Festive Fun to find your Christmas Spirit

Ice rink Visit Bruges | © Jan Darthet

With only a few weeks left before that most magical time of the year, there are plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy by ferry that will get you into the festive spirit. From themed mini cruises to theatrical experiences and Christmas markets we’ve chosen the best escapes on board and ferry near. When travelling by ferry you can bring as much luggage (or shopping) as you can carry or will fit in the car. And don’t forget, when coming back from the EU and Channel Islands there is also the chance to stock up on gifts and Duty Free on board, and in the port, with significant savings on high-street prices.

Festive Mini-Cruises

Christmas Themed Mini-Cruise, P&O Ferries, 13-15 December
The Classic Christmas themed mini-cruise from Hull is bound to get you in the Christmas spirit, offering two nights of festive fun, a day trip to Amsterdam or Rotterdam with coach transfers included for a spot of Christmas shopping, plus, two nights’ accommodation in an en suite cabin.

Festive Cruise & Dine to Saint Malo, Brittany Ferries, 6 Nov- 21 December
Departing from Portsmouth, this two-night mini cruise includes return overnight crossings for 2 people and a car, a 3-course meal in one of the onboard restaurants and a day to explore the walled-city of Saint Malo. Complete with its medieval castle and traditional Christmas market, the city is transformed into a festive fairytale. Departures available on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

New Year’s Mini Cruise to Amsterdam, DFDS, 30 December – 1 January 2024
Enjoy two-nights in your own en-suite cabin and all the festivities of New Year’s Eve on board a mini-cruise to Amsterdam. Set sail from Newcastle on 30 December, enjoy a day in Amsterdam before the party starts on board the ship, with a delicious dinner, choice of bars and a complimentary glass of fizz at midnight.

Christmas Markets

Bruges, Belgium

During the festive season this picturesque medieval town, with its canals and cobbled streets transforms into a winter wonderland, with thousands of sparkling lights and decorations. The traditional Christmas Market is in the Grote Markt, the market square which is overlooked by the 83m high Belfry, one of the city’s main sights. Simon Stevinplein market has a different atmosphere and focuses more on arts and crafts. To see some of the city’s more hidden and surprising locations follow the ‘Winter Glow,’ a 2.5km light experience trail featuring 10 unique light installations. On the Minnewater (Lake of Love) you’ll find a floating ice-skating rink and alongside the Vorst (frost) Winter Bar where you can sample Belgian beer or warm up with a mug of hot chocolate or mulled wine. Bruges Christmas Markets and Winter Glow are open from 24 November 2023 to 7 January 2024.

Drive to Bruges from Calais or Dunkirk in 1-1 ½ hours or from Rotterdam or Hook of Holland in 2h 30min. Sail with DFDS, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries or Stena Line.

Amiens, France

With over 2km of market chalets, Amiens Le Marché de Noël offers an array of handmade crafts, gifts and food and drink stalls from 25 November – 30 December 2023. The young and the young-at-heart can ride on the merry-go-round and skate on the ice rink then indulge in French treats: tartiflette, crepes and mulled wine or even locally made mulled beer. At 7pm every evening, you can enjoy the amazing light show at the Notre-Dame Cathedral. And the best thing? You can stock up on French goodies to indulge in during your own Christmas celebrations.

Amiens is a 1h 45min drive from Calais, 1h 30min drive from Dieppe and a 2h 15min hour drive from Le Havre. Sail with Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries

Cologne, Germany

Originating in Germany the Christkindlmarkt (Christ Child’s Market) or Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas Market) is now a mainstay of European Christmas events. However, no one does a Christmas market quite like the Germans. Within a 4-hour drive from Dunkirk or just over 3 hours from Rotterdam and Hook of Holland you can see an original Weihnachtsmarkt in one of Germany’s biggest and most vibrant cities – Cologne.

Cologne hosts several Christmas markets around the city, each with their own special atmosphere, from 23 November to 23 December. The most striking has its famous Gothic cathedral as the backdrop and boasts the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. Heinzel’s Winter Fairyland is the kids’ favourite in the Old Town, complete with house elves, a workshop to forge a horseshoe bearing your name, an ice rink, and a Christmas Post Office directing wishes straight to the Christmas Angel or Father Christmas.

Make sure you try the Reibekuchen, fried potato pancakes, and the handmade Lebkuchen.

Sail with DFDS, P&O Ferries or Stena Line.

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford is home to Ireland’s largest Christmas festival Winterval, with a programme of over 40 free and ticketed events on offer between 17 November – 23 December 2023. Enjoy the festive light show in Arundel Square, ice skating at Winterval on Ice, and a visit to Santa with the little ones in his Gingerbread House. Browse the Christmas market and craft fair and check the calendar for concerts, cinema to live orchestral music and storytelling.

Waterford is a 1h15 minute drive from Rosslare harbour. Sail with Irish Ferries or Stena Line.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Open from 18 November to 22 December, the Christmas Market is set in front of Belfast’s spectacular City Hall. As well as traditional Gluhwein, visitors can indulge in an authentic feast of Christmas cuisine from across the world. Children can visit Santa in his magical grotto, ride the vintage carousel and get a bird’s eye view of the market from the top of the helter skelter. 

Sail to Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries from Cairnryan to Larne (a 40 mins drive from Belfast) or travel to Belfast with Stena Line. Take the car so you can bring lots of handmade gifts back!

London, UK

London pulls out all the stops to provide a magical Christmas atmosphere: from the sparkling Christmas lights and dramatic shop windows that turn Oxford Street, Regents Street and Covent Garden into a Christmas extravaganza, to the atmospheric open-air ice-rinks that pop up over the city at locations such as Somerset House, Battersea Power Station, Canary Wharf and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, to name a few.

Southbank Centre Winter Festival, running until 7 January, features a Thames-side Winter Market as well as an exciting family arts programme. Experience the festive classic Nutcracker reimagined, or follow Marinka, a young girl trying to find her feet in The House with Chicken Legs, blending puppets, projection, and live music.

For a different take on Christmas illuminations book an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Illuminated River tour and see the ambitious public art commission which is transforming the capital at night, lighting up 9 bridges along the Thames.

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers River Bus operates services along the river so you can soak up the atmosphere and see the sights as your travel around.

Festive Family Fun

Jersey, Channel Islands

Along with the Christmas lights and ice-skating rink, Jersey has some unique activities to get you in the Christmas spirit. At the Enchanted Christmas Tree Maze Experience the young and young-at-heart will embark on an elf-hunt quest, solve riddles, and follow clues to find Santa’s mischievous helpers. (Howard Davies Park, St Helier, 8-21 December)

See the classic Dickens tale of A Christmas Carol unlike you’ve seen it before. Step into Ebenezer Scrooge’s secret parlour for an unforgettable immersive dining experience. Matinees are available for families with children aged 8+ on selected dates. (Freedom Centre, St Helier, 6-24 December)

If you’re in Jersey over Christmas don’t miss the Christmas Day Dip at Havre des Pas run by the Jersey Swimming Club.

