Portsmouth Ferry Port Information
Portsmouth Port, located on the south coast of England, is a major gateway for passengers travelling to France and the Channel Islands. With regular ferry services to destinations like Caen, St. Malo, and Le Havre, it offers a convenient and reliable option for both leisure and business travellers.
The port is equipped with modern amenities, including comfortable waiting areas, cafes, restrooms, and parking facilities, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience before departure.
Portsmouth itself is a historic maritime city with a wealth of attractions, including the iconic HMS Victory, the Mary Rose Museum, and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. The port’s location also offers easy access to the vibrant city centre, where visitors can explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. With excellent transport links, including direct train connections to London, Portsmouth Port is an ideal starting point for exploring the South of England or venturing across the Channel to France and beyond.
Is there a Portsmouth to France Ferry?
Yes, there are 4 routes from Portsmouth to France, which are all operated by Brittany Ferries. Here is a summary of the ferry timetable for the passenger ferry:
| Route | Operator | Approx Duration | Frequency / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portsmouth → Caen (Ouistreham), Normandy | Brittany Ferries | 5h45 – 7h00 (day) / 7h00 (overnight) | Up to 3 sailings per day (~20 per week), all year |
| Portsmouth → Cherbourg | Brittany Ferries | ~8h (overnight) / ~5h30 (high-speed in summer) | Up to 5 sailings per week, more in summer |
| Portsmouth → St Malo | Brittany Ferries | ~11h (overnight) / ~9h (daytime) | Up to 7 sailings per week |
| Portsmouth → Le Havre | Brittany Ferries | ~5h30 | 1 sailing per day (limited passenger availability) |
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Popular Ferry Companies for Portsmouth
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Departure Board for Portsmouth
Friday, September 25, 2026
Routes To And From Portsmouth
Frequently Asked Questions About Portsmouth
Frequently Asked Questions About Portsmouth
These are the most commonly asked questions. Can't find what you're looking for? No worries, get in touch and we'll be more than happy to assist with your enquiry.
Is there a Portsmouth to France Ferry?
Is there a Portsmouth to France Ferry?
Yes, there are 4 routes from Portsmouth to France, which are all operated by Brittany Ferries. Here is a summary of the ferry timetable for the passenger ferry:
| Route | Operator | Approx Duration | Frequency / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portsmouth → Caen (Ouistreham), Normandy | Brittany Ferries | 5h45 – 7h00 (day) / 7h00 (overnight) | Up to 3 sailings per day (~20 per week), all year |
| Portsmouth → Cherbourg | Brittany Ferries | ~8h (overnight) / ~5h30 (high-speed in summer) | Up to 5 sailings per week, more in summer |
| Portsmouth → St Malo | Brittany Ferries | ~11h (overnight) / ~9h (daytime) | Up to 7 sailings per week |
| Portsmouth → Le Havre | Brittany Ferries | ~5h30 | 1 sailing per day (limited passenger availability) |
What are the check-in times for Wightlink ferries from Fishbourne to Portsmouth and Portsmouth to Fishbourne?
What are the check-in times for DFDS ferries from St Helier to Portsmouth and Portsmouth to St Helier?
What are the check-in times for Wightlink ferries from Portsmouth to Ryde and Ryde to Portsmouth?
What are the check-in times for Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth?
Port Terminals For Portsmouth
Passenger Terminal
Portsmouth International Port Foot passengers: Proceed to the passenger terminal to complete check-in formalities. Vehicles: Follow signs to the vehicle check-in lanes, present your booking confirmation and valid identification, and after check-in, you’ll be directed to the appropriate lane for boarding.
Modes of Transport: Foot passenger, Bicycle, Standard Car, Motorcycle, Van (passenger)
FastCat Passenger Ferry Terminal
Portsmouth Harbour Station Foot passenger only services to Ryde, Isle of Wight. Present your booking reference at the designated check-in area.
Modes of Transport: Foot passenger, Bicycle
Car Ferry Terminal (Vehicle And Foot Passenger Travel)
Portsmouth Car Ferry Terminal Foot passengers: Present your booking reference at the designated foot passenger check-in area. Vehicles: Upon arrival, staff will direct you to the appropriate lane for boarding.
Modes of Transport: Foot passenger, Bicycle, Van (passenger), Standard Car, Motorcycle
Portsmouth Ships
Reviews for Portsmouth
Reviews for Portsmouth
Ferry loaded and departed on…
Ferry loaded and departed on time and arrived on time. Good quality and reasonably priced food and friendly staff.
Not Brittany Ferries fault but passport control by UK Border Force meant an hours queue which marred the experience. Passport checking by Border Force on Departure port like at Dover/Calais would be much better.
Very enjoyable crossing to Caen.
Very enjoyable crossing to Caen.
Ship spotlessly clean
Ship spotlessly clean