Important Onboard Information | Passenger Information

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Duty Free Shop Onboard Dover-Dunkirk Ship

Onboard information

Find out everything you need to know about travelling with pets or children, plus onboard safety. Find out about shopping Duty Free, dining in our fantastic onboard restaurants & cafés, plus information about our other onboard facilities. At DFDS, we want to ensure a comfortable crossing with excellent facilities. Read on to find out more!

Onboard information for UK-France routes

Leaving your pet in the vehicle
As your pet must remain in the vehicle, please make sure they are fed/have food available and have water in a spill safe container.

We recommend keeping your pet happy by leaving adequate ventilation, space for your pet to move, and absorbent bedding in the vehicle. Bringing your pet's familiar toys can also help them to feel more comfortable.

*Please note that pets cannot access public areas. On our Newhaven – Dieppe route, foot passengers can travel with a pet but must book a kennel for their dog.

Assistance & Guide dogs

Onboard DFDS we accept assistance dogs who are recognised by Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes.

The above programmes ensure assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.

If travelling with an assistance dog it is essential you notify DFDS and confirm the dog complies with the Pet Travel Scheme. You should also note that sea travel can be distressing for animals and the safety and comfort of all our passengers should not be compromised. You will be responsible for the welfare of the dog at all times. There is no fee to bring your assistance dog onboard, however, you will be asked to provide documentation.

Emotional Support Animals

In the UK, Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that assistance & guide dogs currently are. Emotional Support Animals can travel with us however they will have to follow the same rules set out for our regular pets, such as:

Stay in Vehicle during crossing (All UK – France routes only)
Stay in Kennels during crossing (Newcastle - Amsterdam & Newhaven - Dieppe only)
Stay in pet friendly cabin (Newcastle – Amsterdam only)
Pet ticket fee payable for adding pets to crossing on all routes
More information can be found here: Assistance Dogs International International - Guide Dog Federation information for assistance dog owners - ADUK

All our crew are first aid trained. We do not have any medical facilities onboard, so you need to make sure you are fit and well to travel. We also recommend that passengers have travel insurance in case of emergency.

Each member of our crew is trained in all necessary safety measures and procedures and will immediately follow these in the event of danger.

At each departure, safety instructions are communicated to the passengers through the loudspeaker and displayed on the TVs. You’ll find more information on security measures in brochures and evacuation plans in each cabin. If you have any questions, please contact a member of staff.

NOTE ON ISPS: The ISPS (International Code for the Protection of Ships and Port Facilities), which has been operational in all ports and ships since 01.07.2004, requires companies to perform screening and checking of passengers, their luggage and vehicles. All passengers must have valid identification documents and present them when requested at the time of boarding.

Cash is accepted in GBP and EUR, and there is a currency exchange onboard the Dover - Calais/Dunkirk route where you can change any currency. Most major credit cards are accepted onboard including MasterCard and Visa. Ferries on our Dieppe - Newhaven route do not have currency exchange. Please note we do not have an ATM onboard.

When purchasing Duty Free, there is a limit to the number of products you can bring back. Take a look at our handy infographic for clear information on how much Duty Free you can land. Your allowance will vary depending on whether you are travelling to an EU country from the UK or returning to the UK from the EU.

https://www.gov.uk/bringing-goods-into-uk-personal-use/arriving-in-Great-Britain
https://www.douane.gouv.fr/fiche/volume-and-value-based-customs-and-tax-allowances

Free Allowance

Onboard our Dover to France routes we have 2 restaurants and 1 café.

Lighthouse Café

From savoury wraps & snacks to a sweet scioche, from coffee to chocolate cake, there's something for everyone at the Lighthouse Café.

7 Seas Restaurant

With panoramic windows providing spectacular sea views, our 7 Seas restaurant serves a variety of delicious hot and cold dishes at affordable prices.

Horizon Restaurant

Enjoy a range of freshly made pizzas, pastas and salads at the Horizon Restaurant. Once you’ve placed your order, sit back and wait for your buzzer to sound, then collect your freshly made food and enjoy.

