- Must visit
Cité de la dentelle et de la mode de Calais
Major lace and fashion museum in a converted factory, explaining Calais's textile heritage through machinery, dress and design displays.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Margate to Calais
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Sept
Cheapest price on 13 Sept
£26
Average ticket price on 13 Sept
£28
Fastest journey on 13 Sept
1 h 30 m
Average journey duration on 13 Sept
1 h 48 m
Ferries on 13 Sept
9
Distance
57 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Margate to Calais is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Margate to Calais will cost around £28 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap ferry tickets today for only £26.
Fast ferries
On Sun 13 Sept, we found 9 ferries from Margate to Calais, including 9 direct services.
On Sun 13 Sept the direct ferries cover the 57 km distance in an average of 1 h 48 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 1 h 30 m .
The slowest ferries will take 2 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
DFDS Seaways12:002h00Port of Dover15:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes- DFDS Seaways22:002h00Port of Dover1:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
- DFDS Seaways8:002h00Port of Dover11:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
- DFDS Seaways18:002h00Port of Dover21:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
- DFDS Seaways20:002h00Port of Dover23:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
P&O Ferries16:401h30Port of Dover19:10DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal£341One-way0 changes- P&O Ferries9:451h30Port of Dover12:15DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal£341One-way0 changes
- DFDS Seaways12:002h00Port of Dover15:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
- DFDS Seaways22:002h00Port of Dover1:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
- DFDS Seaways8:002h00Port of Dover11:00Port of Dunkirk£261One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and ferry for Margate to Calais
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Margate to Calais among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the ferry, with an average ticket price of £28 For those with little time, consider booking a ferry, which has an average total journey time of 2h 30m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £196.
Distance: 30 nautical miles (57 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£28 Average Price Cheapest | £196 Average Price | £8 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 9h 3m Average total duration 8h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Margate to Calais is a ferry with an average price of £28.
This is compared to other travel options from Margate to Calais:
A ferry is £168 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Margate to Calais costing on average £196.
The fastest way to travel from Margate to Calais is by ferry with an average journey time of 1h 30m.
Other travel options to Calais take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Margate and Calais including taking a train and ferry.
Margate to Calais Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:30 | Arrival Time 13:00 | Duration 1h30 | Sailing Days Tue, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 15:40 | Arrival Time 17:10 | Duration 1h30 | Sailing Days Wed, Fri |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 14:00 | Arrival Time 17:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 16:00 | Arrival Time 19:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 16:40 | Arrival Time 18:10 | Duration 1h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 18:00 | Arrival Time 21:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 09:40 | Arrival Time 11:20 | Duration 1h40 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 10:00 | Arrival Time 13:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 12:00 | Arrival Time 15:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 09:45 | Arrival Time 12:15 | Duration 1h30 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 06:00 | Arrival Time 09:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 20:00 | Arrival Time 23:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 02:30 | Arrival Time 04:00 | Duration 1h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Fri |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 01:20 | Arrival Time 03:00 | Duration 1h40 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 08:00 | Arrival Time 11:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 22:00 | Arrival Time 01:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator Norfolk Line | Departure Time 23:35 | Arrival Time 01:15 | Duration 1h40 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 22:55 | Arrival Time 00:25 | Duration 1h30 | Sailing Days Thu |
Live departures
Margate to Calais ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Margate to Calais ferries for today, Saturday 12 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DFDS Seaways | 22:00 Port of Dover | 2h00 | 1:00 Port of Dunkirk | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 13 September | |||||
| DFDS Seaways | 8:00 Port of Dover | 2h00 | 11:00 Port of Dunkirk | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Ferries | 9:45 Port of Dover | 1h30 | 12:15 DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal | 0 changesdirect | |
| DFDS Seaways | 12:00 Port of Dover | 2h00 | 15:00 Port of Dunkirk | 0 changesdirect | |
| DFDS Seaways | 14:00 Port of Dover | 2h00 | 17:00 Port of Dunkirk | 0 changesdirect | |
| DFDS Seaways | 16:00 Port of Dover | 2h00 | 19:00 Port of Dunkirk | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Ferries | 16:40 Port of Dover | 1h30 | 19:10 DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal | 0 changesdirect | |
| DFDS Seaways | 18:00 Port of Dover | 2h00 | 21:00 Port of Dunkirk | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Margate to Calais by train or ferry
Compare train and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
13 Sept
13 Sept
Mon
14 Sept
14 Sept
Tue
15 Sept
15 Sept
Wed
16 Sept
16 Sept
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Margate to Calais
United Kingdom
France
Ferries from Margate to Calais run on average 24 times per day, taking around 1h 30m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at £26 if you book in advance.
