Calais-Dover.com » Ferry Checklist: What You Need Before You Sail

Ferry Checklist: What You Need Before You Sail

Crossing the Channel is easy, but the paperwork changed a lot in the last two years. Run through this checklist before you set off and nothing at the port will surprise you.

Your documents

Everyone needs a full passport, children included. Check the expiry date: for France your passport must be issued less than 10 years ago and valid for at least 3 months after your return date.
Travelling to the UK from the EU? An EU identity card is no longer enough: you need a passport, plus a UK ETA (see below).

The new border rules

EES (for UK travellers to France): the EU registers non-EU visitors biometrically. On this route it happens at the French border control in Dover before you board. Your first registration takes a few extra minutes (photo and fingerprints), so allow extra time; after that it is a quick scan.
UK ETA (for EU travellers to the UK): since February 2026 every EU visitor needs an Electronic Travel Authorisation. It costs £20, is valid for two years, and you apply in minutes via the official UK ETA app. Arrange it before you travel: the ferry operators check it at check-in, and without one you will not board.
ETIAS (coming up): the EU’s own travel authorisation for UK visitors is expected to start late 2026. It is not required yet; check shortly before you travel.

At the port

Check-in closes 60 to 90 minutes before departure for vehicles, and 90 minutes for foot passengers. Add margin on busy days and while the EES rollout continues. Delays and queues show early: check our sailing updates page and the port webcams before you leave home.

Please note: the check-in times on this page are an indication to help you estimate how much time to allow for your journey. Always follow the official information from the operator you travel with or the company you booked with.

In and around your car

Fit headlamp beam deflectors (or switch your beams in the car settings) and put a UK sticker on the back.
France requires a warning triangle and reflective vests within reach. Our driving in Europe guide has the full kit list.
Towing or in a motorhome? Gas bottles are allowed on board (up to 47 kg, turned off and declared at check-in): see the caravan guide.
Know how to switch your car alarm to transport mode. Your car crosses on a moving deck with nobody inside, and a motion-sensitive alarm will go off mid-Channel; your handbook shows how, usually one extra press when locking.
Read up on driving on the right before you go: the first roundabout off the ferry is where mistakes happen, and French limits are in km/h while your dashboard shows miles. Our driving in Europe guide walks you through it.