While close to land, your mobile phone will connect to your normal network if available. While in open sea, mobile communication is possible by using satellite technology by international roaming. The availability of this service is dependent on your mobile network and tariff plan.

Neither DFDS nor its satellite supplier sets the tariffs for use of this service. The final charge applied to your mobile account will be determined by your own mobile operator. It is important you contact your mobile network supplier to confirm relevant international roaming tariffs prior to use.

From 1 January 2021, EU rules governing data and roaming charges no longer apply. Some mobile phone providers have said they will continue free data roaming benefits for their customers, so please check with your provider before travelling to the EU.

Note that a new law means that you will now be protected from incurring mobile data charges above £45 without you knowing.

Consumption of your own alcohol onboard is prohibited, including alcohol purchased from the onboard Sea Shop. Only alcohol purchased from the onboard bar & restaurant may be consumed.

Please keep your receipts from the bar as you may be requested to present them.

Excessive intake of alcohol is not permitted. For safety reasons you must behave properly at all times. Abusive or antisocial behaviour will be not tolerated.

If you do not comply with our behaviour policy you shall be subject to an additional surcharge.

Smoking, which includes e-cigarettes, is not permitted in passenger cabins and public areas, including corridors, halls, staircases and arcades. Smoking onboard the ship is permitted in designated areas only, which are appropriately marked including the relevant signs. An additional EUR 200 minimum surcharge shall be applied for smoking in areas other than those specifically designated (which corresponds to the value of the cleaning services to be ordered by DFDS).

Failure to comply with listed rules may result in being blacklisted from DFDS vessels.

Further information can be found in our Terms & Conditions, chapter 13 'Your behaviour'.

At DFDS, it is very important to us that our guests have the best possible experience onboard. The fresh sea, blue skies and beautiful sea air are always a good starting point for a wonderful travel experience. However, we are also aware that not all our passengers are equally seaworthy. Fortunately, something can be done about this.

A single seasickness pill before departure can create peace and ensure that the journey can be enjoyed to the fullest without disruption. In addition, it is recommended not to travel on an empty stomach.

However, in April 2022, the Danish Medicines Agency decided that only pharmacies should be allowed to sell and dispense seasickness pills as over-the-counter medicines. Unfortunately, this means that DFDS, like other Danish passenger shipping companies, is no longer allowed to dispense seasickness pills, either in packages or individually.

While we wait for an exemption permit, we recommend purchasing the necessary seasickness preparations at the pharmacy before departure.

Onboard information for Amsterdam-Newcastle route

Pet-friendly cabins
Our pet friendly cabins mean your pet can stay in your cabin with you for the entire journey.

Leaving your pet in the vehicle*: *This is not applicable for dogs.
As your pet must remain in the vehicle, please make sure they are fed/have food available and have water in a spill safe container. We recommend keeping your pet happy by leaving adequate ventilation, space for your pet to move, and absorbent bedding in the vehicle. Bringing your pet's familiar toys can also help them to feel more comfortable. Please agree a visiting times with Guest Services Desk.

Kennel dimensions and pet sizes
Please ensure your pet will have suitable space within the kennel dimensions described below on our Newcastle-Amsterdam ships. The correct size kennel will need to be selected at the time of booking.

Assistance & Guide dogs
Onboard DFDS we accept assistance dogs who are recognised by Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes.

The above programmes ensure assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.

If travelling with an assistance dog it is essential you notify DFDS and confirm the dog complies with the Pet Travel Scheme. You should also note that sea travel can be distressing for animals and the safety and comfort of all our passengers should not be compromised. You will be responsible for the welfare of the dog at all times. There is no fee to bring your assistance dog onboard, however, you will be asked to provide documentation.

Emotional Support Animals
In the UK, Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that assistance & guide dogs currently are. Emotional Support Animals can travel with us however they will have to follow the same rules set out for our regular pets, such as:

Stay in Vehicle during crossing (All UK – France routes only)
Stay in Kennels during crossing (Newcastle - Amsterdam & Newhaven - Dieppe only)
Stay in pet friendly cabin (Newcastle – Amsterdam only)
Pet ticket fee payable for adding pets to crossing on all routes
More information can be found here: Assistance Dogs International International Guide Dog Federation information for assistance dog owners - ADUK

*Please note that pets cannot access public areas, but can go to designated areas and use the toilet here.