Condor Ferries operates services from Portsmouth to Jersey.

Isle of Man

A great family event and a sight to be seen at the home of the TT is the annual Santa’s on a Bike ride, in aid of Rebecca House Children’s Hospice. A stream of red Santas head off in a cavalcade from Douglas to Peel and back, with supporters lining the streets. (9 December 2023)

Perfect for the little ones, THE POLAR EXPRESS^TM train ride is a fun filled theatrical adventure on its way to the North Pole from Douglas train station. Pop on your PJs and hop aboard, where you’ll get to meet the characters from the film including the conductor, the singing chefs, the hobo and of course Father Christmas. (Isle of Man Steam Railway: 9^th 10^th, 15^th, 16^th, 17^th, 21^st, 22^nd, 23^rd December).

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company sail from Heysham to Douglas, Isle of Man in 3h 45min.

Isle of Wight, UK

There’s fun for all the family on the Isle of Wight this festive season, from festive stories with Santa at Osborne, to Christmas markets and events at the Donkey Sanctuary and The Quay (23-24 November). Santa Specials at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway (weekends from 2 December) welcome visitors with festive music, a seasonal Christmas market, and lots of entertainment and magic shows just for children, before going to see the big man himself. Then the family can relax in a steam-heated compartment a 10-mile round trip through the Island’s winter landscape.

The Isle of Wight is accessible via Lymington and Portsmouth with Wightlink, Southsea with Hovertravel and Southampton with Red Funnel with a journey time of between 10 -55 minutes.

Hogmanay

Isle of Islay, Scotland, UK

Unforgettable festive experiences don’t get more authentic than Hogmanay in the Scottish Hebrides. Forget the crowds in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stonehaven and celebrate the new year with the islanders on the Isle of Islay. Book yourself a cosy room in Port Charlotte, try a dram of one (or two) of the famous peaty single malts while cosying next to the wood-burner in the pub and head out to watch the fireworks at midnight. To clear your head the next day you can take part in the New Year’s Day Dook (a dip in the refreshing coastal waters) from the beach, before lacing up your hiking boots and heading out for a bracing walk.

Port Charlotte is a 25 min drive from the ferry terminal at Port Askaig, total journey time from Tarbert including the ferry with Caledonian MacBrayne is 3 hours.

Your Journey Your Way

Travelling by ferry is the more relaxing way to travel, with stunning views of the water, the oppotunity to spot wildlife, generous luggage allowances and the ability to get up and walk around. We have partnered with three influencers to highlight all the great facilities that are available on a ferry, whether you are a family or group travelling together, have reduced mobility or are just wanting to feel like you’re getting away by leaving the mainland.

Save or Splash Out – great value ferry holidays

Save

Get the best value ferry trips

• Book early

Saver tickets sell out early, so take advantage of low rates on your preferred travel dates by booking as ferry companies release their new season timetables. Go for flexible ticketing options for the freedom to change travel plans later at no extra charge

• Travel off peak

Choose less popular sailing times such as midweek and, on routes with overnight crossings, opt for daytime departures to make even greater savings on your ticket price

• Squeeze into the shoulder season

For a summer getaway that doesn’t break the bank, holiday mid-June to early July or in early September. Holidaymakers benefit from the warmer weather, lower cost accommodation and quieter tourist attractions

• Save across every part of your holiday

A car crossing ticket includes carriage for at least two passengers, often up to four, or in some cases nine passengers and includes as much luggage as you can fit in, without incurring excess baggage fees. You can even take bicycles and paddleboards. It also saves on vehicle rental and means you have everything you need for your perfect holiday with you.

• Consider combination tickets

Many ferry firms partner with local attractions, hotels, caravan and camping clubs and transport services such as rail and sail offers to pass on bigger savings to customers.

Best value holidays

Pitch up and save on your stay

Staying at campsites can provide inexpensive accommodation for all the family, with a fortnight’s family stay on the Isle of Wight during the summer holidays costing as little as £250 (price from The Camping and Caravanning Club). Simply hop across the Solent with Hovertravel, Red Funnel or Wightlink. Ferry travel makes it easy for caravans and motorhome owners to reach their favourite destinations and, for campers, tents and equipment can be transported within the price of your ticket, whether going as a car or foot passenger.

Sites often provide free or low-cost entertainment and sports facilities to keep everyone busy and being in the great outdoors gives direct access to nature’s beauty. In Dark Skies areas such as the Isle of Man, reached via the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and the Channel Islands, via Condor Ferries, stargazers can observe the best sights in the Milky Way by just stepping outside their van or tent.

Visit free attractions

So many museums, public artworks and heritage sites can be visited for free, enabling visitors to soak up local culture without having to open their wallets. Exploring the coastline, countryside and hills either by foot or your own car is also a great way to save money. It’s worth picking up destination information booklets on board or using the crossing to research interesting attractions online. Ferry favourites include Isle of Man’s Manx National Heritage sites, which are accessible with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Art lovers can travel between the Tate Modern and Tate Britain on Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ river bus services.

Home-stays off the beaten track

Self-catering and holiday homes offer fantastic savings when compared to hotels and can provide richer experiences. Passengers sailing to France with Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries can benefit from the government-sponsored scheme Bienvenue à la Ferme, which offers great value accommodation on farms and often includes homemade meals made with home-grown ingredients. French gites, bed and breakfasts, also offer great value accommodation.

Cut accommodation costs completely

By eliminating the need to overnight, day-trippers can experience travel without hefty hotel bills. Ferry routes open access to a range of destinations that can be visited in one day and allows you to enjoy the crossing as part of the experience.  Day trips to the pristine Isles of Scilly on the Scillonian; to Guernsey with Condor Ferries; to Scotland’s western islands and peninsulas with Caledonian MacBrayne; to Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries and Stena Line; and to the Isle of Wight with Hovertravel, Red Funnel and Wightlink, make it easy to take in the beauty on our doorstep across the British Islands while relaxing, taking in spectacular views and spotting marine life.

To take in the best views of London’s iconic sights, travel around the city with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. From £18.40 the River Roamer ticket allows visitors to hop on and off the frequent river services all day to stop at many top attractions. River views, fresh air and space guaranteed!

Jaunts across the Channel for the day are back on the menu with travellers able to indulge in duty-free shopping and save up to half-price on souvenirs and goods including alcohol, perfume and chocolates. Once in Calais, discover the Calais Dragon, one of the Saurian machines that is transforming the Calais seafront. Day return car crossings are available from Dover with DFDS and P&O Ferries. For an extended break, DFDS and P&O Ferries run two-night mini cruises to Amsterdam, so travellers can overnight on board and spend the day exploring the city’s canals, cafes and museums.

