Taking the ferry is a popular and convenient way to travel between different points in the United Kingdom. There are many different types of ferries, and each offers its own set of amenities and features; here are 10 ultimate ferry travel tips for the UK that will help you make the most of your journey:
Pack Light
You don’t want to be weighed down with heavy luggage when you’re trying to enjoy your ferry ride, so pack light. Bring only the essentials and leave any unnecessary items at home; this will make it much easier to move around on the ferry and enjoy your journey.
You can always buy anything you forget once you’re at your destination, so there’s no need to overpack!
Purchase Your Ticket in Advance
Ferry tickets are often cheaper when you purchase them in advance, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead! You can usually buy tickets online or at the port, but you may get a better price if you buy them in advance.
If you’re unsure of your travel dates, consider buying a flexible ticket that you can use within a certain time frame – this will give you the flexibility to change your plans if necessary.
Arrive Early
It’s always a good idea to arrive at the port early, especially if you’re taking a popular ferry route! This will give you plenty of time to check in, find your boarding gate, and get settled on the ferry before it leaves.
If you’re running late, you may have to wait for the next ferry; therefore, it’s best to arrive early and avoid any potential delays.
Familiarize Yourself with The Ferry
Once you’re on board, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the ferry. Find out where the bathrooms are located, where you can get something to eat or drink, and where you’ll be sleeping.
It’s also a good idea to find out where the lifeboats are located in case of an emergency – there’s no need to panic; however, it’s always good to know where you can go in case of an emergency.
Be Prepared for Motion Sickness
If you’re susceptible to motion sickness, be sure to bring medication with you on the ferry. The waves can sometimes make the ferry ride a bit rough, so it’s important to be prepared if you start to feel sick.
There are also many different types of motion sickness medication available, so be sure to ask your doctor which one is right for you.
Stay Hydrated
It’s essential to stay hydrated when you’re on the ferry, especially if it’s a long journey; the air can sometimes be dry on the ferry, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
You can also bring along some snacks and fruits to keep your energy up. And if you start to feel a bit queasy, drinking ginger ale or eating ginger snaps can help settle your stomach.
Check The Weather
The weather can significantly impact your ferry ride, so it’s important to check the forecast before you set sail. If the weather is bad, it may delay your journey or even cause the ferry to cancel its trip altogether.
So, before heading to the port, check the weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly. You can find up-to-date weather information online or by listening to the local news.
Dress Comfortably
You’ll want to dress comfortably when you’re on the ferry, as you may be spending a lot of time in your cabin or walking around the deck. Be sure to wear loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes.
And if you’re traveling in the summer, be sure to pack some sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
Do Your Research
There are many different ferry operators in the UK; therefore, it’s essential to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs. Consider things like price, schedule, routes, and amenities when making your decision!
With so many options available, it’s important to take the time to find the perfect ferry for you, so you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free journey.
Have Fun
The most important thing to remember when you’re taking a ferry ride is to have fun. Relax and enjoy the journey – take in the scenery and meet new people!
And if you run into any problems, be sure to ask one of the ferry staff members for help. They’ll be happy to assist you and make sure you have a pleasant journey.
As you can see, there are many things to remember when taking a ferry ride. But if you follow these tips, you’re sure to have a safe and enjoyable journey.
How To Save Money on Your Ferry Travel
You can save money when taking a ferry in many different ways; you can save on your tickets, food, drinks, and more. Here are a few easy ways that you can start saving money today on your next ferry trip!
Save On Your Tickets
You can often find discounts on ferry tickets if you book in advance or during certain times of the year. If you’re flexible with your dates, try to book outside of peak times like summer and holidays.
You can also look for promotions and package deals that will save you money on your overall journey.
Bring Your Own Food and Drink
Ferry prices for food and drink can be pretty high; therefore, it’s worth bringing your own snacks and drinks from home.
Make sure you pack enough to last the journey, as you won’t be able to leave the ferry to buy more once you’re onboard! You can also take advantage of any complimentary tea and coffee that’s available.
Travel During the Shoulder Season
If you’re flexible with your travel dates, it’s worth considering traveling during the shoulder season. This is the period between the peak summer and low winter seasons, typically May to June and September to October. Prices are often lower during this time as there are fewer travelers, so it’s a great time to save.
Travel During the Week
If you can, it’s usually cheaper to travel during the week rather than at weekends. Many ferry companies offer discounts for mid-week travel, so this is definitely worth considering if you’re looking to save money.
You may also find that there are fewer travelers during the week, so you could have a more pleasant journey.
Take A Shorter Journey
If you have the option, take a shorter ferry journey, as these are usually cheaper than longer crossings. Ferry companies charge by the distance traveled, so the shorter the journey, the less you’ll pay.
You can also save money by breaking up your journey and taking a series of shorter ferries instead of one long crossing.
Use A Discount Card
If you’re a frequent traveler, it may be worth getting a discount card from your chosen ferry company. These cards entitle you to special deals and offers, as well as discounted or even free travel on certain routes.
Discount cards are usually available to both individuals and groups, so it’s worth checking to see if you’re eligible.
Go As a Foot Passenger
If you’re just traveling with hand luggage, you can often save money by booking a ticket as a foot passenger. This type of ticket is usually cheaper than a standard ticket – you don’t need to pay for a vehicle space!
You may also be able to find discounts on foot passenger tickets if you book in advance or during off-peak times.
Join A Rewards Scheme
Many ferry companies offer loyalty schemes that give you points every time you travel. These points can then be redeemed for future ferry journeys or other rewards. If you’re a regular traveler, joining a loyalty scheme is a great way to save money on your ferry travel.
Compare Prices Online
Before you book your ferry tickets, it’s always worth taking the time to compare prices from different companies. There can be significant differences in price between different operators, so it’s definitely worth doing some research.
You can use a price comparison website to easily compare prices from different companies, or you can do it yourself by checking the websites of each operator.
Consider An Alternative Route
If you’re flexible with your travel plans, it’s worth considering an alternative route as this could save you money.
For example, if you’re traveling to France, you could consider taking a ferry from Dover to Calais instead of the more popular route from Dover to Folkestone. This route is usually cheaper and can often be quicker, too; it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking to save money.
Saving money on your ferry travel doesn’t have to be complicated – just follow these simple tips, and you could make big savings on your next journey!
With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can easily find ways to save money on your ferry travel. So why not start today and see how much you could save?