Children up to 3 years
Children up to 3 years of age travel for free, provided that no additional bed is required. It is not allowed to bring your own baby beds or camping beds in the cabin. This is due to safety regulations. For Commodore cabins, it is possible to reserve a baby bed in advance. These cabins are more spacious and extra beds won't block the passage.

If you would like your baby to have their own bed, it is possible to book a more spacious cabin. We have low bed rails available at the reception on board. This rack can be mounted in front of the mattress and prevents the risk of falling out of bed while sleeping.

Children up to 11 years old:
The rates for children on our website apply to children from 4 to 11 years (unless stated otherwise). This rate is based on your own bed onboard.

Child discount in restaurants:
In the buffet restaurant, Explorer's Kitchen, children receive a discount for both dinner and breakfast. The North Sea Bistro à la carte restaurant offers a discount on dinner compared to the adult meal price. Click here for more information about food onboard .

Children's entertainment:
The children will never be bored in the onboard Kids' Club with Jack the Pirate. In addition, children's entertainment is organised onboard with games and crafts. Onboard Princess Seaways there will be an employee who speaks English and some Dutch. An employee who speaks English will be onboard King Seaways.

Children travelling with another surname:
Parents with a different surname to their children sometimes have problems with checking their personal details at a port. If this is the case, we advise you to complete a form. More information and the application form can be found on the website of defensie.nl. This applies to both the IJmuiden - Newcastle route and Dunkirk/Calais - Dover route.

All our crew are first aid trained. We do not have any medical facilities onboard, so you need to make sure you are fit and well to travel. We also recommend that passengers have travel insurance in case of emergency.

Each member of our crew is trained in all necessary safety measures and procedures and will immediately follow these in the event of danger.

At each departure, safety instructions are communicated to the passengers through the loudspeaker and displayed on the TVs. You’ll find more information on security measures in brochures and evacuation plans in each cabin. If you have any questions, please contact a member of staff.

NOTE ON ISPS: The ISPS (International Code for the Protection of Ships and Port Facilities), which has been operational in all ports and ships since 01.07.2004, requires companies to perform screening and checking of passengers, their luggage and vehicles. All passengers must have valid identification documents and present them when requested at the time of boarding.

Cash is accepted in GBP and EUR, and there is a currency exchange onboard where you can change any currency. Most major credit cards are accepted onboard including MasterCard and Visa. Please note we do not have an ATM onboard.

When purchasing Duty Free, there is a limit to the number of products you can bring back. Take a look at our handy infographic for clear information on how much Duty Free you can land. Your allowance will vary depending on whether you are travelling to an EU country from the UK or returning to the UK from the EU.

https://www.gov.uk/bringing-goods-into-uk-personal-use/arriving-in-Great-Britain

https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/belastingdienst/individuals/abroad_and_customs/luggage/from_a_non_eu_country/travelling_from_outside_eu

Duty Free Allowance.

Onboard our Newcastle - Amsterdam - Newcastle route we have 2 restaurants and 1 cafe.

North Sea Bistro:
Our expertly trained chefs are our heroes of the kitchen, bringing to life carefully sourced regional and seasonal ingredients to create beautiful dishes to please every palate. The brand-new à la carte menu gives you a choice of delicious starters, mains and desserts, from mouth-watering rib eye steaks to pan fried scallops with a chorizo twist. Make the most of the unique atmosphere and enjoy a taste of luxury as you sail.

Explorers Kitchen:
Embark on a globetrotting gourmet adventure in Explorer’s Kitchen which offers both continental and cooked breakfasts as well as a wide selection of international dishes for your evening meal. We all know enjoying great food is one of the best parts of a holiday so come along to Explorer’s Kitchen to discover the culinary delights of the continent and beyond. International, all-you-can-eat buffet Kids under 3 eat free Vegetarian & vegan options

Coffee Crew Cafe:
Serving up some seriously sweet treats, head to Coffee Crew and indulge a little. Why not? You're on holiday!

