The Portsmouth to Le Havre ferry route is a historic and essential maritime link between the UK and France, offering a seamless connection across the English Channel. For years, this route has served as a vital passage for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, linking two iconic cities with rich maritime heritage.
Over the decades, this crossing has seen the passage of various vessels, from classic ferries to modern ships equipped with the latest amenities to ensure passenger comfort and safety. The history of this route is shaped by moments that have fostered strong ties between Portsmouth and Le Havre, two cities with deep historical and cultural significance.
Today, purchasing a Portsmouth to Le Havre ferry ticket offers more than just a journey—it’s an opportunity to take part in a centuries-old maritime tradition. This crossing, with its stunning seascapes and a blend of British and French cultures, offers an unforgettable experience.

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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.
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) |
Le Havre, located on the Normandy coast of France, is a dynamic and historic port city that serves as a key gateway for travellers heading to and from the UK. With regular ferry services to Portsmouth, Le Havre offers a convenient and efficient crossing across the English Channel. The port is well-equipped with modern facilities, including comfortable waiting areas, cafes, restrooms, and parking, ensuring a smooth experience for all passengers.
Le Havre itself is a city rich in history and culture, with a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre known for its post-World War II architecture. Visitors can explore the vibrant waterfront, the stunning André Malraux Museum of Modern Art, or relax along the scenic beaches. Le Havre is also a gateway to the picturesque Normandy region, with attractions like the D-Day landing beaches and the charming town of Honfleur nearby. Whether travelling for business or leisure, Le Havre is an ideal starting point for any adventure.


Positive: the staff were very helpful. It wasn’t too crowded. Negative: My car was not under cover so got spattered with sea spray and rain.There were no comfy seats unless I paid - although not expensive. On DFDS they are freely available. A 6h journey on the chairs available otherwise would have been horrendously uncomfortable. Because the comfy seats were at the front of the ship and it was a wall of windows, the sun made the room very hot and there was no climate control. The doors couldn’t be left open as that would allow in anybody - without paying. I had to keep leaving for short periods to cool down.
All it’s ok
Perfect!Everything was fine.