United Kingdom
Portsmouth to Cherbourg Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Portsmouth
Arrives
Cherbourg
Normandy
Brittany FerriesAt a glance
The Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry takes about 8h 30m, with 2 listed sailings between 00:15 and 23:30. It is operated by Brittany Ferries.
- First sailing
- 00:15
- Last sailing
- 23:30
- Sailings listed
- 2
- Crossing
- 8h 30m
Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry timetable
| Departs | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00:15 | 8h 30m | Brittany Ferries | Thu |
| 23:30 | 8h 30m | Brittany Ferries | Thu, Sun |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Portsmouth – Cherbourg crossing
The port of Cherbourg provides onward ferry connections to both Dublin and Rosslare in Ireland. From the UK side, Portsmouth serves as a hub for sailings to Le Havre, Ouistreham, Bilbao, and Santander. This crossing connects the south of England with the Cotentin Peninsula in Normandy, France.
Brittany Ferries operates this route with two sailings, one on Thursday and one on Sunday. The crossing duration is 8 hours 30 minutes. Departures are scheduled for 00:15 and 23:30.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Cruise-ferry cabins
- Restaurants & cinemas
- Vehicle decks
- LNG & hybrid ships
- Pet-friendly cabins
Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
When's the first ferry of the day?
The first sailing leaves at 00:15.
How long does the crossing take?
About 8h 30m.
Who runs this ferry crossing?
Brittany Ferries.
How many sailings run each day?
2 sailings a day, Thu, Sun.
Does this ferry cross an international border?
No, it's entirely within United Kingdom.
On which days does the ferry operate?
It runs Thu, Sun.
How much does a ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (Brittany Ferries) for current fares.
Can I do this as a day trip?
A same-day return is tight on this route — the crossing takes about 8h 30m each way. Most travellers stay at least one night. Check the return sailings before planning a day trip.
Is there an overnight option?
Some sailings run overnight — the longest crossing is around 8h 30m, and cabins or reclining seats are usually available. Check the individual sailing and operator for onboard sleeping options.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailings operate on selected days, and frequency can change between the summer and winter seasons. The timetable above shows the latest published departures — confirm with the operator for off-season dates.
Can I take a car on this ferry?
Yes — Brittany Ferries carries vehicles on this route. Book your car space in advance, especially in peak season, and check the specific sailing for size limits.
Can I take a pet on this ferry?
Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with Brittany Ferries, so declare your pet when booking.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Cherbourg
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Cherbourg.
Same departure port
More ferries from Portsmouth
Other crossings departing Portsmouth.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Portsmouth or Cherbourg
Other ferries that stop at the same quays — handy for connections and nearby travel.
Timetable valid Jul 2, 2026 – Jul 1, 2027.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 24, 2026.
Operated by
Ports on this route
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