Splash out

Travel in style

With ferry travel, the holiday starts as soon as you step on board so there is plenty of opportunity to upgrade your journey and enjoy a premium experience*.

• Priority boarding for those who want to be the first to board
• Upgrade to the club-class experience – sail in the premium lounge – with complimentary food and beverages, free WiFi and comfy seating in stylish surroundings
• On longer sailings, ensuite cabins and suites are available for total relaxation and privacy
• A la carte dining – start the holiday experience as soon as you board with a delicious 3-course meal
• Relax with a spa treatment onboard Stena Line and Brittany Ferries Pont-Aven

*Onboard facilities differ per operator and ship so check the operator’s website for which services are available for your journey.

Gloat-worthy gastronomy

Ferry travel helps foodies to really push the boat out when it comes to indulging in some of the finest food on the planet, and there’s always space to bring your favourite products back home. On board Brittany Ferries, passengers can enjoy onboard fine dining restaurant before disembarking in Bilbao, just a stone’s throw from San Sebastian, a city that holds 19 Michelin stars and is renowned for its pintxos bars. A three-night stay at the Hotel Silken Amara Plaza, San Sabastian costs from £365 per person and includes ferry travel.

Every year Cowes welcomes glamourous guests to the world-famous sailing and yachting competition, so it’s no surprise that in nearby Newport, Thompson’s serves an exclusive tasting menu from £99 per person using the best produce from the Isle of Wight.

What could be more decadent than an epicurean break to France’s Champagne region, to the UNESCO cellars of Pommery, Ruinart, Veuve-Cliquot and Charles Heidsieck. Private tours of the Champagne wineries offer an insight into how the famous beverage is made and the all-important tastings. Sail with DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries from Dover to Calais and drive to Reims in less than 3 hours.

Splendid spas

For the ultimate pampering experience, splash out on a luxury spa break. One of the best spa resorts in Northern Ireland, Galgorm boasts a thermal spa village, sail to Belfast with P&O Ferries or Stena Line. If you can’t wait to start relaxing, Stena Line passengers can book into the onboard Pure Nordic Spa.

The Netherlands boasts a culture of wellness resorts, with high end spas offering Scandinavian-style sauna and massage experiences, such as the exclusive Hotel Thermen Bussloo, which is only 90 minutes from DFDS’ ferry port near Amsterdam and less than two hours from P&O Ferries and Stena Line docks in Rotterdam and Hook of Holland.

Stylish stays by the sea

With exclusive bars, a reputation for great music and some opulent city centre hotels, Dublin is a great destination for hedonists and epicures looking to enjoy all Ireland’s capital has to offer. A private powerboat tour gives an exclusive view of Dubin Bay and neighbouring Dalkey Island and adds an extra touch of class. Sail with Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries or Stena Line.

The islands on Scotland’s West coast offer a choice of well-appointed hotels, guest houses and glamping sites. The Beach Bothies at Uig on the Isle of Lewis offer a private cosy hideaway right by the sea. Accessible via Caledonian MacBrayne, a two-night break in mid-April for two costs £300.

A popular holiday spot for Coco Chanel, Deauville’s vintage glamour is still evident in its belle epoque architecture. Take a stroll along Les Planches, the 1920s boardwalk before visiting the grand casino or taking in a cabaret show. Travel to Caen or Cherbourg with Brittany Ferries, to Dieppe with DFDS or to Calais with DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries. 

Water sports are a great way to indulge on a coastal break and the Isles of Scilly offer crystal clear waters and white sand beaches reminiscent of a tropical paradise. Sign up for paragliding, water-skiing or private boat tours before staying at the Hell Bay Hotel on the western shores of Bryher. Sail to St Marys from Penzance with Isles of Scilly Travel.

Five animals you never thought you’d be able to see from a ferry!

The team from ORCA, one of the UK’s leading whale and dolphin conservation charities, give some inspirational insights into the marine life that can be seen in waters around the UK and Europe, from the ferry.

ORCA ocean watcher © ORCA

One of the absolute joys of being out at sea is having the chance to spot some of the incredible wildlife we have around the UK and Europe. ORCA have been using ferries to monitor whales, dolphins and porpoises (known collectively as cetaceans) for more than 20 years, and in that time we’ve had some sensational sightings that really stick in the memory.

We’ve compiled a list of five surprising species that you can see simply by stepping on to a ferry and enjoying the experience of travelling by sea.

Killer whales

Orcas, or killer whales, are a species very close to our heart. Not only are they our namesakes, but they are also one of the most intelligent and sophisticated animals on the planet. You might think you’d need to travel somewhere exotic to find these icons of the ocean, but in fact you can glimpse this unmistakeable species around the UK.

As well as regular sightings on the ferry between mainland Scotland and Shetland, we even have our very own resident pod. These animals are most commonly found in the Hebrides and can occasionally be seen from the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry network.

This group in particular is a crucial population that, unfortunately, is in real trouble. Toxic pollutants called polychlorinated biphenyls (or PCBs) have built up to record levels in these animals, and mean that they haven’t bred for over 30 years.

Fin whales

Known as the greyhound of the sea, the fin whale is the second largest animal on the planet, with only the giant blue whale larger. These baleen whales are filter feeders, using huge strips of keratin in their mouths like a sieve to consume vast quantities of krill and other small marine animals.

Fin whales can be seen in large numbers in the Bay of Biscay from aboard Brittany Ferries voyages to northern Spain. Their size (up to 27m) means they can be seen from far away even with the naked eye, meaning it is the perfect place to study them.

ORCA are using ferries in this area to learn more about their behaviour, with the aim of trying to better understand the threat of ship strike. Busy shipping lanes in other parts of the Bay of Biscay are putting fin whales at risk, so we are working with Brittany Ferries to better understand how we can reduce this risk by studying the animals we see.

Striped dolphins

Acrobatic and energetic, dolphins are always a crowd favourite and the beautiful striped dolphin is one we love to spot. Typically they enjoy deeper waters of 1,000m or more, where the fish and squid they hunt can be found.

Striped dolphins are also very social, both within their own species and with other dolphins as well. Hybrids are sometimes seen, with interbreeding with short-beaked common dolphins something recorded numerous times in the north Atlantic.

Striped dolphins have also popped up in slightly unusual places too – in 2017, an ORCA team recorded striped dolphins on the ferry crossing to the Isles of Scilly, the first ever recorded sighting of this species in the area.      

Harbour porpoises

Small, shy and very difficult to spot, the harbour porpoise is the most common cetacean in Europe but is one of the most elusive. They are only 1.5-1.7m long, and they are usually found close to shore, where they feed on species such as sand eels.      

