FerryConnect

UK → France

Dover → Dunkirk

DFDS’s alternative to Dover–Calais, landing closer to Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. The slightly longer crossing is often quieter, and Dunkirk’s ferry terminal sits right beside the A16 motorway.

⏱ 2h🚢 1 operator📅 Frequent sailings throughout the day and night🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
Book with DFDS→Book on Ferryscanner→

Dover to Dunkirk ferry at a glance

The ferry from Dover to Dunkirk takes 2h across the English Channel, operated by DFDS. This is a vehicle crossing. Typical frequency: frequent sailings throughout the day and night.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-28.

Sources: dfds.com · dfds.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Dunkirk to Dover

DFDS also sails Dunkirk to Dover, taking 2h. Dunkirk to Dover follows the same pattern: DFDS advertises up to 22 crossings a day, each about 2 hours.

Dover to Dunkirk ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Up to 22 DFDS crossings a day, around the clock. Each crossing takes about 2 hours.

Return: Dunkirk to Dover follows the same pattern: DFDS advertises up to 22 crossings a day, each about 2 hours.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official DFDS timetable →Check prices & book on DFDS →

Source: DFDS Dover–Dunkirk route page. Verified 2026-09-28.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Dover and Dunkirk

📐 40 Nautical Miles
Dover⇄Dunkirk
⏱ 2h · 📐 40 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Book direct with the operator

Ready to cross from Dover to Dunkirk?

Book your crossing with DFDS: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with DFDS→Book on Ferryscanner→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
DFDS2hDunkerque Seaways, Dover Seaways, Delft Seaways

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Vehicle required

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

40 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Direct access from Dunkirk ferry terminal to the A16 towards Belgium (Bruges, Ghent) and the A25 to Lille
  • Dover Eastern Docks connects to the A20/M20 towards London

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from DoverDover → Calais1h 30m – 1h 40m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish FerriesAlso sails from DoverCalais → Dover1h 30m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish FerriesOnward from DunkirkRosslare → DunkirkAbout 24h · DFDSNearby alternative crossingNewhaven → Dieppe4h · DFDSNearby alternative crossingHarwich → Hook of Holland6h 30m – 8h · Stena LineNearby alternative crossingHull → Rotterdam (Europoort)11h – 12h (overnight) · P&O Ferries
⚓ Port of Dover guide⛴ All ferries from Dover⛴ All ferries from Dunkirk🧭 Ferries from the UK to Europe🧭 Ferries from the UK to France🌊 English Channel ferries🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dover to Dunkirk better than Dover to Calais?
It depends on where you are driving. Dunkirk is about 45 km further east, so it suits journeys to Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Calais has more frequent sailings and a shorter 1h 30m crossing.
Can you travel from Dover to Dunkirk as a foot passenger?
No. DFDS says you cannot travel as a foot passenger on Dover–Dunkirk, only with a vehicle. Bicycles, motorbikes, vans and motorhomes are accepted. If you are on foot, use P&O Ferries’ Dover–Calais foot-passenger sailings instead.
How long is the Dover to Dunkirk ferry?
As of September 2026, DFDS says the crossing takes about 2 hours in either direction.
How often does the Dover to Dunkirk ferry sail?
Up to 22 DFDS crossings a day, around the clock. Each crossing takes about 2 hours. This is the pattern published in the DFDS Dover–Dunkirk route page (checked 2026-09-28); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Dover to Dunkirk?
DFDS operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Dover to Dunkirk ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Dover to Dunkirk ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Dover from Dunkirk by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 40 nautical miles (roughly 74 km).