Ferry operators compared
Baleària vs DFDS
An objective, data-based look at Baleària and DFDS — their route networks, fleets and the crossings they both serve.
Spain
- Routes
- 57
- Founded
- 1998
- Fleet
- ~34 vessels
- Base
- Dénia, Alicante, Spain
Onboard
Denmark
- Routes
- 14
- Founded
- 1866
- Fleet
- ~50 ferries (incl. ~11 passenger)
- Base
- Copenhagen, Denmark
Onboard
Routes they both serve
On these crossings you can choose between Baleària and DFDS.
Which should you choose?
Based on the data we track, Baleària has the wider route network, and they compete head-to-head on 4 crossings such as Algeciras → Ceuta and Algeciras → Tánger Med. DFDS is the longer-established company (1866 vs 1998); DFDS runs the larger fleet (~50 ferries (incl. ~11 passenger) vessels); Baleària lists lng & fast ferries, seats & cabins, vehicle decks that DFDS doesn't; DFDS lists cruise-ferry cabins, restaurants & entertainment, vehicle & freight decks that Baleària doesn't.On any route they both run, the practical choice comes down to the departure time that fits your plans, the crossing duration and the onboard facilities you need — open the route page to see both operators' sailings side by side, and confirm fares and times before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do Baleària and DFDS run the same routes?
Yes — they both operate 4 of the same crossings, so on those routes you can choose between them by departure time and onboard experience.
Which operator has more routes, Baleària or DFDS?
Baleària serves 57 routes and DFDS serves 14 routes across the network we track.
How do I choose between Baleària and DFDS?
On a shared crossing the choice usually comes down to the departure time that suits you, crossing duration and onboard facilities. Compare both on the specific route page and confirm details with the operator before booking.
Which is the older ferry company?
Baleària was founded in 1998 and DFDS in 1866.