on the English Channel. First from Dunkirk to Dover, now also from the more famous Calais to Dover. After all, the crossing to England is short: less than two hours. But in addition to sailing, there is also the tunnel. A frequently asked question is: do I take the ferry or the tunnel to England?
Crossing the Channel by ferry
Since I get seasick easily myself and am slightly claustrophobic, I decided to put it to the test. From Dunkirk I took the ferry to Dover. The route to Dunkirk is quieter than to Calais and Dunkirk is also the nearest port on the canal from the Netherlands. Driving on board also went quickly. Colleagues on site said that the ships moor, unload and load and sail away again within 20 minutes. Wow, I was impressed!
Once the car was parked, I could stretch my legs and discover the ship. Sailing feels like a well-deserved break after a three-hour car ride. Cup of coffee with a view of the sea, a sanitary stop and then on to the deck. With the sun on my face, the White Cliffs soon appeared. Wonderful! Holiday feeling all around. There is hardly any time to get seasick. Within two hours you are back in the car, ready to discover England.
By Train through the Tunnel
The return journey went from Folkstone with the Eurotunnel, a fifteen minute drive from Dover. Promise: I have taken off my blue DFDS glasses so that I can make a fair comparison. Where I was already impressed by the speed of driving on board the DFDS ferries, the tunnel service is not inferior to this. Everything is extremely professional. When I enter the shuttle, I am reassured. Not a dark, industrial train, but an illuminated space. Pfew! The only thing that still gnaws: as long as nothing happens.
For a moment I have time to stretch my legs. During the crossing I stay in the car. There is a big difference there. Where I experience the ferry as a nice break from the car ride, this feels like part of the ride. No room for a fresh cup of coffee. And unfortunately: no sun and no White Cliffs that disappear from view.
Ferry or Tunnel to England: The final verdict
By ferry to England
54x crossings daily between Dunkirk/Calais and Dover
Travel by car, camper, caravan or motorbike possible
Crossing takes up to 2 hours
Holiday feeling starts on board: views of the White Cliffs and many catering establishments. A real break from the car journey
With the tunnel to England
43x trips per day from Calais to Folkestone
Travel by car, camper, caravan or motorbike possible
The train journey takes 35 minutes
No real 'break' of the ride
The choice 'ferry or tunnel' is of course up to everyone for themselves. In terms of speed, the tunnel wins, but it is quite pricey and also quite boring. You can't just stretch your legs or get something to eat. For a lower price and a more pleasant travel experience, I will go for the ferry to Dover next time. And whether you're seasick or claustrophobic... Don't be put off by either. My experience: it's not that bad!