Wash it down with your favourite Starbucks® drink, whether that is a cappuccino, latte, tea, hot chocolate or even the famous Frappuccino in our fully compostable cups.

More information on restaurants can be found here.

While close to land, your mobile phone will connect to your normal network if available. While in open sea, mobile communication is possible by using satellite technology by international roaming. The availability of this service is dependent on your mobile network and tariff plan.

Neither DFDS nor its satellite supplier sets the tariffs for use of this service. The final charge applied to your mobile account will be determined by your own mobile operator. It is important you contact your mobile network supplier to confirm relevant international roaming tariffs prior to use.

From 1 January 2021 EU rules governing data and roaming charges will no longer apply. Some mobile phone providers have said they will continue free data roaming benefits for their customers, so please check with your provider before travelling to the EU.

Note that a new law means that you will now be protected from incurring mobile data charges above £45 without you knowing.

Consumption of your own alcohol onboard is prohibited, including alcohol purchased from the onboard Sea Shop. Only alcohol purchased from the onboard bar & restaurant may be consumed.

Please keep your receipts from the bar as you may be requested to present them.

Excessive intake of alcohol is not permitted. For safety reasons you must behave properly at all times. Abusive or antisocial behaviour will be not tolerated.

If you do not comply with our behaviour policy you shall be subject to an additional surcharge.

Smoking, which includes e-cigarettes, is not permitted in passenger cabins and public areas, including corridors, halls, staircases and arcades. Smoking onboard the ship is permitted in designated areas only, which are appropriately marked including the relevant signs. An additional EUR200 minimum surcharge shall be applied for smoking in areas other than those specifically designated (which corresponds to the value of the cleaning services to be ordered by DFDS).

Failure to comply with listed rules may result in being blacklisted from DFDS vessels.

Further information can be found in our Terms & Conditions, chapter 13 'Your behaviour'.

At DFDS, it is very important to us that our guests have the best possible experience onboard. The fresh sea, blue skies and beautiful sea air are always a good starting point for a wonderful travel experience. However, we are also aware that not all our passengers are equally seaworthy. Fortunately, something can be done about this.

A single seasickness pill before departure can create peace and ensure that the journey can be enjoyed to the fullest without disruption. In addition, it is recommended not to travel on an empty stomach.

However, in April 2022, the Danish Medicines Agency decided that only pharmacies should be allowed to sell and dispense seasickness pills as over-the-counter medicines. Unfortunately, this means that DFDS, like other Danish passenger shipping companies, is no longer allowed to dispense seasickness pills, either in packages or individually.

While we wait for an exemption permit, we recommend purchasing the necessary seasickness preparations at the pharmacy before departure.

Onboard information for Copenhagen-Frederikshavn-Oslo route

Children up to 3 years:
Children up to 3 years of age travel for free, provided that no additional bed is required. It is not allowed to bring your own baby beds or camping beds in the cabin. This is due to safety regulations. For Commodore cabins, it is possible to reserve a baby bed in advance. These cabins are more spacious and extra beds won't block the passage.

If you would like your baby to have their own bed, it is possible to book a more spacious cabin. We have low bed rails available at the reception on board. This rack can be mounted in front of the mattress and prevents the risk of falling out of bed while sleeping.

Children up to 8 years:
The Pirate Club
Our DFDS Pirate Club is a hit with all children. Our children’s entertainers provide fun activities for your little ones. Here your kids can play with a pirate, draw and participate in fun competitions. It's also free to join!

Treasure Hunts
The pirates onboard our ship have created a treasure hunt! The pirates have been hiding puzzles all around the ship. When you solve the question, you get a clue to find the next item, until you eventually find your way to the treasure. Its free to play and there are some great prizes to be won.

Children up to 11 years:
Children's Vouchers
You can also buy a childrens voucher to access even more fun activities! These can be purchased online or onboard the ships, at the reception, for 100 DKK per child.

