(c) Wikideas1 / CC0How to Take a Car on a Ferry: A Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about driving onto a ferry — booking vehicle space, what to do at the terminal, and how to board safely.
By Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub· Published June 10, 2026· updated July 17, 2026
Taking your car on a ferry turns the crossing into the easy part of a road trip — but the process differs from boarding as a foot passenger. Here's how it works from booking to boarding.
1. Book vehicle space in advance
Car decks have limited capacity and sell out fastest in summer and on weekends. When booking, you'll usually be asked for your vehicle's length and sometimes its height — quote them accurately, because oversized vehicles (vans, vehicles with roof boxes, trailers) are charged differently and may need a dedicated lane.
2. Arrive early at the terminal
Vehicle check-in typically closes 30–60 minutes before departure. Arrive within the operator's recommended window so marshals can load the deck efficiently. You'll be directed to a numbered lane and board in sequence.
3. On the car deck
- Follow the crew's directions and park close to the vehicle in front.
- Leave your car in gear (or "Park") with the handbrake on.
- Take everything you'll need for the crossing — on most routes you cannot return to the car deck while underway.
- Note your deck and lane so you can find the car again on arrival.
4. Fares and tips
Car fares are usually quoted separately from passenger fares and often include the driver. Booking a return can be cheaper than two singles, and midweek or off-peak sailings are frequently the best value. Always check the operator's latest fares before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to give my registration number when booking a ferry?
Usually, yes. Most operators ask for the plate at booking and use it to match your vehicle to the reservation at the port gate. If you book before knowing the plate — a hire car, for example — most systems let you add or amend it later.
Can I stay in my car during a ferry crossing?
No. Passengers must leave the vehicle deck before departure and it remains closed while the ship is underway, for safety reasons. Take everything you will need for the crossing with you, because on overnight sailings you will not return to the car until arrival.
Do I have to declare an LPG vehicle on a ferry?
Yes. Gas-powered vehicles are accepted on most routes but under specific conditions, typically with the gas system switched off during the crossing. Declare it at booking — arriving undeclared can mean being refused at the ramp.
Can I charge an electric car on a ferry?
Generally not. On-board charging is rarely offered and several operators explicitly forbid plugging in on the vehicle deck. Board with enough charge to reach a charger beyond your arrival port, and check your operator's current EV conditions before travelling.
How are trailers, caravans and roof boxes charged on ferries?
By the combined length and height of the whole rig, so quote total dimensions when booking. Ports often measure vehicles in the check-in lanes, and under-declared dimensions are charged on the spot — or can cost you the sailing.
What documents do I need to take my car on an international ferry?
Alongside your passport and ticket, carry the vehicle’s registration document (the V5C logbook in the UK, or a VE103 authorisation letter for a hire car), your driving licence, and proof of motor insurance. A green card is no longer needed to drive within the EU but can still be required for some non-EU countries, so check your cover before travelling. Keep the paperwork to hand, as border or customs staff may ask for it on arrival.
Keep reading