Planning a holiday or weekend getaway doesn’t mean you have to leave your furry friend behind. With P&O Ferries, travelling with pets is not only possible—it’s surprisingly easy and pet-friendly. Whether you’re crossing the Channel to France or heading to Ireland, P&O offers a range of options to ensure your pet travels safely and comfortably.
Here’s everything you need to know about travelling with pets on P&O Ferries.
Which Pets Can Travel?
P&O Ferries welcomes:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Ferrets
- Other small animals (with proper travel crates and documentation)
The pet policy may vary slightly depending on the route, so it’s always best to check specific details before you book.
Routes That Allow Pets
You can take your pets on board these key P&O routes:
- Dover to Calais
- Hull to Rotterdam
- Hull to Zeebrugge (when operational)
- Cairnryan to Larne
Each route offers different pet travel arrangements—some allow pets to remain in your vehicle, while others have onboard pet kennels or pet-friendly cabins.
1. Traveling by Car with Pets
On most routes, if you’re travelling with your car:
- Pets usually remain in the vehicle during the crossing.
- You’ll be advised to leave windows slightly open for ventilation.
- You’re responsible for securing your pet safely in the vehicle—consider a harness, crate, or pet seat belt.
Note: You won’t be allowed to visit your pet during the crossing on some routes for safety reasons, so make sure they’re comfortable and have water before departure.
2. Onboard Kennels and Pet Cabins
For longer crossings, such as Hull to Rotterdam, P&O offers kennels or pet-friendly cabins, which can be pre-booked:
- Kennels are located in a designated pet area with limited access.
- Pet-friendly cabins allow you to stay with your pet throughout the journey—perfect for anxious pets or overnight travel.
Both options require advance booking and may have limited availability, so plan early.
3. Foot Passengers with Pets
On most routes, pets cannot travel with foot passengers due to safety regulations. Exceptions may apply with proper pet carriers or if kennels are available—check with customer service for specific route rules.
4. Pet Passport & Documentation
If you’re travelling internationally, you’ll need to comply with pet travel regulations, including:
- A valid pet passport or Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
- Microchipping
- Rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel)
- Tapeworm treatment for dogs (on return to the UK from certain countries)
Always check the latest UK and EU pet travel rules well in advance of your trip.
5. Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Journey
- Exercise before boarding: Give your pet a chance to walk and use the toilet before the journey.
- Pack essentials: Include water, food, a blanket or toy, and waste bags.
- Avoid feeding right before sailing: Especially if your pet is prone to motion sickness.
- Stay calm: Pets pick up on your emotions—keep things relaxed during boarding.
What It Costs
Pet travel fees vary by route and pet accommodation type:
- From £15–£30 each way for pets in vehicles
- Higher for kennels or pet cabins (starting around £50+)
Check the P&O Ferries website for up-to-date pricing and availability.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. With P&O Ferries, you can take your beloved animal companion along for the adventure—whether it’s a holiday in France or a road trip through Ireland. With the right preparation and the right route, your next pet-friendly journey can be smooth sailing.
So pack the treats, grab the lead, and let your pet enjoy the trip too!