The harbour porpoise is the only species of porpoise found in Europe, and their small size and shy nature make them difficult to spot in all but the best conditions. The distinctive triangular dorsal fin is usually found heading away from the ship as these shy animals seek out peace and quiet!

Harbour porpoises in the North Sea are a particular focus for ORCA – they are frequently caught and killed by fishing nets in the area, which is why ORCA’s research has been used to help designate a “Special Area of Conservation” in the area to help keep them safe.

Humpback whales

The sight of a breaching humpback whale is one that most people will have enjoyed in nature documentaries by the likes of David Attenborough, but it’s also one that very lucky ferry passengers can enjoy on occasion as well.

With the recovery of humpback whales after the ban on whaling, plus the incredible distances this particular species can migrate, we see them increasingly popping up in unexpected places. Visits to the cornish coast can be added to sightings in the Hebrides, and even the occasional encounter in the English Channel.

Of course, this increase in sightings presents its own issues – by moving closer to shore, the animals are at increased risk of being entangled in kreel lines holding lobster and crab pots. ORCA monitors humpback whales across Europe and beyond, and our friends at British Divers Marine Life Rescue are also on hand to assist any animals in distress.

Ferry travel is a wonderful way to appreciate awe-inspiring species in their natural habitat. We’re continuing to celebrate wildlife at sea on ferries across the UK network, so keep an eye out for teams at sea if you travel this year!

Top 10 Foodie Destinations by Ferry

Archirondel dining © Visit Jersey

If a favourite part of your holiday is indulging in local cuisine, you are not alone. A survey* commissioned by Discover Ferries has revealed that almost two thirds (60%) of British holiday makers enjoy dining out on regional delicacies when they go away, with over a third (39%), citing that as their favourite holiday food. The survey also showed that our favourite holiday drinks are beer, wine and cocktails.

So, whether you like sampling seafood, waking up to waffles, or enjoying a wee dram of whisky, we have compiled our top ten foodie destinations you can reach by ferry.

Amsterdam

Following on from Amsterdam City Hall’s decision in May 2019 to only serve vegetarian food as standard at city council events, it’s fitting that Amsterdam is our foodie destination for vegetarians. With more people choosing an organic and meat-free diet for their perceived health and environmental benefits, Amsterdam is a worthy destination for those committed to sustainability.

In Amsterdam-Noord, Café de Ceuvel offers a completely vegan menu with CO2-free coffee and locally brewed beer.

For the more adventurous we recommend trying Betty’s, in Rijnstraat in south Amsterdam. The 3-course ‘surprise menu’ is just that – a surprise. You let them know if there’s anything you don’t eat and wait to see what Gido has prepared you.

Taste the season in Morris & Bella, in Spaarndammerbuurt, Amsterdam West, where locally produced vegetables take centre-stage. A slow fine dining concept, Morris & Bella offers 4-6 course menus which change every month.

Of course, all foodie destinations in Amsterdam are best reached by bicycle.

Getting to Amsterdam

DFDS – Sailing to Amsterdam from Newcastle

P&O Ferries – Sailing to Rotterdam from Hull

Stena Line – Sailing to Hook of Holland from Harwich

Belgium

Sometimes overlooked as a culinary destination due to its bigger neighbours, Belgium’s proud food culture may come as a surprise to some visitors. Belgian beer, moules-frites, chocolate and waffles are well-known Belgian specialities, but they are far from the only  delicacies to tempt the gourmands among us.  The North Sea Coast, for example, offers diners treasures such as  mussels and grey prawn croquettes.  Ghent delights include Waterzooi, a creamy fish stew, and the sweet and sour flavours of Flanders beef stew, which comprises beef slow cooked in beer. Originally from Wallonia, we recommend trying Ardennes ham, meatballs with a rich stock and Liege syrup (a sweet, sticky brown jelly made from evaporated fruit juices—dates, apples, and pears) and Tarte au Riz, a sweet flan filled with a custardy mixture of rice and milk and glazed with egg.

As Britain’s favourite holiday drink, we thought we should mention that Belgium is home to over 800 varieties of beer. We holy recommend trying the Westvleteren 12, considered by some to be among the best beers in the world. Westvleteren beers are sold in small quantities on a weekly basis from the doors of the Trappist Abbey of Saint Sixtus.

Getting to Belgium

DFDS – Sailing to Calais and Dunkirk (France)

Irish Ferries – Sailing to Calais (France)

P&O Ferries – Sailing to Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Calais (France)

Stena Line – Sailing to Hook of Holland (Netherlands)

Brittany

Brittany’s most famous export is the crêpe, and we suggest trying the original version. Traditionally made from buckwheat flour, they come in both sweet and savoury versions (galettes).

When it comes to fresh vegetables, Brittany is a key producer of artichokes and onions on the land and seaweed in the sea. People have been collecting seaweed along the Finistère coast for centuries and many local dishes have a seaweed twist.

Two of the most important ingredients in French cooking, butter and salt, are made or harvested in Brittany. The salt marshes of Guérande, which cover over 2,000 hectares of land, is famous for its course sea salt (gros sel) and sea salt flakes (fleur de sel), which are both harvested from June-September. 

This part of northern France is also well known for its buttery delights, including a plethora of cakes, pastries and biscuits special to the region. Famous Breton pastries include the kouign amann (“butter cake” in Breton) and the far.

Getting to Brittany

Brittany Ferries – Sailing to Caen, Cherbourg, Le Havre, Roscoff and St. Malo

Condor Ferries – Sailing to St. Malo.

DFDS – Sailing to Calais and Dieppe

Irish Ferries – Sailing to Calais

P&O Ferries – Sailing to Calais

Guernsey, Channel Islands

Guernsey’s gastronomy is a unique fusion of flavours, combining the French love of seafood and the British love of creamy milk. Local delicacies to look out for are Ormers, a mollusc resembling a flattened sea snail, that has an almost meat-like taste and texture and can be found in the restaurants around St Peters Port from January to April.

The island’s signature cake, Guernsey Gâche, is a fruity bread made with sultanas, raisins, and orange peel, and best eaten with Guernsey’s creamy butter.

When it comes to dairy, Guernsey cows are regarded as producing the most delicious milk in the world. Not only is it super-creamy, but Guernsey milk is also said to have great health properties, containing 12% more protein and three times as much as omega 3 than regular milk.

Getting to Guernsey

Condor Ferries– sailing to Guernsey from Poole, Portsmouth and Jersey

Ireland

When people imagine Irish food they often think of a dish with potatoes, and it’s true that the potato has a special place in Irish cooking. From Irish potato bread (or farl), which is a staple of a Northern Irish breakfast, and Colcannon, made with mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage and butter or cream, to the simple potato galette, which involves pan-fried potatoes in butter.

