Taking a motorhome on a ferry

Before payment

Declare the configuration that will reach the port

1. Measure actual height, length and width, and record the documented mass. Include air conditioning, aerials, roof boxes, bike racks, spare wheels, tow bars and every projection.
2. Declare a trailer or caravan, including its drawbar, separately. Do not estimate the combined length; use the categories required by the operator's form.
3. Declare every passenger, pet, accessibility need and the registered vehicle type. Commercial goods or exceptional length may require a freight booking.
4. Save the declared dimensions and confirmation. If a rack, box or trailer is added later, amend the booking before travel.

DFDS and Stena Line warn that an incorrect category can lead to extra charges or refused boarding when suitable space is unavailable.

Restricted item

Declare gas separately from vehicle dimensions

Record the number, type and capacity of cylinders or tanks, their purpose and installation. Verify the exact route's allowance, valve position, disconnection requirement and check-in declaration. Never carry one operator's or route's figures over to another.

Switch appliances off and complete the operator's instructions before entering the vehicle deck. LPG propulsion, portable cylinders and a fixed domestic-service system may be treated differently.

Work backwards

Plan around check-in closure, not departure

Take the closure time from the current ticket and exact terminal page; it varies by route and passenger type. Add margin for traffic, fuel, border and customs controls, pets and oversized-vehicle inspection. If delayed, contact the operator before check-in closes.

Keep the booking confirmation, passports, visas where required, vehicle papers, insurance, pet documents and gas details accessible rather than packed in an inaccessible locker.

Vehicle deck

Prepare before the boarding call

• Close windows and rooflights, isolate gas as instructed and secure loose items.
• Disable tilt or interior alarm sensors if the vehicle manual calls for it, while retaining the immobiliser.
• Take medicines, documents, clothing and everything needed during the crossing; vehicle-deck access may be prohibited.
• Follow crew signals on the ramp, keep clearance and do not change lane or position independently.