Taking the ferry with a car

Everything you need to know about travelling by ferry with a car from the UK to the Netherlands, such as check-in times, onboard parking, and customs rules.

Ferry to Holland by car: this is what you need to know

Exploring Holland by car

First, you need to reach Holland by ferry. This is straightforward: considering you are on this website, you are thinking about taking the overnight P&O Ferry from Hull to Rotterdam. You drive to the port terminal in Hull, where you check in with your booking reference and vehicle registration. After passport control, vehicles are guided on board by the crew and parked in designated lanes on the car deck. Once parked, you lock your car and take your belongings to the passenger decks for the overnight crossing.

P.S., be sure to turn your auto alarm off. Ferrygogo has the best guide on how to turn your auto alarm off on ferries.

On arrival in Rotterdam (Europoort), you return to your car after disembarkation announcements.

The drive off the vessel is usually smooth, and after customs control, you can directly access the Dutch motorway network from which you can drive to Rotterdam, The Hague, and Amsterdam.

It is, however, essential to note that this ferry arrival is not within walking distance of Rotterdam; you have to navigate your way out of the port, which is quite far away from the Rotterdam city centre.

The price you can expect for a ticket

Ticket prices for ferry crossings with a car depend on the season, cabin type, and how early you book. Below you’ll find an overview of average return prices for two adults travelling with a standard car:

Ticket type Car included Cabin type Season Estimated price (return)
Standard Saver Yes Inside cabin Low season £170 – £210
Standard Flexible Yes Inside cabin Low season £220 – £260
Standard Saver Yes Outside cabin High season £250 – £300
Standard Flexible Yes Outside cabin High season £300 – £360
Club Class Upgrade Yes Club cabin Any season +£60 – £100
Prices can vary depending on the day of travel and how far in advance you book. For the best overview of current ticket prices and package options, visit our pricing page.

Check-in policies for the ferry

Check-in with a car

  • Check-in and boarding times for vehicles
  • Check-in opens at about 15:00 (UK time) at Hull for the Hull → Rotterdam sailing. See the real-time departures on our timetable.
  • Check-in closes 90 minutes before departure for all passengers, including vehicles.

After you arrive at the terminal, you’ll be directed into the “vehicles with reservations” lane.

Rules and requirements

  • You must select the correct vehicle type when booking – for example, car, van, or motorhome.
  • When entering vehicle dimensions, please include any roof boxes, bikes mounted externally, caravans, etc.
  • For “standard car” classification, the operator uses thresholds such as under 6.0 m length for certain classes.
  • Driving in Europe: Your car must have specific equipment, including reflective jackets (one per occupant, stored in a readily accessible place), a warning triangle, beam deflectors (or the ability to adjust headlights), and a GB car sticker (if required).
  • No vehicle charging points currently on board for electric vehicles.
  • Restricted and prohibited items apply even when travelling in your vehicle. You must not carry dangerous/hazardous goods onboard unless booked via freight.
Boarding the ferry at the P&O terminal in Rotterdam
Entering the ferry at the P&O terminal

Quick navigation:

Complete your trip to the Netherlands!

After arriving by ferry at Europoort, many travellers take the opportunity to explore nearby destinations. Rotterdam is about 30 minutes away and offers museums, modern architecture, and harbourside areas to visit.

The Hague and Amsterdam are also within easy reach. Whether you plan a short stop or a full day out, there are plenty of places and activities close to the ferry terminal worth discovering. Check them out!  ➤

Destinations

Traveling further after arriving in Rotterdam? Discover useful travel guides to destinations such as Rotterdam, Amsterdam, or Germany.

Things to do near Rotterdam

Looking for something fun to do near the port? Discover attractions just 60 minutes' drive from the port of Rotterdam.

Accommodations

Haven’t booked your accommodations near Rotterdam yet? Check out our tips for a great stay.

Locations nearby the port of Rotterdam

Cool places to visit after you arrive
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