The potato in its many forms also provides the perfect accompaniment to Ireland’s other delicacies, such as grass-fed beef, Lee-river salmon, drisheen (a type of blood sausage) and battleboard, a salted ling fish often eaten on Fridays.

A trip to Ireland would not be complete without experiencing the local Guinness, said to taste different in its birth country than its exported namesake, and a dram of single pot still Irish whiskey, a uniquely Irish form of spirit, made in large copper stills, using a mix of malted and un-malted barley and triple-distilled.

Getting to Ireland

Irish Ferries – Sailing to Dublin and Rosslare

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company – Sailing to Dublin and Belfast (April-Sept)

P&O Ferries – Sailing to Larne (Belfast)

Stena Line – Sailing to Belfast, Dublin and Rosslare

Isle of Man

As you would expect from an island, seafood is a key ingredient of Isle of Man gastronomy. Whether it be the national dish, Queenies (known elsewhere as queen scallops), sourced locally in Manx waters, or kippers (herring smoked over oak-chips in a centuries-old tradition).  More unexpected is Loaghtan lamb, from the rare-breed Manx Loaghtan sheep who have four, or sometimes six, horns. Their meat is considered a delicacy, being more gamey and lower in fat than regular lamb and found in shops and restaurants around the island.

The speciality that Manx people are most proud of, however, is their award-winning cheese from the Isle of Man Creamery. The cheese travels no further than 15 miles from farm to store, and products come in all varieties.

Getting to the Isle of Man

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company – Sailing from Heysham (year round) and Liverpool, Dublin and Belfast (seasonally)

Isle of Wight

For many a visit to the Isle of Wight is like going back in time and conjures up memories of sticks of rock and tea rooms, however the island’s food scene has changed dramatically over the last fifteen years since chef Robert Thomson won the island a Michelin star at The Hambrough. As all chefs will tell you, the secret to great tasting food is fresh, quality ingredients. Local island specialities include: tomatoes from The Tomato Stall, grown in perfect conditions; The Isle of Wight Cheese Company, whose multiple award-winning Isle of Wight Blue is mild, incredibly creamy, with a beautiful blue rind^; garlic from The Garlic Farm, which grows multiple varieties of garlic, sells garlic-inspired products and holds culinary workshops throughout the year.

English wines, particularly white and sparkling varieties have been winning international awards in recent years, even beating established French rivals. The Isle of Wight has two vineyards Adgestone, one of the oldest vineyards in England whose award-winning Dry Wight should not be missed and Rosemary Vineyard, whose founder is also behind the popular Mermaid gin from the Isle of Wight Distillery.

Getting to the Isle of Wight

Hovertravel – sailing from Portsmouth to Ryde (foot passengers only)

Red Funnel – sailing from Southampton to East Cowes and West Cowes

Wightlink – sailing from Portsmouth to Ryde and Fishbourne and Lymington to Yarmouth

London

London’s food scene is well established and enjoys a reputation for being among the best in the world – both in terms of fine dining, but also in terms of the variety of international cuisines available. The capital’s rich and diverse cultural heritage is reflected in range of authentic culinary delights on offer, from Vietnamese in Shoreditch to Turkish in Harringay, Portuguese in Vauxhall, Chinese in Chinatown and curry in Whitechapel.

For those wanting to experience something more locally sourced, Borough Market and local farmers markets offer artisan products from small producers around the UK and beyond.

London has re-established its place as a top brewing location with local craft breweries popping up all over the city. One of the most well-known of which is the Meantime brewery in Greenwich, which offers tours, tastings and brewing masterclasses.

Getting around London by ferry

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers – run the River Bus service on the Thames from Riverside Barking in the east to Putney in the West.

Normandy

Normandy has a rich culinary heritage. One of the most loved specialities of this part of northern France is neither beer nor wine, but in fact the humble apple. This highly versatile fruit forms the basis of delicious desserts such as  apple tarte tatin, or, for those wanting a more adult twist, it is also the key ingredient in the formidable local cidre or calvados, which can be enjoyed either as a refreshing drink or a delicious ingredient in a regional variation of that other French classic, moules-frites.

For lovers of seafood, Normandy is the chief oyster-cultivating, scallop-exporting and mussel-raising* region in France, with clams, cockles and lobster also in plentiful supply. Many local restaurants create their own special version of a classic seafood platter, which are perfect as a sharing dish when dining with friends or loved ones

Also not to be missed are the Normandy soft cheeses: Camembert, Pont-l’évêque, Livarot and Neufchâtel, all of which have AOC (appellation d’origine controlée) certification and are available in the local shops, restaurants and farmers markets.

Getting to Normandy

Brittany Ferries – Sailing to Caen, Cherbourg, Le Havre and St. Malo

Condor Ferries – Sailing to St. Malo

DFDS – Sailing to Calais and Dieppe

Irish Ferries – Sailing to Calais

P&O Ferries – Sailing to Calais

Scotland

Brits may joke about the deep-fried Mars bar, but Scotland has long established itself on the culinary map with household brands such as Scottish smoked salmon, Aberdeen Angus beef and Scottish malt whisky.  Oban is the seafood capital of Scotland, offering the finest fresh lobster, crab, scallops, monkfish and oysters. Game, such as vension and grouse, is a speciality when in season, and no trip to Scotland would be complete without trying haggis with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

Undoubtedly Scotland is most famous for its whisky and whether you’re visiting the islands (Arran, Campbelltown, Islay, Jura, Mull, Skye) or the mainland, you have plenty of opportunity to get into the national spirit.

Getting to and around Scotland

Caledonian MacBrayne – serves the islands off the West Coast of Scotland

P&O Ferries – Sailing to Cairnryan

Stena Line – Sailing to Cairnryan

Whatever your food and drink favourites, the great thing about taking your car and a ferry is that you can bring back some of your favourite holiday finds to enjoy when you get home.

Top festivals and events to reach by ferry

Whether you are a sports fan, music-lover or a petrol-head, there is festival or event to suit your tastes (and budget). Why not pack up your car or bike and travel by ferry to our top 10 favourites for the year:

St Patricks Day, Dublin (17 March)
St Patrick’s Day: Ireland’s most famous event of the year, sees over 100,000 visitors join locals in the streets of Dublin for the country’s biggest parade. The parade features colourful floats, dancers, marching bands and music from all over the world. Once the parade has finished everyone hits the bars and pubs of Dublin to continue the festivities and make new friends while partaking in the national pastime – drinking Guinness.
Irish Ferries and Stena Line sail from Holyhead to Dublin and P&O Ferries sail from Liverpool to Dublin.

