Travelling with pets from Hull to Rotterdam
Planning to sail from Hull to Rotterdam with your pet? Here’s everything you need to know to make the overnight crossing smooth and stress-free for you and your furry companion.
Bringing pets on board
When you travel, bringing your pet along is often part of the plan. On the overnight crossing from King George Dock (Hull) to Europoort (rotterdam) with P&O Ferries, pets are permitted under specific arrangements.
Pets are defined as dogs, cats and ferrets. Any other animals may require additional arrangements; you should contact P&O Ferries directly for guidance.
All pets must meet customs and veterinary requirements (see below) before boarding.
On-board facilities and travel options
Because the Hull–Rotterdam crossing is an overnight journey, the pet travel options differ from shorter routes. You can choose between the following:
Kennels on board
Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be booked into air-conditioned kennels located on Deck 7 for the duration of the voyage. You may visit your pet during the sailing at designated times, accompanied by a crew member.
Dog-friendly cabins (dogs only)
If you’re travelling with a dog, you can book a dog-friendly cabin situated near the kennels and outdoor pet area. Dogs are allowed inside these cabins but not in shared passenger spaces such as restaurants or lounges.
Customs and veterinary requirements
When travelling from the UK to the Netherlands, specific rules apply for pets such as dogs, cats and ferrets.
Microchip – Your pet must be microchipped before travel. The chip must be readable and linked to your pet’s identification documents.
Rabies vaccination – Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies after being microchipped. Travel is only permitted at least 21 days after the date of vaccination.
Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or EU Pet Passport – Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, an Animal Health Certificate is required when travelling from the UK to the EU. If you are travelling from an EU country or Northern Ireland, an EU Pet Passport is sufficient.
There is currently no tapeworm treatment requirement for dogs entering the Netherlands from the UK.
Assistance dogs and emotional support animals
Registered assistance dogs, such as guide or service dogs, are permitted in passenger areas and can accompany their owners throughout the ferry trip.
Banned breeds
Some dog breeds are restricted or banned under Dutch regulations. Passengers travelling with such breeds may be refused boarding or asked to provide special documentation. Always verify with your vet and P&O Ferries before travelling.
Quick navigation:
Before you travel: Pets Checklist
- Ensure microchip and rabies vaccination are up-to-date and recorded in the AHC or passport.
- Obtain the Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from your vet shortly before travel.
- Book the kennel or dog-friendly cabin and confirm with P&O Ferries.
- Bring absorbent pads and pet waste bags.
- On the day of departure, keep the identification and documentation ready for check-in.
Locations nearby the port of Rotterdam
