🚂 Eurotunnel vs. Ferry · Calais–Dover

Eurotunnel vs. Ferry –
Which Should You Choose?

Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) is faster – 35 minutes. The Calais–Dover ferry takes 90 minutes but is cheaper, more comfortable and has no height restriction for motorhomes.

35 minEurotunnel
90 minFerry Calais–Dover
£160–250Eurotunnel price
from £90Ferry price
⚡ Eurotunnel: fastest option⛴ Ferry: cheapest option🚐 Motorhome > 2.55m: ferry only🐕 Anxious dog: Eurotunnel recommended
🔍 Live prices
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Dep.Arr. Dover Dur.Vessel OperatorPrice/p Total

* Live prices. For 2 adults + 1 car. Prices may vary – confirm at booking.

Direct comparison

Eurotunnel vs. Ferry Calais–Dover

⛴ Ferry Calais–Dover

Journey time90–100 min
Price (2 adults + car)from £90–110 ✓
On boardRestaurant, bar, deck ✓
Motorhome > 2.55m✓ Allowed
Dog in carOn car deck (alone)

🚂 Eurotunnel Le Shuttle

Journey time35 min ✓
Price (car)£160–250 ✗
On boardStay in your car ✗
Motorhome > 2.55m✗ Not allowed
Dog in carWith you in car ✓

💡 Summary: The ferry is almost always cheaper and more comfortable. The Eurotunnel is worth it if time is critical – or if you're travelling with an anxious dog that shouldn't be left alone.

⚠ Eurotunnel: 2.55m height limit

Motorhomes, campervans and A-class motorhomes taller than 2.55m cannot use the Eurotunnel. The Calais–Dover ferry has no height restriction at all.

Stay overnight

Overnight in Calais before your crossing

Catching an early sailing or arriving late? A night in Calais takes the stress out of the crossing. The live map shows hotels & apartments near the ferry port and town centre – adjust your dates top right.

More tips & areas: Where to stay in Calais · * Booked via partner – commission at no extra cost to you.
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

The Eurotunnel is faster at 35 minutes. The Calais–Dover ferry takes 90–100 minutes. But the ferry offers restaurant, bar and open deck – the crossing becomes a pleasant break rather than sitting in your car.
Yes – in most cases. The Eurotunnel costs £160–250+ for a car (driver included). The Calais–Dover ferry starts from around £90 for 2 adults + car. The ferry is typically 40–60% cheaper than the Eurotunnel.
Only if your motorhome is under 2.55m high. Taller vehicles – most integrated motorhomes, A-class motorhomes – are not allowed. The ferry has no height restriction.
If your dog is anxious, the Eurotunnel is better – you stay in the car with your pet the whole time. On the ferry, dogs must stay alone in the vehicle on the car deck for 90 minutes. For relaxed dogs, the ferry saves significant money.
The Eurotunnel terminal is in Coquelles, near Calais (not the ferry port). The UK terminal is near Folkestone – about 15 minutes from Dover. It connects Calais to Folkestone, not Calais to Dover directly.

Current Eurotunnel fares in detail: see our Eurotunnel prices guide.

Book the Calais–Dover ferry instead

From £90 · 90 min · Restaurant, bar & open deck · All motorhome heights.

Book now → All crossings