The Children's Voucher includes:

Entrance to the 'Bubble Zone' pool area
2 tokens for the SEGA Key Master
1 Jack the Pirate bottle or lunch box and pirate poster
1 ice cream free of choice
2 tickets to the horse race in Columbus Club
1 fun children's drink free of charge

Child discount in restaurants

In the buffet restaurant 7 Seas, children receive a discount for both dinner and breakfast. The Explorer à la carte restaurant offers the Pirate menu for a special price, and our pizza & pasta restaurant, Little Italy, offers half price for half portions.

All our crew are first aid trained. We do not have any medical facilities onboard, so you need to make sure you are fit and well to travel. We also recommend that passengers have travel insurance in case of emergency.

Each member of our crew is trained in all necessary safety measures and procedures and will immediately follow these in the event of danger.

At each departure, safety instructions are communicated to the passengers through the loudspeaker and displayed on the TVs. You’ll find more information on security measures in brochures and evacuation plans in each cabin. If you have any questions, please contact a member of staff.

NOTE ON ISPS: The ISPS (International Code for the Protection of Ships and Port Facilities), which has been operational in all ports and ships since 01.07.2004, requires companies to perform screening and checking of passengers, their luggage and vehicles. All passengers must have valid identification documents and present them when requested at the time of boarding.

Cash is accepted in DKK, NOK, and SEK. It is possible to pay with most major credit and debit cards except for American Express and Forbrugsforeningskort. There is a currency exchange onboard where it is possible to exchange from DKK, NOK, SEK, EUR, USD, GBP, and PLN to the following currencies: DKK, NOK, SEK, and EUR. Please be aware we do not have an ATM onboard.

All purchases made onboard in our tax-free Sea Shop are subject to customs rules and regulations of the arrival country. There is a limit on the number of products you can bring in the form of beer, wine, fine spirits, and tobacco including snus. You can read more about tax free shopping here.

Denmark: https://skat.dk/data.aspx?oid=2236523
Norway: https://www.toll.no/no/varer/alkohol-og-tobakk/kvote/ & https://www.toll.no/no/handle-i-utlandet/verdigrensa/

Onboard our Oslo-Frederikshavn-Copenhagen route, you will find three restaurants. For our coffee lovers, we also have a Coffee Crew café.

Explorer Restaurant
Experience the aroma of tender meat being roasted, delicious sauces and fresh garnish. Imagine this in combination with a cold beer or a perfectly balanced wine well suited for your meal and taste – these are our core competencies in the Explorer Restaurant onboard our Copenhagen–Frederikshavn–Oslo ferry crossing.

7 Seas
With wonderful views of the wide open sea, the 7 Seas buffet restaurant serves a variety of delicious appetisers, hot and cold starters, main dishes, desserts and cheese. You can put your own favourite combinations together and, as its all-you-can-eat, you can visit the buffet table as many times as you wish.

7 Seas offers a little bit of everything, with a wide selection of seafood, traditional meat dishes, salads, cheese and pastries, as well as a very popular childrens buffet.

Little Italy
Do you love crisp Italian pizzas baked on in a hot stone oven? Or perhaps freshly-made pasta dishes? Then you'll love dining in our pizza & pasta restaurant, Little Italy.

The menu is varied and the dishes are all made with the best fresh ingredients. The wines are Italian, of course, and carefully selected by our skilled sommelier.

Coffee Crew
From early morning to late evening, you can look forward to quality coffee and other hot and cold drinks as well as delicious, sweet treats from our very own bakery on board.

While close to land, your mobile phone will connect to your normal network if available. While in open sea, mobile communication is possible by using satellite technology by international roaming. The availability of this service is dependent on your mobile network and tariff plan.

Neither DFDS nor its satellite supplier sets the tariffs for use of this service. The final charge applied to your mobile account will be determined by your own mobile operator. It is important you contact your mobile network supplier to confirm relevant international roaming tariffs prior to use.

Consumption of your own alcohol onboard is prohibited, including alcohol purchased from the onboard Sea Shop. Only alcohol purchased from the onboard bar may be consumed.

Please keep your receipts from the bar as you may be requested to present them.

