United Kingdom
SailLink Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
SailLink Dover
Arrives
Boulogne-sur-Mer
SailLinkAt a glance
The SailLink Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer ferry takes about 4h 30m. It is operated by SailLink.
- Sailings listed
- 0
- Crossing
- 4h 30m
SailLink Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer ferry timetable
Seasonal sailing times
The SailLink Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer ferry is operated by SailLink, and the crossing takes about 4h 30m. Sailings change with the season, and departures are confirmed ahead of each sailing period.
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the SailLink Dover – Boulogne-sur-Mer crossing
The SailLink service from Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer is a very different kind of Channel crossing: a small, wind-powered foot-passenger and cycle ferry that revives a historic link between England and France. Run by a startup that launched its first season in 2025, SailLink is the first scheduled passenger sailing ferry on the route, carrying travellers marina to marina rather than through the big industrial vehicle ports.
The vessel and the crossing
Crossings are made aboard Echoes, a 17-metre sailing catamaran that relies primarily on wind and tide, with the operator reporting that around 70% of first-season crossings were made entirely under sail. The passage takes roughly 4 to 5 hours depending on the weather, so it is an experience in its own right rather than a quick shuttle. Capacity is very limited, at up to 12 passengers per crossing.
Who it is for
SailLink is aimed squarely at foot passengers, cyclists and hikers, and also offers small-scale low-carbon micro-freight. Bikes are welcome for a small fee. This is not a vehicle ferry: you cannot bring a car, motorhome or motorcycle. Because it depends on the weather and small passenger numbers, individual sailings can occasionally be moved or cancelled, so flexibility is.
2026 season and border rules
SailLink returns for a second season in 2026, restarting in mid-April and running through roughly to mid-September, with around six to eight trips per week planned, weather permitting. As a small seasonal operator its schedule is limited and demand for the few seats is high, so book early. Standard post-Brexit rules apply: UK passport holders need a valid passport, the EU's biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) is now in force, and an ETIAS authorisation is expected later in 2026.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Specialty coffee and local French bakes
- Dedicated and secure bike handling
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
Is SailLink actually operating in 2026?
Yes. After launching its first season in 2025, SailLink returns for a second season in 2026, restarting in mid-April and running to around mid-September, with roughly six to eight sailings per week planned, weather permitting. It is a small seasonal startup, so the schedule is limited.
How long does the SailLink Dover to Boulogne crossing take?
The crossing takes approximately 4 to 5 hours depending on wind and weather conditions, because the catamaran sails rather than motoring the whole way. It is a slow, scenic crossing rather than a fast shuttle.
Can I bring a car on SailLink?
No. SailLink is a foot-passenger and cycle service only, carrying up to 12 passengers per crossing aboard a 17-metre sailing catamaran. It cannot take cars, motorhomes or motorcycles. Bikes are welcome for a small extra fee.
How many passengers can SailLink carry?
The vessel, a sailing catamaran named Echoes, carries a maximum of 12 passengers per crossing. Capacity is very limited, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
Is SailLink really powered by sail?
Yes. Echoes relies primarily on wind and tide, and the operator reported that around 70% of first-season crossings were completed entirely under sail. A hybrid motor provides backup, making it a low-carbon alternative to conventional ferries.
What passport rules apply to the SailLink crossing?
The same post-Brexit rules as other Channel routes apply. UK passport holders travel visa-free for short stays with a valid passport, the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is now operational, and an ETIAS authorisation is expected later in 2026. Confirm border procedures for the marina crossing when you book.
How much does a ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (SailLink) for current fares.
Who operates this ferry?
Served by SailLink.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailing frequency on this route varies by season. Confirm current dates with the operator before travelling.
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 SailLink, so declare your pet when booking.
What's the luggage allowance?
Foot passengers can normally bring their own luggage aboard at no extra charge, with racks or a luggage area near the entrance, and there is usually no airline-style weight limit. Oversized or excess items may carry a fee, so check with the operator if you are travelling with bulky baggage.
Where can I check live sailing times?
The timetable on this page shows the latest published sailings for this route. Always confirm with the operator before travelling, as schedules change seasonally.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 14, 2026.
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