King’s Day, The Netherlands (27 April)
King’s Day (Koningsdag) is a Dutch national holiday which honours the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, who was born on 27 April. The Dutch celebrate by partying in the streets from the night before and covering everything possible with orange: flags, wigs, revellers clothes – to honour the Dutch Royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. In Rotterdam expect outdoor parties around the city featuring house, disco and hiphop, street flea markets and a great festival atmosphere.
https://www.rotterdamfestivals.nl/en/featured/kings-day/
P&O Ferries sail to Rotterdam from Hull and Stena Line sail to the Hook of Holland from Harwich.

World Pilot Gig Championships, Isle of Scilly (April / May)
What’s a Pilot Gig Championship, you may ask yourself? A pilot gig is a six-oared rowing boat. Originally from Cornwall, a pilot gig was used to get a ship’s pilot out to an incoming vessel and gigs would race to get their pilot out first. Now, the World Pilot Gig Championships take place every year over the first May bank holiday weekend and feature more than 150 men’s and women’s teams racing over 3 days. It’s the Isles of Scilly’s busiest weekend of the year so book up well in advance to see this oar-some event! http://www.worldgigs.co.uk/
Isles of Scilly Travel operates the Scillonian III from Penzance to St Mary’s from March – November.

The Isle of Man TT, Isle of Man, (First two weeks of June)
The Isle of Man TT is a must-see event for all motorsports fans. Every year the world’s greatest motorcycle racers get together to race the 37.73 mile ‘Mountain Course’ around the island’s public roads. The event consists of one week of practice sessions and one week of racing. For those of you who want to try the course yourselves, it’s become a tradition on ‘Mad Sunday’ for spectators to tour the Mountain Course.
https://www.iomtt.com/tt-info
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company operate services from Heysham, Liverpool, Belfast and Dublin to Douglas on the Isle of Man.

Bastille Day, France, 13-14 July
Celebrate with all of France on their national holiday, 14 juillet, which remembers the storming of the Bastille in 1789 – the event generally thought of, as the start of the French Revolution. Head to Mont Saint Michel in Normandy, a medieval city on an island, connected to the mainland by just one bridge. Not only is the island a great place to explore, but because its geography you’ll get an unparalleled view of the fireworks reflected in the sea.
Mont Saint Michel is a 55mins drive from the port of St Malo. Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries operate services from the UK and Jersey to St Malo. Or drive down from Calais in 4h 40 mins from where DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries operate frequent daily services.

HebCelt Fest, Stornoway Isle of Lewis (mid-July)
Having featured big name artists such as KT Tunstall, Texas, the Levellers, the Fratellis and Van Morrison, HebCelt Festival is firmly on the music festival calendar. Held in the beautiful grounds of Lewis Castle, overlooking Stornoway harbour, this event brings together a variety of music from around the world and quality live Celtic music at one of our favourite family-friendly festivals in the UK.
https://www.hebceltfest.com/
Caledonian MacBrayne sail from Ullapool to Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.

Pride Amsterdam: (end July – first week of August)
The highlight of this 9-day LGTBQ+ celebration is the world-famous Canal Parade, featuring 80 boats sailing along the canals with music and entertainment, with lots of people lining the canals to join the party. Other events include Pride walks, open-air cinema and LGTB history tours.
https://www.amsterdamgaypride.nl/
DFDS sail from Newcastle to Amsterdam, Stena Line sail to the Hook of Holland from Harwich and P&O Ferries sail to Rotterdam from Hull.

Cowes Week, Isle of Wight (end July – first week August)
Cowes Week is the oldest and largest sailing regatta in the world and a highlight on the British sporting calendar. Spectators can enjoy much of the racing from the shore, with The Green and The Parade great spots to view the action from. The week culminates on the middle Friday of August in a spectacular air show and fireworks display set off from the water just outside Cowes.
http://www.cowesweek.co.uk/
Red Funnel sails from Southampton directly to Cowes. Hovertravel operates hovercraft services from Southsea to Ryde and Wightlink sails from Portsmouth to Ryde or Fishbourne and Lymington to Yarmouth.

Christmas Festivities, London (December)
Get into the festive spirit in London. Sing along to carols under Trafalgar Square’s traditional Christmas tree, an annual gift from Norway before taking in a show in the West End. See the South Bank, Covent Garden and Leicester Square transformed into a Christmas wonderland, grab a hot chocolate and take the kids ice skating at the seasonal rinks that pop up at Canary Wharf, Greenwich, Somerset House and newly-reopened Battersea Power Station. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers run frequent services along the Thames and special Illuminated River tours, for the best views of the city. 

Hogmanay, Edinburgh (31 December)
With its origins going back to the Viking celebration of the Winter Solstice, Scotland’s New Year’s Eve party is legendary. The city of Edinburgh turns into an outdoor party, with concerts, silent disco, a ceilidh under the castle and a spectacular firework display over Edinburgh Castle at midnight. Wrap up warm as the party lasts into the small hours.
P&O Ferries sail from Larne to Cairnryan and Stena Line sail from Belfast to Cairnryan. Edinburgh is a 2hr50mins car journey from Cairnryan.

Get Ferry Fit – A Guide to Active Holidays

© Visit Guernsey

Whether you are looking forward to getting out and spending time doing the activities you love or want to try something new, we’ve got some great ideas for where you can have an active and rejuvenating holiday. Dust off your hiking boots, service your bike, unpack the paddleboard and grab the dog’s leash. By taking the ferry you can bring everyone, including your pet, and your sports equipment with you, so there’s no need to spend time searching for a pet hotel or equipment hire, you can just pack and go*.

Best for paddleboarding

If you have conquered your local lake or reservoir by paddleboard and are looking for something more adventurous, explore uninhabited islands off Tresco and Bryher in the pristine archipelago of the Isles of Scilly. Sail on the Scillonian III with Isles of Scilly Travel. On the Isle of Man, the picturesque bay of Port Erin offers sheltered waters bordered by cliffs and is a great place to paddle while the sun is setting over the Irish Sea. Sail with Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. In Normandy the white cliffs and natural arches of Etretat provide a stunning backdrop for a paddle along the Alabaster Coast. Sail with Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries.

Best for cycling

Swap the busy weekend roads of the UK for more of a relaxing cycle. The Velomaritime along the north coast of France is a well-marked 1,500 km cycle route from Dunkirk to Roscoff encompassing iconic landmarks such as Mont St Michel and the Pink Granite Coast, with some of France’s best-known regions for gastronomy. Sail with Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries.

Well-known for its flat landscape and traffic-free cycle routes, the Netherlands is a great place for leisure cyclists. Westduinparknear The Hague is one of the beautiful nature reserves in the area with a diverse landscape and even freely-roaming highland cows. Sail with DFDS, P&O Ferries and Stena Line.

Although the Isle of Wight stage of the Tour of Britain was cancelled in 2022, due to the late queen’s passing, cyclists can still tackle the challenging route from Ryde to the Needles. Take advantage of free carriage for bikes on Hovertravel, Red Funnel and Wightlink.