Excessive intake of alcohol is not permitted. For safety reasons you must behave properly at all times. Abusive or antisocial behaviour will be not tolerated.

If you do not comply with our behaviour policy you shall be subject to an additional surcharge.

Smoking, which includes e-cigarettes, is only permitted in designated areas on outside deck, which are appropriately marked including the relevant signs. An additional EUR 200/DKK 1.500 minimum surcharge shall be applied for smoking in areas other than those specifically designated (which corresponds to the value of the cleaning services to be ordered by DFDS).

Failure to comply with listed rules may result in being blacklisted from DFDS vessels.

Further information can be found in our Terms & Conditions, chapter 13 'Your behaviour'.

At DFDS, it is very important to us that our guests have the best possible experience onboard. The fresh sea, blue skies and beautiful sea air are always a good starting point for a wonderful travel experience. However, we are also aware that not all our passengers are equally seaworthy. Fortunately, something can be done about this.

A single seasickness pill before departure can create peace and ensure that the journey can be enjoyed to the fullest without disruption. In addition, it is recommended not to travel on an empty stomach.

However, in April 2022, the Danish Medicines Agency decided that only pharmacies should be allowed to sell and dispense seasickness pills as over-the-counter medicines. Unfortunately, this means that DFDS, like other Danish passenger shipping companies, is no longer allowed to dispense seasickness pills, either in packages or individually.

While we wait for an exemption permit, we recommend purchasing the necessary seasickness preparations at the pharmacy before departure.

Onboard information for Baltic Sea routes

All our crew are first aid trained. We do not have any medical facilities onboard, so you need to make sure you are fit and well to travel. We also recommend that passengers have travel insurance in case of emergency.

Each member of our crew is trained in all necessary safety measures and procedures and will immediately follow these in the event of danger.

At each departure, safety instructions are communicated to the passengers through the loudspeaker and displayed on the TVs. You’ll find more information on security measures in brochures and evacuation plans in each cabin. If you have any questions, please contact a member of staff.

NOTE ON ISPS: The ISPS (International Code for the Protection of Ships and Port Facilities), which has been operational in all ports and ships since 01.07.2004, requires companies to perform screening and checking of passengers, their luggage and vehicles. All passengers must have valid identification documents and present them when requested at the time of boarding.

On our Baltic Sea routes, you can choose between two restaurant types. Passengers can choose from a wide selection of food at the 7 Seas Buffet or try the à la carte restaurant, Mare Balticum. Passengers can also find a Navigator Bar where they can order drinks and snacks, as well as the Lighthouse Cafe onboard.

More information can be found here:
Restaurants on Klaipeda-Karlshamn
Restaurants on Klaipeda-Kiel
Restaurants on Paldiski-Kapellskar

While close to land, your mobile phone will connect to your normal network if available. While in open sea, mobile communication is possible by using satellite technology by international roaming. The availability of this service is dependent on your mobile network and tariff plan.

Neither DFDS nor its satellite supplier sets the tariffs for use of this service. The final charge applied to your mobile account will be determined by your own mobile operator. It is important you contact your mobile network supplier to confirm relevant international roaming tariffs prior to use.

Consumption of your own alcohol onboard is prohibited, including alcohol purchased from the onboard Sea Shop. Only alcohol purchased from the onboard bar may be consumed.

Please keep your receipts from the bar as you may be requested to present them.

Excessive intake of alcohol is not permitted. For safety reasons you must behave properly at all times. Abusive or antisocial behaviour will be not tolerated.

If you do not comply with our behaviour policy you shall be subject to fine of 350 euros.

Smoking, which includes e-cigarettes, is not permitted in passenger cabins and public areas, including corridors, halls, staircases. Smoking onboard the ship is permitted in designated areas only, which are appropriately marked by the relevant signs. An additional EUR 200 minimum surcharge shall be applied for smoking in areas other than those specifically designated (which corresponds to the value of the cleaning services to be ordered by DFDS).

Failure to comply with listed rules may result in being blacklisted from DFDS vessels.

Further information can be found in our Terms & Conditions, chapter 13 'Your behaviour'.