There are 24 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest ferry covers the 30 nautical miles (57 km) distance in 1h 30m. There are 87 sailings per week.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 30 nautical miles (57 km) |
Average sailing duration 1h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £26 |
Ferries per day 24 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 87 |
Fastest ferry 1h 30m |
First ferry 0:10 |
Last ferry 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Ferry operators: P&O Ferries from Margate to CalaisYou can travel by ferry between Margate to Calais with P&O Ferries for as low as £26. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
P&O Ferries
About
P&O Ferries is a British shipping company, established in 2002 through mergers and acquisitions within P&O, and owned by Dubai-based DP World since 2019. It operates passenger and freight ferry services across the English Channel, North Sea, and Irish Sea. Key routes include Dover to Calais, Hull to Rotterdam, and Cairnryan to Larne. P&O Ferries offers a range of onboard facilities such as restaurants, bars, entertainment, and duty-free shopping. They also provide various ticket options and deals, including short breaks and offers for families.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average P&O Ferries Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest P&O Ferries Price
£28
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Multiple restaurants, cafes, and bars available onboard
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair access available on most ships. Accessible cabins available on some routes. Assistance available for boarding and disembarking.
Pets
Dogs and cats allowed in pet-friendly cabins or kennels. Must be kept on leash in designated areas.
Cabin reservation
Available on most routes, must be booked in advance
Car on board
Complete guide to Calais
Things to do in Calais
Discover the best of Calais — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Calais trip today.
- Recommended
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Calais
Fine arts museum with works on Rodin, local history and temporary exhibitions, set near the town hall in central Calais.
- Recommended
Musée Mémoire 39-45
Second World War museum inside a former German naval bunker, presenting occupied Calais through objects, documents and immersive spaces.
- Must visit
Front de Mer de Calais
Long seafront promenade and beach area for walking, sea views and sunsets, popular with visitors and locals in all seasons.
- Recommended
Place d'Armes
Central square lined with historic buildings and cafés, close to the watchtower and old quarter, with a lively local atmosphere.
- Recommended
Parc Saint-Pierre
Landscaped park around the town hall and museum quarter, good for a short walk and close views of major civic landmarks.
Soupe de poissons
A hearty fish soup from the Opal Coast, made with local fish and served with rouille and bread. A classic northern seaside speciality.
- Gluten-free
Moules marinières
Fresh mussels cooked with white wine, cream, garlic or shallots. Widely eaten in coastal Pas-de-Calais and closely tied to local brasseries.
- Gluten-free
Waterzooï de poisson
A rich fish stew from nearby Boulogne-sur-Mer, made with several fish, potatoes and aromatic broth. A signature dish of the wider Côte d’Opale.
Histoire Ancienne
Refined dining room near the seafront with contemporary French cooking, attentive service and a calmer atmosphere.
Au Côte d'Argent
Established seafood restaurant by the port, known for fish, shellfish and a relaxed maritime setting.
La Tourello
Casual crêperie and cider spot offering savoury galettes and sweet crêpes, well suited to an easy meal in town.
Euro (€)
Calais is moderate by French standards, with fairly priced meals and local transport, while hotels can rise in peak ferry and summer periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €55+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for very good restaurant service. Taxis may be rounded up; cafés often just keep the small change.
Calais Connect'
Official public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city centre
Port of Calais, Calais -> Calais-Ville station, Calais
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- The Port of Calais runs a free Baladin shuttle between the ferry terminal, town centre and Calais-Ville station, Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 19:00.
- If you arrive as a foot passenger, the port states that taxis and free shuttles are available to and from the port.
FAQs: Margate to Calais ferries
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Margate to Calais by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Calais, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Margate to Calais can start from as little as £26 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Margate to Calais is £28; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by ferry from Margate to Calais is 1h 30m to travel the 57 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest ferry from Margate to Calais leaves at 0:10. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Margate to Calais leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 24 direct ferries a day from Margate to Calais with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Margate to Calais.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Margate to Calais.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Margate to Calais is possible with . We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses, and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Margate to Calais, you can count on P&O Ferries for the best way to get you to Calais. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Margate and Calais and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A day trip to Calais from Margate is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Margate to Calais is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Margate and Calais including taking a train and ferry.
popular ferry ports
Important Stations and Airports in Margate and Calais
Most Margate to Calais ferries use the Port of Dover to Port of Calais port pair, with some services arriving at Port of Dunkirk. Use this guide to compare Margate and Calais ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Margate
Arrival ports in Calais
Which Calais port do ferries from Margate arrive at?
Ferries from Margate to Calais most often arrive at Port of Calais. Some services arrive at Port of Dunkirk, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Calais arrival port.
Port of CalaisUnnamed Road, 62100 Calais, France
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Calais from Calais city centre
Port of Calais is 1 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
BusB · 5m · every ~6 min
Port of Calais port facilities and services
Port of Calais has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Au Vieux Fourneau (0.7km), Le Channel (0.8km), L'Hovercraft (0.9km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Port of Calais.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Calais: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Port of Calais.
DFDS Calais Ferry TerminalEst, Terminal Car Ferry, Gare Maritime, 62100 Calais, France
City-centre transport
Getting to DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal from Calais city centre
DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal is 2 km from Calais city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal port facilities and services
DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack bars and restaurants on-site.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at DFDS Calais Ferry Terminal: Facilities accessible for disabled persons.
Most popular ferries to and from Calais and Margate
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