How to Take a Motorhome or Campervan on a Ferry

Understanding Ferry Travel with a Recreational Vehicle

Taking your motorhome or campervan on a ferry opens up incredible travel opportunities, allowing you to explore islands, remote coastlines, and even different countries without the hassle of packing and unpacking. Whether you're dreaming of island hopping in the Greek Cyclades, exploring the fjords of Norway, or crossing the Adriatic Sea, understanding the specifics of ferry travel with an RV is crucial for a smooth journey.

Ferry operators categorize vehicles based on length, height, and sometimes weight. Motorhomes and campervans generally fall into specific vehicle classes that differ from standard cars. It is essential to accurately declare your vehicle's dimensions during booking to avoid issues at the port.

Choosing the Right Ferry Route and Operator

The first step in planning your motorhome ferry trip is to identify suitable routes and operators. Many popular tourist regions, such as the Mediterranean (e.g., Italy to Greece, Spain to Mallorca), Scandinavia (e.g., Denmark to Norway), and the UK to Ireland, have extensive ferry networks accommodating RVs.

Major operators like Grimaldi Lines, Minoan Lines, Blue Star Ferries, DFDS Seaways, and Color Line are well-equipped to handle larger vehicles. When researching, look for routes that offer sufficient deck space and suitable ramps for motorhomes. For specific routes and live timetables, you can easily check the schedules and availability on this website.

Key Considerations for Route Selection:

• Destination Accessibility: Ensure your desired destination island or port is accessible by ferry for your vehicle type.
• Journey Duration: Longer routes might offer overnight crossings with cabin options, which can be more comfortable for extended travel.
• Port Facilities: Some smaller ports might have limitations on vehicle size, so always confirm in advance.

Accurate Vehicle Measurement and Booking

Accurate vehicle dimensions are paramount when booking a ferry for your motorhome or campervan. Even a small discrepancy can lead to problems at check-in or additional charges. Always measure your vehicle from the furthest point at the front to the furthest point at the back, including any bike racks, tow bars, or rear-mounted storage boxes. For height, measure from the ground to the highest point, including roof-mounted air conditioning units, satellite dishes, or solar panels.

When booking online, you will typically be asked to select your vehicle type (e.g., 'motorhome', 'campervan', 'caravan with car') and enter its exact length and height. Some operators also ask for weight, especially for very large vehicles. It is advisable to have your vehicle registration document handy as it often contains key dimensions.

Tips for Booking:

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (summer holidays, bank holidays), vehicle spaces, particularly for larger RVs, can sell out quickly. Booking several months ahead is recommended.
• Compare Prices: Fares can vary significantly between operators and departure times. Use this website to compare options for your chosen route.
• Consider Flexi-Tickets: If your travel plans might change, a flexible ticket, though often slightly more expensive, can save you money and stress in the long run.
• Cabin Options: For overnight sailings, booking a cabin is highly recommended for comfort and security.

Preparing Your Motorhome for the Journey

Before driving your motorhome onto the ferry, several preparations are necessary to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Inside the Motorhome:

• Secure All Items: Stow away loose items, especially in cupboards and on counters, to prevent them from shifting or falling during the journey. This includes securing the fridge door and any internal tables.
• Turn Off Gas and Appliances: All gas cylinders must be turned off at the bottle. Disconnect any electrical appliances that are not essential. This is a crucial safety requirement on all ferries.
• Close Windows and Vents: Ensure all windows, roof lights, and vents are securely closed to prevent water ingress or damage from strong winds.

Outside the Motorhome:

• Check Tyre Pressure: Ensure tyres are correctly inflated for the vehicle's weight.
• Remove Loose External Items: If you have anything temporarily attached to the exterior that could become dislodged (e.g., additional temporary storage, delicate covers), consider removing it.
• Fuel Level: While not usually a strict requirement, some passengers prefer to have a moderate fuel level, avoiding both an empty tank and a completely full one, though this is less critical than for cars.

Arriving at the Port and Boarding Procedures

Arrive at the port well in advance of your scheduled departure time. Most operators recommend arriving at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before, especially with a large vehicle. This allows ample time for check-in, customs (if applicable), and queuing.

Follow the signs for 'Motorhomes' or 'Freight/Commercial Vehicles' if available, as these lanes are often wider. At check-in, you will present your booking confirmation and passports/ID. Staff may visually inspect your vehicle to confirm its dimensions match your booking.

When called to board, follow the instructions of the port and ferry staff carefully. They are experts at directing large vehicles onto the vessel. Drive slowly and be aware of your vehicle's height and width, especially when navigating ramps and tight turns inside the ferry's vehicle deck. You may be directed to park very close to other vehicles or walls.

Onboard the Ferry and Disembarkation

Once parked on the vehicle deck, engage your handbrake, put the vehicle in gear, and turn off your engine. For safety, it's often recommended to turn off your gas supply at the bottle if you haven't already. Note the location of your vehicle and the nearest stairwell or exit before leaving the vehicle deck, as you will not be allowed to remain in your motorhome during the journey.

Head to the passenger areas to enjoy the facilities, which might include restaurants, cafes, shops, and seating areas. If you booked a cabin, locate it and settle in. During the journey, vehicle decks are typically locked and inaccessible, except in emergencies.

Before arrival, announcements will be made calling passengers back to their vehicles. Return promptly to your motorhome, start your engine, and prepare to disembark. Be patient and wait for the vehicles in front of you to move. Follow the directions of the crew to exit the ferry safely and efficiently. Once off the ferry, remember to turn your gas supply back on if you turned it off at the bottle, and check all your internal items before continuing your journey.

Navigating Potential Challenges and Solutions

While ferry travel with a motorhome is generally straightforward, being aware of potential challenges can help you prepare.

• Weather Delays: Strong winds or rough seas can cause delays or cancellations. Always check the operator's website or port authority for updates before heading to the port.
• Tight Parking: Vehicle decks can be confined. If you're new to driving a large vehicle, practice maneuvering in tight spaces beforehand. Don't hesitate to ask ferry staff for assistance if needed.
• Language Barriers: In some international ports, language can be a barrier. Have your booking details and vehicle dimensions written down clearly to assist communication.
• Costs: Ferry travel with a motorhome is generally more expensive than with a car due to the space occupied. Factor this into your overall travel budget.
• Pet Travel: If traveling with pets, research the ferry operator's pet policy in advance. Some offer pet-friendly cabins or designated pet areas, while others require pets to remain in the vehicle (which is not allowed on many routes for safety reasons once sailing).

By following these guidelines, your motorhome or campervan ferry adventure can be a comfortable, stress-free, and memorable part of your travels, opening up a world of new destinations to explore.