There are no medical centers onboard DFDS vessels. All staff are trained to provide first aid assistance. If it is necessary, assistance will be called from ashore. Passengers have to be fit to travel. Passengers must have all necessary medication (including seasickness medication) with them at all times, as it will not be provided onboard. We urge our passengers to consult with a doctor or chemist when purchasing any kind of medication.

We also recommend that you have travel insurance in case of emergency.

Onboard information for Rosslare-Dunkirk route

Pet friendly cabins

Make sure your pet is on the leash and with muzzle or in the travel kennel while taking your pet to the cabin from the vehicle.
Bring your pet only to designated areas on the deck as pets are not allowed into public areas/restaurants bars, cafes etc.
Please use designated deck areas for walking your pet and using pet toilet. -Pets are not allowed on the beds.
For cats/ferrets please bring your own litter box.
Please use designated deck areas for walking your pet and using pet toilet.
If your dog uses the toilet, please gather what’s left behind and use a dog waste pickup bag.

Assistance & Guide dogs

Onboard DFDS we accept assistance dogs who are recognised by Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes.

The above programmes ensure assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.

If travelling with an assistance dog it is essential you notify DFDS and confirm the dog complies with the Pet Travel Scheme. You should also note that sea travel can be distressing for animals and the safety and comfort of all our passengers should not be compromised. You will be always responsible for the welfare of the dog. There is no fee to bring your assistance dog onboard, however, you will be asked to provide documentation.

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that assistance & guide dogs currently are. Emotional Support Animals can travel with us however they will have to follow the same rules set out for our regular pets, such as:

Stay in pet friendly cabin
Pet ticket fee payable for adding pets to crossing on all routes

More information can be found here: Assistance Dogs International International Guide Dog Federation information for assistance dog owners - ADUK https://assistancedogsinternational.org/

If you’re travelling with your family, be sure to check out the children’s play area onboard! Let their imaginations run wild as they get stuck in with the various activities and toys on offer.

Both our Optima Seaways and Athena Seaways vessels have a shop onboard where you can browse and treat yourselves. Our Rosslare-Dunkirk ferry is a longer crossing, so we also recommend bringing your own activities such as books and magazines to keep yourself occupied. Additionally, we offer 2 wi-fi packages onboard to help you stay connected if you wish. You can get free wifi or Surf for 10.

Our crew are first aid trained. We do not have any medical facilities onboard, so you need to make sure you are fit and well to travel. We also recommend that passengers have travel insurance in case of emergency.

Our crew are trained in all necessary safety measures and procedures and will immediately follow these in the event of danger.

At each departure, safety instructions are communicated to the passengers through the loudspeaker and displayed on the TVs. You’ll find more information on security measures in brochures and evacuation plans in each cabin. If you have any questions, please contact a member of staff.

NOTE ON ISPS: The ISPS (International Code for the Protection of Ships and Port Facilities), which has been operational in all ports and ships since 01.07.2004, requires companies to perform screening and checking of passengers, their luggage, and vehicles. All passengers must have valid identification documents and present them when requested at the time of boarding.

Lifts are available onboard our Dunkirk - Rosslare route. If you require to be parked near one, you must let us know at the time of booking.

VANS- NOT ON PASSENGER

We do not have any electrical vehicle charging stations onboard our ships or at our terminals, however we’re thrilled to be partnered with Spirii, a market leading e-mobility platform provider, to make travelling with your electric vehicle even easier. At DFDS we love to welcome electric vehicles on our ferries and are committed to supporting more electric vehicle travel going forward. More information on Spirii can be found here.

Inclusive meals

On your crossing from Ireland to France, your meals are included! Head to our self-service restaurant area where you can help yourself to freshly prepared meals. Soft drinks and tea/coffee is also included.

Please inform us of any dietary requirements, and our chefs will be happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets, among others. You will enjoy a total of 3 or four meals onbaord depending on the crossing, and you can be sure that there will be something for the whole family to enjoy.

