Dunkirk Ferry

Dunkirk Guide

Dunkirk ferry port is one of the busiest in Europe, found just to the east of Calais in northern France. The nation’s third largest port, after Le Havre and Marseille, its territory actually covers 27 square miles across 10 towns and is primarily used for cargo transportation.

As the second most popular port for cross-channel passenger traffic, after Calais, getting the ferry to Dunkirk represents a more convenient and stress-free alternative, with only one ferry company, DFDS, operating the ferries from Dunkirk to Dover up to 12 times daily, since 2010, with an average sailing time of two hours.

Freight traffic continues to grow year on year, and with a vast network of canals and railways linking the docks to Belgium and the rest of France, it comes as no surprise Dunkirk is the country’s leading port for a variety of goods including coal, copper and containerised fruit.

Located just 10 kilometres from the Belgian border, the ferry crossing to Dunkirk can be used to explore France’s neighbouring countries easily. Once ashore, you are also in close proximity to the Netherlands and Germany, while Paris is approximately three hours away by car via the A1, and with a number of hotels near Dunkirk ferry port, you can relax and refresh before exploring northern Europe.

The Dunkirk ferry terminal facilities include a selection of restaurants and cafes, toilets and showers, vending machines for snacks and drinks, a children’s area with arcade games and an extensive range of disabled access. The passenger information desk is open 24 hours a day, while there is also free car parking available. Moreover, DFDS opened a brand new terminal in 2016, including modern check-in services and improved vehicle access onto the ships.

What to do in Dunkirk?

A humble city and commune with a population of roughly 90,000, Dunkirk became famous around the world in 1940 when allied troops were valiantly evacuated during the Second World War. While the majority of buildings were destroyed during this period, the best attractions include the Dunkirk 1940 Museum, the Port Museum with its historic ships and the modern art museum, LAAC.

Easily accessible from many locations, the Dunkirk ferry port address is Route du petit Denna, Port 5625, 59279 Loon Plage. Drivers from Lille should follow the A25 and then signs to Calais on the A16; from Belgium, leave the A16 on exit 53 (24) following signs to Port ‘Rapide/Car Ferry’; and from Saint Omer, the D600 takes you straight to the ferry terminal.