Portsmouth to Cherbourg Ferry

Portsmouth to Cherbourg first ferry: departs Portsmouth at 11:30.
Portsmouth to Cherbourg last ferry: departs Portsmouth at around 23:15.

Bear in mind that Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry times can vary by season. We recommend checking the latest Portsmouth to Cherbourg timetable before you book. 

How long is the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry crossing?

How long the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry is depends on whether you’re travelling on a Portsmouth to Cherbourg fast ferry or a conventional ferry. The Portsmouth to Cherbourg crossing time is usually around 7 hours 45 minutes on average.

Average Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry time: 7 hours 45 minutes 
Fastest ferry crossing to Cherbourg: 4 hours  
Longest ferry crossing to Cherbourg: 8 hours

Fast Ferry to France from Portsmouth

The fastest ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg takes 4 hours. Bear in mind, the Portsmouth to France ferry time can vary.

Portsmouth to Cherbourg Ferry Schedule

Ferries from Portsmouth to Cherbourg are provided by 1 ferry company; Brittany Ferries with 1 daily and 3 weekly sailings. Bear in mind, the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry timetable can change throughout the seasons, with more options available in the summer months. 

Ferry frequency: the Cherbourg ferry from Portsmouth runs all year round 

Brittany Ferries: 1 daily sailing and 3 weekly sailings 

How much is the ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg?

Portsmouth to France ferry prices can vary depending on the ferry company you're travelling with and the season you're travelling in. 

Average Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry price: £316.00

How far is Portsmouth from Cherbourg?

The distance between Portsmouth to Cherbourg is approximately 88.0 miles (141.6km) or 76 nautical miles.

Can I take the ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg with a car?

Yes, you can get the ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg with a car.

Car operators: Brittany Ferries 
Car operator prices: usually between £153 and £640
Lowest car price: £96

Can I travel as a foot passenger to Cherbourg from Portsmouth?

Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Portsmouth Cherbourg ferry.

Portsmouth to Cherbourg foot passenger ferries: Brittany Ferries 
Foot passenger prices: usually between £67 and £341
Cheapest foot passenger price: £31

Can I take my camper on ferries from Portsmouth to Cherbourg?

Yes, you can take your camper on the ferry to Cherbourg from UK (Portsmouth). See below for approximate prices for UK to Cherbourg ferries.

Camper prices: usually between £214 and £643
Cheapest camper price: £129

Can you take your pet with you on the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry?

Here's everything you need to know about taking your pet on the ferry to Cherbourg.

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg?  

Pets are allowed on ferries to Cherbourg from Portsmouth. However, you must let the ferry company know you are travelling with a pet at the time of your booking.

Pet-friendly operators: 
Brittany Ferries

What will I need when travelling with my pet?  

You will need the following things with you when travelling with your pet on board ferries from UK to Cherbourg.

• Health documents showing your pet’s vaccinations
• Everything your pet needs for a safe and comfortable journey such as water, food and a lead

Where will my pet stay during the Portsmouth Cherbourg ferry crossing?  

Brittany Ferries:

• Pets can either travel in pet-friendly cabins, in onboard kennels or in your vehicle
• Pets must be muzzled and on a lead when outside of the cabin or kennels 

Travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs

You can travel with guide dogs and assistance dogs for free on the ferry to Cherbourg with Brittany Ferries. However, you must let the ferry company know at the time of booking. You may also have to present any necessary certificates if asked to do so on board.

Pet price

Brittany Ferries: from £35 each way

Everything you need to know about Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Portsmouth to Cherbourg?  

We recommend to book your ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg in advance to get it at the cheapest price. The Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry cost varies depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Cherbourg Portsmouth ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re wanting to travel on a UK to Cherbourg ferry in summer it’s always best to make you book in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the cheapest ferry to Cherbourg.

Do you offer student discount on Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry tickets?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Portsmouth Cherbourg ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry booking.

Onboard the Portsmouth Cherbourg ferry 

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry with luggage

If you're getting the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

Brittany Ferries: they recommend a maximum of two pieces of luggage weighing 20kg per crossing 

What facilities are available on board ferries from Portsmouth to Cherbourg?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the England to Cherbourg ferry. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on the Portsmouth to Cherbourg boat differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin.   

Brittany Ferries: Inside and outside cabins are available on board along with a variety of seating options 

Is there reduced mobility access on the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Portsmouth to Cherbourg are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

Brittany Ferries: Wheelchair-accessible cabins are available on all ships, as well as disabled toilets

Taking the ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg 

How early do I need to arrive at Portsmouth port?  

We recommend arriving at Portsmouth port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry tickets?

Your Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?  

The latest check-in time for your ferry crossing to Cherbourg should be in your confirmation email.  

Brittany Ferries: 45 minutes before if you're travelling with a vehicle or on foot. 90 minutes before if you're travelling with a pet.

Is there parking at Portsmouth port?  

Yes, there both short and long-term parking are available at Portsmouth port.

How to get to Portsmouth port 

By train: you can get direct trains to Portsmouth from stations across the UK including London Waterloo, Brighton, Gatwick Airport and Southampton.

By coach: direct coaches are available from London Victoria.

By car: exit M27 at Junction 12 and take the M275 to Portsmouth. Follow signs to the port.

Useful information on your arrival to Cherbourg

Cherbourg port is located close to the town centre. It's easily walkable although buses and taxis are also available. In the town centre you'll also find Cherbourg train station which offers connections to many destinations across the country.

There are a range of amenities at the port, including a restaurant, parking, toilets and a passenger lounge.

If you're travelling by car, standard speed limits in France are as follows:

Main roads in urban areas: 50 km/h or 31mph
Main roads outside urban areas: 80-90km/h or 50-56mph
Dual carriageways: 110kph or 70 mph
Motorways: 130km/h or 80mph