Check out our sample menu. https://assets.ctfassets.net/mivicpf5zews/5Gp41X2PBrtPvB3SW0YoQ7/5d363f13a59bae5715b0f2ac54abf7b1/Sample_Menu.pdf

While close to land, your mobile phone will connect to your normal network if available. While in open sea, mobile communication is possible by using satellite technology by international roaming. The availability of this service is dependent on your mobile network and tariff plan.

Neither DFDS nor its satellite supplier sets the tariffs for use of this service. The final charge applied to your mobile account will be determined by your own mobile operator. It is important you contact your mobile network supplier to confirm relevant international roaming tariffs prior to use.

From 1 January 2021 EU rules governing data and roaming charges will no longer apply. Some mobile phone providers have said they will continue free data roaming benefits for their customers, so please check with your provider before travelling to the EU.

Note that a new law means that you will now be protected from incurring mobile data charges above £45 without you knowing.

Consumption of your own alcohol onboard is prohibited, including alcohol purchased from the onboard Sea Shop. Only alcohol purchased from the onboard bar & restaurant may be consumed.

Please keep your receipts from the bar as you may be requested to present them.

Excessive intake of alcohol is not permitted. For safety reasons you must behave properly at all times. Abusive or antisocial behaviour will be not tolerated.

If you do not comply with our behaviour policy you shall be subject to an additional surcharge.

Smoking, which includes e-cigarettes, is not permitted in passenger cabins and public areas, including corridors, halls, staircases, and arcades. Smoking onboard the ship is permitted in designated areas only, which are appropriately marked including the relevant signs. An additional EUR200 minimum surcharge shall be applied for smoking in areas other than those specifically designated (which corresponds to the value of the cleaning services to be ordered by DFDS). Failure to comply with listed rules may result in being blacklisted from DFDS vessels.

Further information can be found in our Terms & Conditions, chapter 13 'Your behaviour'.

At DFDS, it is very important to us that our guests have the best possible experience onboard. The fresh sea, blue skies and beautiful sea air are always a good starting point for a wonderful travel experience. However, we are also aware that not all our passengers are equally seaworthy. Fortunately, something can be done about this.

A single seasickness pill before departure can create peace and ensure that the journey can be enjoyed to the fullest without disruption. In addition, it is recommended not to travel on an empty stomach.

However, in April 2022, the Danish Medicines Agency decided that only pharmacies should be allowed to sell and dispense seasickness pills as over-the-counter medicines. Unfortunately, this means that DFDS, like other Danish passenger shipping companies, is no longer allowed to dispense seasickness pills, either in packages or individually.

While we wait for an exemption permit, we recommend purchasing the necessary seasickness preparations at the pharmacy before departure.

DFDS ferry mobile app

The DFDS app is your ideal travel companion.

View live departures and arrival times
Access your booking pass
Keep up to date with the latest travel announcements
Follow your journey with your personalised itinerary
Find information about onboard facilities
Find directions to your DFDS terminals

Simply log into the app using your booking number to access these great features.

What can we help you with?

FAQs

Looking for an answer to a specific question? Take a look at our FAQs as you might find the answer there.

Contact Us

DFDS customer service team will be happy to help you with any queries or concerns. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Pet Travel

You are welcome to travel with your pet onboard our ships whether you book as a foot traveller or with a vehicle.

Timetables

Find relevant information regarding departure and arrival times here.

Ferry Terminals

More information on all our ferry terminals.

Live Travel Updates

Find the very latest travel and sailing updates here.

Preparing For Your Trip

In this section you can find out everything you need to know to prepare for your DFDS ferry crossing.

Travelling with Kids

Enjoy our crossings with the entire family. Our ferries are equipped with all conveniences such as spacious family cabins, restaurant discounts for kids and much more.

Vehicle Types

Information about vehicle types you can travel with on all DFDS ferries.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

If you, or someone you are booking for, is a person with reduced mobility or disabilities, we will offer all our assistance to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

Oresund Bridge Ticket Rules

Before ordering a ticket online, familiarise yourself with the Oresund Bridge ticket purchase rules

Check-in and boarding

Ensure a smooth journey when you sail with us. Find information on check-in times, required documents, security checks, and special considerations for families and passengers with reduced mobility.