Travel by ferry and take your best four legged friend with you

Britons have been warned of huge price hikes for European summer holidays this year. According to consumer group Which? the price of a holiday has gone up by an average of more than 19% compared to the same time in 2022.

The ONS reported that the cost of airfares rose by 44% last year, the largest rise since records began in 1989.

The rising price of flights, accommodation and car hire is seriously impacting the decision as to whether a holiday is affordable. And with over a third of UK households reported to be dog owners, this cost further increases as kennels and dog sitters have upped their charges to reflect the ongoing economic situation.

Depending on where you live in the UK, PetKeen reports that dog boarding costs can be as high as £60 per day, while pet sitters can charge from £30 to £70 for an overnight stay in your home. That means to be away for one week can cost up to £500 on top of the already extortionate holiday costs – without accounting for the price of the extra dog walks needed and – if you have a pet sitter – the additional energy usage.

So, as a dog owner, what is the cheapest and easiest way to travel overseas and still enjoy a much needed break? Travel by ferry and take your best four legged friend with you! Ferry travel is cost effective, sustainable and you can be the master of your own journey, in your own time. Direct Ferries, the world’s largest ferry ticket booking site has reported a surge in searches for travelling with dogs, particularly post pandemic as pet ownership massively increased.

Niall Walsh, CEO at Direct Ferries said: We have noted a marked increase in people travelling with their pets. Pet bookings with Direct Ferries are up 61% compared to the same time in 2019 and we predict this trend to continue. Pets are after all, one of the family, and experts have advised that dogs can benefit from a holiday too. With the rising cost of living adding to pet owners’ everyday pressures, taking their four legged companions on holiday is not only cost effective but makes for an unforgettable no fly holiday experience.”

Do Plan Ahead

Most ferries companies allow you to bring your pets with you for a small fee – usually between £15 – £30 in Europe and you can enter your pet’s details when searching for ferry tickets. It is imperative however that your pet complies with the regulations and requirements of each country/territory that you are travelling to or from, which you are responsible for. All journeys require your pet to be part of the ‘Pet Passport’ scheme.

If you are travelling to an EU country from the UK, a new animal health certificate or valid pet passport must be obtained that is accepted in the country you are travelling to each time you travel. This must be done by your vet 10 days before you travel. Dogs must be microchipped and have up to date vaccinations, including Rabies. If Rabies needs to be administered, it must be given 21 days before your vet can issue a certificate and then you must wait 10 days before departure. On your return, before entering the UK a vet must treat your dog for tapeworm and record it in the pet passport or health certificate. The treatment must have been given no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you enter the UK. Your dog can be refused entry or put into quarantine if you do not follow this rule. All necessary information can be found here.

Sleeping Arrangements? 

Where your pet will stay during the crossing depends on the length and the type of crossing.

As more pets are travelling with owners, many ferry operators are responding. In 2022 P&O launched its Pet Lounge for owners and and their dogs can relax and enjoy comfort, space and complimentary refreshments on board together with TVs and charging points, as well as a dedicated exercise area on the outside deck for some fresh air and stretching.

Brittany Ferries, DFDS and Stena Line also offer pet-friendly cabins (where your pet can stay with you during the sailing) and onboard kennels on select crossings. Pet friendly cabins are very popular, so it is advisable to book as much ahead in advance as possible.

Woof Woof! We’re in. What next? 

Simple! Visit directferries.co.uk and start your canine crossing by selecting your destination, dates, number of people, and pets ( including cats, dogs and guide dogs) travelling and type of vehicle.

Current discounts, offers and incentives from Direct Ferries can be  viewed here.