You’re off on your travels, your phone is at the ready and you’re set to share the amazing experiences with those who couldn’t join you. When travelling by ferry, your holiday starts the moment you step on board, and for budding photographers and social media lovers, there are a host of incredible photo opportunities that can be captured on the journey.
Sea-nic Journeys
Our latest research looks at the holiday pictures we share, like and tag most online. It reveals that Brits find photos of waterside locations and spectacular scenery the most appealing – naturally both can be seen from deck. Whether it’s the first glimpse of the shore or an iconic waterside landmark, sea-nic views are guaranteed on all ferry journeys. So, we’ve put together our recommendations for the most Instagram-able moments that you can only capture when travelling by ferry.
- White Cliffs of Dover – get that iconic view of Dover’s white limestone cliffs plunging into the sea when crossing the Channel with DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries.
- Dublin’s Poolbeg Lighthouse – the iconic red lighthouse welcomes you to Dublin as you approach aboard Irish Ferries, Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, P&O Ferries or Stena Line.
- Spinnaker Tower and Gunwharf Quays – visible when departing or arriving in Portsmouth with Brittany Ferries, Condor Ferries or Wightlink
- Guernsey’s Castle Cornet and Elizabeth Castle on Jersey – seen when travelling with Condor Ferries from Poole or Portsmouth
- Isle of Man’s Tower of Refuge – capture when approaching Douglas harbour on Isle of Man Steam Packet Company
- Minack Theatre and Land’s End – catch sight of these landmarks from the Scillonian III sailing to/from the Isles of Scilly with Isles of Scilly Travel
- Cowes Harbour – experienced when arriving in the Isle of Wighton Red Funnel
- The colourful waterfront village of Tobermory, Isle of Mull – when sailing with Caledonian MacBrayne to or from Kilchoan
- Docking in Yarmouth, Isle of Wight – arrive directly in this verdant village surrounded by green fields on Wightlink
- Les Ramparts de Saint-Malo and Le Grand Bé – visible as you approach Saint-Malo, France with Brittany Ferries or Condor Ferries
Iconic experiences
Ever travelled by that great British invention the hovercraft? Or seen London’s most iconic sights from the river? On these journeys, the ‘ferry’ itself provides the experience.
Hovertravel operates the only passenger hovercraft service in Britain, making the vessels a star attraction in themselves. Take the best shots while the hovercraft is on land before boarding from Southsea and Ryde or from Ryde pier as it takes off.
With so many landmarks along the river, London is best seen (and shared) from the water. From the Royal Naval College and Greenwich Park in the east, via Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Southbank, Westminster and the London Eye, and through to Battersea Power Station in the West, the London River Bus gives unparalleled views of the capital’s iconic sights. Don’t miss London lit up at night for those colourful photos. Just hop on board Uber Boat by Thames Clippers for the most Instagram-able London travel experience.
Ferry special moments on board
It’s not only the views from the ferry that are made to be shared, but those ferry special moments on board. Our research shows popular holiday photos shared on social media include family activities, delicious food and spa and relaxation. With that in mind, here are some of our favourite on board moments that you’ll need to have the camera ready for. Facilities vary per ship and operator so make sure you find out what experiences await before you go.
- The kids enjoying being on deck, Irish Ferries Credit @brendandowd74
- Dolphin spotting with ORCA Wildlife Officers. Brittany Ferries, CalMac Ferries and DFDS have an ORCA Wildlife Officer on board designated vessels from Spring to Autumn to help you learn about, and spot, marine life
Dolphins, porpoises, whales and seals are also often spotted from the decks of the Scillonian III in the Isles of Scilly and in Manx waters from the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company - The children having fun at the Kids Club, Stena Line
- The first pool shots of the holiday on Pont-Aven, Brittany Ferries
- Indulging in me time at the Spa on Stena Line
- Delicious treats at the Premium lounge on DFDS
- Sun, sea and surf provide the perfect backdrop to deck drinks on P&O Ferries
- Shadow the dog finding his sea-legs in the pet-lounge on Red Funnel
Why not share your ferry special moments by tagging us on Instagram or Facebook @discoverferries