Really only known to locals, the Thames Path along the River Thames in London offers long stretches of traffic-free cycling. For a great day out cycle along some of London’s most historic neighbourhoods from London Bridge to Royal Greenwich, through Rotherhithe and the original mooring spot of the Pilgrim Fathers’ Mayflower ship, to the Brunel Museum and past the Cutty Sark into Greenwich. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers takes up to 20 bikes on board and serves 24 piers along the Thames.

Best for walking with the dog

If your dog is as much a part of your holiday plans as your suitcase, ferry travel opens up a wide range of pet-friendly destinations. The cliff path between Freshwater Bay and Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while some areas are restricted for dogs, you can walk your pooch between Brook Chine and Hanover or on the dog-friendly beach below Fort Redoubt all year-roundSail with Hovertravel, Red Funnel and Wightlink.

Easily accessible by ferry, with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company to Douglas, which gained city status for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Head towards the scenic bridged gorge and waterfall of Glen Maye for an invigorating walk with your four-legged furry friend.

Best for hiking

For breath-taking scenery and more challenging hiking we recommend the mountainous terrain of the Inner Hebrides, Ireland and Northern Spain. In the Hebrides combine your hike with the thrill of minke whale-watching, best seen from April to October from Caledonian MacBrayne’s ferry service. These incredible creatures can also be glimpsed when exploring hiking routes in Carsaig on the south coast of the Isle of Mull.

The snow-capped Picos de Europa in Cantabria, Spain are visible when you sail into Santander. The high alpine region offers varying levels of hiking, from a few hours to long distance GR routes.  Try the Ruta de Cares, a relatively easy hike along the Cares Gorge, with dramatic precipices. Sail with Brittany Ferries.

Urban walkers can combine treading the streets of Dublin with the green route of Howth’s Cliffs with views of the Mourne Mountains, Bailey Lighthouse and the Wicklow Mountains. Sail with Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries, Stena Line and Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (seasonal service).

Best for surfing

If you enjoyed learning to surf in Cornwall last summer, go further afield via ferry and test your skills on the rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the sandy beaches of the Channel Islands and France. Suitable for all levels, try Jersey’s long beaches of St Ouen’s Bay and uncrowded beaches of Bidart on the French Atlantique Coast. Sail with Condor Ferries to Jersey and Brittany Ferries to Bilbao, Spain for Bidart.

Beginners and well-practised surfers will love the beaches of Ireland’s County Sligo, while more advanced surfers will be challenged by the Uig peninsula on the Isle of Lewis. Sail to Ireland with Irish Ferries, Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (seasonal service), P&O Ferries, Stena Line. Sail to the Isle of Lewis with Caledonian MacBrayne.

Best for sea kayaking/coasteering

Being near or on water improves our wellbeing and lifts our spirits*, so why not travel by ferry and try kayaking or coasteering. Guernsey’s south coast near Petit Bot is ideal for families and adrenaline junkies. With the chance to vary activities for first-timers and daredevils, there’s something for everyone from rock-hopping, shore scrambling to wave-riding, and even cliff-jumping. Sail with Condor Ferries.

Those keen to strengthen their rowing muscles can discover the beauty of south-west Ireland’s Killarney Lakes with a guided kayaking tour from Ross Castle and soak up the stunning mountain and lake views. Sail with Irish Ferries, Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (seasonal service), P&O Ferries and Stena Line.

The Ardennes is the adventure centre of Belgium, and kayaking in the Ourthe, Semois and Lesse rivers offers spectacular views of the steep cliffs, green forests and castles along the way. For the more advanced kayaker, head to Houyet down river to Anseremme, taking in Walzin Castle as you go. Sail with DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries.

Best for golf

The best way for golfers to explore the uncrowded golf courses of Northern France is via ferry with flexible booking and plenty of car boot space for golf clubs. Arriving overnight into Brittany’s port of St Malo or on the short-sea crossings into Dunkirk and Calais brings you close to the challenging fairways of the local golf courses. Offering visitor golfers great value, the cost of green fees at local French courses compare favourably to British golf clubs. Try Golf de St Malo, Golf des Ormes and close to Dunkirk, Golf Du Bois De Ruminghem. Sail with Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries.

With some of the best golf-courses in the world, Ireland is definitely a destination for golfing enthusiasts. Arrive in Belfast and drive down to Newcastle to the Royal County Down Golf club with pristine greens and vistas over the sea to the mountains. Sail with Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (seasonal service), P&O Ferries and Stena Line.

Best for mountain sports

Not just popular during the winter holiday season, mountain resorts offer activities all year round. Whether you are transporting skis and snowboards or climbing and hiking gear, ferries offer great value crossings to favourite destinations including Courchevel, Chamonix and Morzine. If you enjoy the thrill of mountain winter-sports, why not try the excitement of adrenaline sports in the summer, from white water sports, wild swimming and paragliding to mountaineering and mountain-biking. Sail with Brittany Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries.

*If you are taking your pet to Ireland or into the European Union you will need to visit the vet at least one month in advance to get an Animal Health Certificate. More information about pet travel can be found here.

Two Wheels Good

Getting out on your bicycle is not only a great way to reconnect with nature and the great outdoors, but it’s also a good way to stay fit and healthy and disconnect from our busy daily lives. Discovering a destination by bike has never been easier, with more traffic-free routes and cycle paths available than ever and cycle routes to suit all abilities. We’ve put together a list of our top picks for cycle routes accessible via ferry.

Tilburg, Trappe Koningshoeven ©Visit Brabant

Sample the 5 Trappists

This cross-border cycle route takes you to Trappist breweries in Brabant and Flanders in The Netherlands and Belgium.

What could be better than a mix of exploring the mainly flat countryside of The Netherlands and Belgium by bicycle with the reward of an artisan Trappist beer to keep you motivated? Based on an existing cross-border cycle route, this 334km route is split into six sections, the shortest being 30km (18 miles) and the longest 76km (47 miles). Each section features a mix of rural landscape, villages, and cities and, as the name suggests, a Trappist brewery to sample some of Flanders’ and Brabant’s famous artisan beers. There is a detailed guide for the route, including suggestions of where to eat and where to stay en route on the Visit Brabant website

Getting to Brechte – P&O Ferries sail to Rotterdam from Hull and Stena Line sail from Harwich to Hook of Holland. If travelling by bicycle sail to Rotterdam or Hook of Holland and catch the train to Brechte. If travelling by car the journey time is 1h15 from Rotterdam/ Hook of Holland. It’s also possible to sail to Calais or Dunkirk from Dover with Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries or DFDS, then the journey time by car to Brechte is between 2-3 hours.

