Dover
Check SailLink's departure instructions carefully because its small-vessel operation does not use the same boarding process as the large vehicle-ferry terminals.
United Kingdom → France
Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer Ferry
Plan the crossing from Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer, with departure-port details, SailLink and onward travel after arrival.
Passenger & bicycle routeCross-Channel sailingCheck current dated departures
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Search available crossings by date, passenger and vehicle. If this local route is absent from the search, use the official operator link above.
Check your ports, passengers, vehicle and dates before completing the reservation.
Route guide
Dover to Boulogne by sail-powered passenger ferry
SailLink has continued its Dover–Boulogne-sur-Mer passenger service during the 2026 season after launching the connection in 2025. The operation is very different from conventional vehicle ferries: capacity is limited, the crossing is aimed at foot passengers and cyclists, and timings depend more heavily on sailing conditions.
Check the dated SailLink schedule before arranging rail connections, accommodation or onward cycling. Allow extra flexibility because a small sailing vessel can be more weather-sensitive than large cross-Channel ferries.
Boulogne-sur-Mer gives passengers direct access to the Opal Coast, while Dover connects with rail and road links across Kent and London.
Travelling the other way? Read the Boulogne-sur-Mer to Dover ferry guide.
Ferry operator
SailLink
SailLink specialises in low-impact cross-Channel passenger crossings under sail. Check its own schedule for the exact departure dates, luggage/bicycle arrangements and weather-related updates.
Ports
Dover and Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a central Opal Coast destination with rail and road links towards Calais, Lille and other parts of northern France.
Before travelling
Plan for a small-vessel crossing
Travel light
Space is limited compared with conventional ferries, so check the operator's baggage and bicycle guidance.
Allow flexibility
Weather and sea conditions can affect sail-powered departures more than large ferry services.
Check documents
This is an international UK–France crossing, so carry the travel documents required for your journey.
Planning questions
Dover–Boulogne ferry FAQs
Is Dover–Boulogne operating in 2026?
Yes. SailLink has continued its Dover–Boulogne passenger sailings during the 2026 season. Check the operator for dated availability because departures are limited.
Can I take a car?
No. SailLink's service is designed for passengers and bicycles rather than cars or motorhomes.
Was Shoreham–Fécamp added as a regular route?
No. The September 2026 Shoreham–Fécamp operation was a short pilot, so FerryEU does not list it as a normal year-round route.
Travelling in the other direction?
Boulogne-sur-Mer to Dover ferry guide covers the opposite departure port, arrival arrangements and onward connections.
Departing from Dover
Use the terminal or pier named on your SailLink confirmation. The published departure is the sailing time; check-in and vehicle acceptance close earlier. If reaching Dover by train or bus, allow for the transfer from the station to the harbour and for luggage handling.
Arriving in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Start your onward itinerary at the actual landing point in Boulogne-sur-Mer. Leave time to unload before a timed collection, train or island bus. If the ferry arrives late in the day, check the final public-transport departure or arrange a transfer in advance.
Leaving Britain for Europe
Check the entry requirements for France before booking. For British passport holders visiting Schengen countries, passport issue and expiry dates and the 90-in-180-day short-stay limit are separate checks. Allow extra time for border formalities, and use the carrier’s latest arrival advice. A ferry reservation does not by itself give permission to enter.
Planning the wider journey in France
Channel arrivals suit different parts of France: Calais and Dunkirk for the north and east, Dieppe for Normandy approaches, and Caen, Cherbourg, St Malo or Roscoff for journeys farther west. Check the motorway and toll itinerary after landing.
Passengers, vehicles and the fare
Select the correct passenger category before comparing Dover to Boulogne-sur-Mer fares. A passenger-only boat cannot take a car, and a vehicle ferry may still have limited bicycle or foot-passenger availability. The travel modes shown in the facts panel should be checked against the specific sailing.
For a vehicle booking, give the full height and length including a roof box, rear rack or trailer. Where accommodation is offered, check whether a cabin or seat is required and whether meals are included. Request mobility assistance and any pet space before completing the booking, because these can have separate capacity limits.
Prices depend on the date, passenger mix, vehicle and ticket conditions. Compare the complete return cost and the amendment or cancellation terms. No fixed fare on this guide should replace a dated quote.
Car and motorhome planning · Travelling without a car · Taking a pet
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