Title: How to Get Discounts on North Sea and Cross-Channel Ferry Crossings for Motorhomes and Caravans
For motorhome and caravan owners, ferry crossings are an essential part of traveling to Europe. Whether you're heading to France for a scenic road trip or taking a direct ferry to Spain to avoid long drives, securing a good discount on your crossing can help keep costs down. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can find the best deals on North Sea and cross-channel ferry routes.
Ferry Routes to France and Spain
Cross-Channel Ferries to France:
Dover to Calais/Dunkirk – Operated by P&O Ferries, DFDS Seaways, and Irish Ferries.
Newhaven to Dieppe – Operated by DFDS Seaways.
Portsmouth to Caen/St. Malo/Cherbourg – Operated by Brittany Ferries.
Plymouth to Roscoff – Operated by Brittany Ferries.
North Sea Ferries to France and the Netherlands:
Hull to Rotterdam – Operated by P&O Ferries.
Newcastle to Amsterdam (IJmuiden) – Operated by DFDS Seaways.
Ferries to Spain:
Portsmouth/Plymouth to Santander/Bilbao – Operated by Brittany Ferries.
How to Get Discounts on Ferry Crossings
1. Membership Discounts
Many clubs and organizations offer exclusive discounts for motorhome and caravan owners.
Caravan and Motorhome Club (CAMC) – Members can access discounted fares on major ferry routes, including P&O Ferries, DFDS Seaways, Brittany Ferries, and LeShuttle (Eurotunnel).
Camping and Caravanning Club – Offers similar discounts on ferry crossings to France and Spain.
2. Early Booking & Off-Peak Discounts
Book in advance – Many ferry operators offer early bird discounts when booking months ahead.
Travel midweek – Prices are often cheaper when traveling from Tuesday to Thursday rather than weekends.
Avoid peak holiday periods – School holidays and summer months tend to be more expensive.
3. Seasonal and Promotional Offers
Ferry companies often run promotions, especially during off-peak seasons.
Brittany Ferries and DFDS Seaways frequently offer limited-time discounts.
P&O Ferries occasionally runs deals on North Sea and Channel crossings.
Subscribe to newsletters from ferry operators to receive exclusive discount codes.
4. Return & Multi-Trip Discounts
Many ferry companies provide discounts for booking return tickets instead of one-way.
If you plan multiple trips, look for multi-trip passes, which can offer additional savings.
5. Price Comparison Websites
Use ferry comparison websites like Direct Ferries or Aferry to compare fares and find the best deals.
6. Loyalty and Reward Schemes
Ferry operators like Brittany Ferries offer a membership scheme where frequent travelers can access lower fares.
Some companies offer points-based reward systems for regular customers.
7. Group Bookings
If you're traveling with friends or in a convoy, some ferry operators offer discounts for multiple vehicles booked together.
Final Tips for Saving on Ferry Crossings
Check for hidden fees – Some operators charge extra for caravans or large motorhomes.
Consider different routes – Sometimes taking a longer crossing (e.g., Plymouth to Roscoff) can be cheaper when factoring in tolls and fuel savings.
Look for campsite + ferry deals – Some companies bundle ferry bookings with campsite stays for extra discounts.
Conclusion
Finding a good discount on ferry crossings can make a big difference in your travel budget. Whether you’re heading to France via the Channel or taking a longer trip to Spain, there are plenty of ways to save. By joining motorhome and caravan clubs, booking in advance, and keeping an eye out for promotions, you can enjoy a more affordable journey across Europe.
Have you found any great ferry discounts for motorhomes and caravans? Share your tips in the comments below!
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