Traffic-free Trail Rides on the Isle of Wight

Red-Squirrel Trail – this 32-mile scenic trial takes you through woodland, wetlands, countryside, and of course along part of the Island’s stunning coastline. Though the trail is mainly flat, it is off-road, so you will need an appropriate bicycle for varied terrain and gradients. It is suitable for all abilities and can be broken down into smaller sections.

For those of you who are looking for more of a challenge, Chalk Ridge Extreme has been described in The Guardian as ‘superlative off-road cycling’, with challenging gradients, mud and slippery chalk surfaces. Though not all traffic-free (there are some road sections that link you to bridleways), this 53-mile route takes in some of the islands most important landmarks such as The Needles and Carisbrooke Castle.

Getting to the Isle of Wight: Hovertravel sails from Southsea to Ryde. Bicycles are stored in the hold. Red Funnel sails from Southampton to Cowes.  Wightlink sails from Portsmouth to Fishguard and Lymington to Yarmouth. Bicycles are free of charge on all routes.

Jersey – from East to West: Gorey to St Ouen’s Bay

Jersey boasts beautiful sea views, plenty of hills and lush countryside and with 96 miles of official signposted cycle routes it has plenty to offer all levels of cyclists from short routes between bays and a re-invented railway path, to the 40-mile Around the island coastal route circumnavigating the island.

Although most of Jersey’s 10 official cycle routes do visit a beach at some point, cycling through Jersey’s fields and countryside offers a more relaxed cycling experience. Surrounded by beautiful fields and flowers the Gorey to St Ouen’s Bay route is 14.5 miles and takes in sights such as Gorey Castle, Mont Orgueil Castle, La Hougue Bie and St Ouen’s Church.

To see all Jersey’s official cycle routes click here.

Getting to Jersey: Condor Ferries sail from Poole and Portsmouth to Jersey. There’s no extra charge for bringing a bike as a foot passenger, though you will need to book it in as space is limited. Bicycles can also be carried on bike racks on the back or roof of your vehicle.

The Vélo Francette Cycle route, France

For those who want a multi-day cycle experience, the Vélo Francette cycle route starts in Ouistreham in Normandy and heads south, on signposted track, through Normandy, the Loire to La Rochelle on the Atlantic coast, meandering along waterways, through peaceful countryside, picturesque villages and regional natural parks.

However, as not everyone wants to cycle 600km you can also do sections of the route for some outstanding cycling experiences. The Normandy part of the route covers 140k and goes through historic D-Day landing beaches, Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park, the hilly Suisse Normande (Norman Switzerland) and the fortified medieval town of Domfront.

The La Velo Francette website includes great information such as bike trip ideas and unmissable sights.

Getting to Ouistreham: Brittany Ferries sails directly to Caen, or nearby, Le Havre from Portsmouth. DFDS sails to Dieppe from Newhaven. Ouistreham is a 2-hour drive from Dieppe. DFDS, Irish Ferries, and P&O Ferries sail to Calais from Dover. Ouistreham is a 3.5-hour drive from Calais.

Isle of Mull, Scotland – Circular Route

Starting at the ferry terminal at Craignure the circular route around the Isle of Mull offers spectacular scenery that’s hard to beat – rugged mountains, coastline, villages and wildlife. The Isle of Mull is the perfect island getaway for those who enjoy challenging cycling. The whole circular route is 85 miles but luckily there are several convenient short cuts, and different sections if you want to cycle over different days.

For more details on the route and other stunning cycle routes click here.

Getting to Mull: Caledonian MacBrayne sails to Craignure from Oban, bicycles can be brought on the ferry at no additional charge.

London: Thames Path – London Bridge to Greenwich

Linking famous tourist attractions Tower Bridge and the Tower of London to the Cutty Sark and the Royal Naval College in Greenwich, National Route 4 heads east along the Thames from London Bridge through Bermondsey, Rotherhithe and Deptford. The narrow streets of Bermondsey and Rotherhithe, that used to house dock-side warehouses, have now been converted into stylish apartments. Don’t miss two Rotherhithe gems, The Brunel Museum and Thames Tunnel, the oldest tunnel in the oldest Underground in the world, and The Mayflower pub, where the Pilgrim Father’s ship, the Mayflower, moored in 1620 before it departed for the New World. The route is 4.7 miles.

Getting from Greenwich to London Bridge with bikes: Uber Boat by Thames Clippers operates regular westbound services from Greenwich to London Bridge City pier, the journey takes approximately 30 mins and up to 14 bicycles can be accommodated on the vessels.

Isle of Man – Island of Champions

As you would expect from the birthplace of Mark Cavendish and Peter Kennaugh, the Isle of Man offers a lot of fantastic cycling routes for keen cyclists and leisure cyclists, whether you are looking for a family afternoon activity or a challenging hill cycle to get the adrenaline pumping, there’s a route for you.

The 10-mile Heritage Trail follows the old steam railway line from Douglas to Peel and is ideal for families as its flat and traffic free. The route goes past the Union Mills, through woodland and along countryside trails.

The ultimate road bike route is the 91-mile round the island Raad Daawheeyl tour, which you can do either do in sections, or if you’re really fit, then in a day. This circular route sticks to the coastal road and takes in many of the Isle of Man’s sights including Castle Rushen, the Sound and Calf of Man, Peel Castle, Kirk Maughold Church and Laxey Wheel.

For more cycling inspiration on the Isle of Man go Visit Isle of Man

Getting to the Isle of Man: Isle of Man Steam Packet Company sail from Heysham, year-round and from Belfast, Liverpool and Dublin in the summer season. Bicycles can be taken on board at no extra cost.

Ireland’s Ancient East & the North’s Causeway Coastal Route

Waterford Greenway Trail is a beautiful 28-mile trail runs along an old railway line from Waterford to Dungarvan, past ancient aqueducts, Viking settlement and medieval ruins, with scenery ranging from the Comeragh Mountains to the coves and rocky headlands of the Copper Coast. The Greenway opened in 2017, exactly 50 years after the last train serviced the route, for use by walkers and cyclists. It is mainly flat so suitable for all levels and is divided into six sections, if you don’t want to tackle it in one go.

Getting to Waterford – Irish Ferries and Stena Line sail to Rosslare from Pembroke and Fishguard. Waterford is just over an hour drive from Rosslare.

Causeway Coast and Glens, Co Derry & Antrim. This 100-mile coastal road running from Larne to Derry passes by some of the most spectacular coastline in Europe, the Nine Glens of Antrim, the river valleys of the Bann and the Roe and natural wonders such as the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-o-Rede, not to mention the famous Bushmills Whiskey Distillery.  Note that this is a public road and some sections can be very busy with traffic.

Click here for shorter cycling options in the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Getting to Larne: Stena Line and P&O Ferries sail from Cairnryan in Scotland to Belfast and Larne. Isle of Man Steam Packet Company sails to Belfast from Douglas seasonally.

Find out more about how to take your bike on the ferry.