Ferries from Poole or Portsmouth on the south coast of England, or Rosslare in Ireland provide good connections to Normandy, and it’s both quick and simple to book directly on-line with the ferry companies (Brittany Ferries or Irish Ferries). Day trips and special offers are available throughout the year and there is a wide choice of facilities and accommodation on board to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. From March to October there are several fast craft services available, making a day trip from the south of England a realistic option; with 24 hour return fares as low as £45 for a car and 2 people the savings in France are quickly recouped. Travelling from the Irish Republic needs more time, but return crossings for a car and 2 people on the luxurious Oscar Wilde can be as low as €200 including a cabin both ways.

Ferry Operators

From the South of England

Brittany Ferries operate a modern fleet of both classic cruise ferries and fastcraft from either Portsmouth or Poole to Cherbourg or Ouistreham. If you cross the channel regularly as I do you can’t fail to be impressed by the quality of service on offer backed, up by attentive and willing on-board staff. The Normandie Express can occasionally be a bit lumpy, but the level of concern shown if you are feeling unwell or have a young family to cope with is quite honestly exceptional. The company is also making a big push on pricing for 2008, so expect to find even better value for money.

From Ireland

Irish Ferries operate a service from Rosslare direct to Cherbourg. The route is served by the magnificent MV Oscar Wilde which is every bit as good as the company’s own publicity suggests and boasts levels of comfort and space that you might find on certain cruise liners. Cabins are a huge improvement on the previous vessel the MV Normandy, passenger areas are welcoming and comfortable and the food is good too, especially the Bernavel a-la-carte restaurant and steak house where we are proud to supply all the wines.

Celtic Link Ferries also operate the same route with 3 weekly sailings using their vessel the MV Diplomat. She is predominantly a freight vessel but passengers and their cars are welcome too although space is limited. If you are travelling on a budget this might be an option worth considering; she is a friendly ship, accommodation is basic but very clean and comfortable and meals are included in the fare.

Our Stores

Our shops in both Cherbourg and Ouistreham have car parks and are conveniently close to the ferry terminals, allowing easy access for foot passengers. Click here to view our store location maps. We are happy to provide delivery of purchases to the ferry terminals, should you wish.