DFDS are the only cross-Channel ferry operator to offer the Newhaven to Dieppe crossing. Direct to Normandy in the heart of northern France, the journey takes just four hours which several crossings per day.
Newhaven-Dieppe Normandy ferry
From May to September there are three sailings per day – morning, afternoon and evening, from Newhaven in east Sussex on the English coast. At other times there are two sailings per day. The ferries, Seven Sisters and Côte d’Albâtre have excellent onboard facilities: restaurant, shop and lounges with reclining seats, as well as private cabins.
Dieppe is a great location to start your journey in France as it’s so central. It’s just 3.5 hours to the heart of the Loire Valley or Rennes in Brittany by car, and 3 hours to Reims in Champagne. With excellent auto route and toll roads to the south, Bordeaux and Dordogne can be reached in a little under 7 hours.
Foot passenger service to Normandy from UK
And sailings aren’t just for vehicles – cyclists can take bikes. Plus you can travel as a foot passenger. It’s best to take the morning boat if you’re travelling this way to Dieppe if you plan to take public transport or a taxi on arrival. A shuttle bus operates between the passenger terminal and the town (a 10 to 15 minutes walk). If you’re arriving after 6pm and you need a taxi – book in advance to make sure you’re covered. The train station is in the centre of Dieppe, around 15 minutes walk from the port. Trains run across Normandy as well as to Paris, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, Montpellier and Rennes. From Dieppe, trains connect with other lines to cover the whole of France and Europe.
Whale spotting on the Dieppe-Newhaven route
For the past three years, from the end of March to September, DFDS have welcomed ORCA volunteers aboard their ferries. These Ocean Conservationists look after the animals that inhabit the North Sea and English Channel. One of their missions on board is to observe the different marine animals, like dolphins, whales and gannets. By listing the areas where these species live, volunteers can, in collaboration with the relevant authorities, take measures to protect them. They also give presentations and lead wildlife watching experiences for passengers on board!
Find out more and book your tickets at: dfds.com