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The UK is a treasure trove of captivating travel experiences, where lush landscapes meld with ancient history and vibrant cities meet quaint villages. While exploring this enchanting isle, have you considered taking your little ones on a ferry trip? Whether you're crossing the English Channel or venturing to the scenic Isles of Scilly, travelling by ferry in the UK with kids can transform the journey into an exciting part of the adventure.
Imagine the thrill of the open sea breeze, spotting marine life, and teaching your children the art of navigating the waterways. With Openferry, you'll find all the insights and practical tips you need to create a ferry journey full of fun and minimal fuss.
Choosing The Right Route for Your Family
Now that your appetite for adventure has been whetted, let's talk logistics. Before you embark on your grand ferry adventure, selecting the correct route is key to a stress-free journey. The beauty of the UK's ferry network is the sheer variety of options available, each promising a unique experience.
For families seeking a quick trip to mainland Europe, the Dover-Calais route is a popular choice. It's a classic for a reason, with a swift crossing of about 90 minutes that’s perfect for little legs and short attention spans. Looking for something a bit closer to home? The journey from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight is a delightful jaunt. This quick trip offers stunning views of the Solent, and before you know it, you’ll be ready to explore the island's sandy beaches and charming villages.
Should the Emerald Isle be calling, the Holyhead to Dublin route is your ticket to a Celtic adventure. While a longer crossing of about three hours, it's a brilliant opportunity to embrace the journey, perhaps by enjoying a family meal or simply watching the waves roll by. For something truly special, why not consider a trip to a remote paradise? The crossing from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly on the Scillonian III is a spectacular experience in itself, offering breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline as you sail towards an idyllic archipelago.
Things to keep in mind when choosing
When making your final choice, it's wise to consider a few key factors. The duration of the crossing is often the most important – shorter routes may be more manageable for younger children. It's also worth checking the sailing frequency to ensure you have some flexibility in your schedule. Lastly, do keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially for longer journeys, to help everyone avoid the dreaded seasickness. A little preparation goes a long way towards a perfect trip.
Preparing for the Journey: What to Pack and Know
Now that you've mapped out your perfect route, it's time to think about the all-important preparation. A little foresight here will be your best ally in ensuring a smooth and happy sailing for the whole family.
First things first, let's discuss the essential items you'll want to have on hand. Perform a final check of your travel documents, especially if you’re travelling to Europe, to ensure all passports and tickets are in order. Onboard, a packed lunch can be a real game-changer. While ferries offer lovely cafes and restaurants, bringing along some familiar snacks and drinks can be a lifesaver, especially for staving off those unexpected moments of hunger-induced crankiness. And don't forget the entertainment. A few engaging activities, such as colouring books, a tablet preloaded with their favourite cartoons, or travel games, will work wonders in keeping little minds occupied and happy.
For comfort and safety, a few extra bits can make all the difference. The sea breeze on deck, while exhilarating, can be a little chilly, so be sure to pack some warm layers or even a little blanket. And, for peace of mind, if any of your children are prone to motion sickness, it’s always a good idea to consult your paediatrician about remedies or preventive measures before you travel.
Finally, take a moment to explore the onboard facilities on your chosen ferry. Many modern ferries offer dedicated family lounges with fantastic play areas, perfect for letting off steam. It's also worth checking if children’s meals are available. A menu with child-friendly options can help to keep mealtimes happy and hassle-free, allowing you to relax and truly begin your holiday the moment you step on board.
Check out our easy-to-use ferry packing list below.
Boarding the Ferry: Navigating the Start of Your Adventure
With your packing list ticked off and your essentials ready to go, the next exciting step is arriving at the port and boarding the ferry. Getting this part right sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable journey, so here’s how to make your arrival as smooth as possible.
For a completely stress-free start, our top tip is to arrive early. Aiming to arrive at the port at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time gives you plenty of time for check-in and security clearance. It means you can avoid any last-minute rushes and instead, enjoy the building anticipation of your trip. Don't forget to ask about priority boarding. Many ferry companies offer this brilliant perk for families, ensuring you can get on board a little earlier and snag the perfect spot to get everyone settled in before the main rush.
If you're travelling with your vehicle, there are a couple of extra points to keep in mind. Once you've parked up on the ferry's car deck, it’s safety first. Ensure your car is secured correctly and take a moment to remind the little ones to be extra careful when moving between the vehicle and the passenger areas. It’s also crucial to remember that you won't be able to access your car during the journey, so be sure to have a separate bag with all your onboard luggage essentials to hand. This way, you won't be without snacks, entertainment, or a warm layer should the sea breeze beckon.
Onboard Experience: Making the Most of the Voyage
Once you’ve successfully boarded, the real adventure begins. The ferry itself is a world of discovery waiting to be explored, and with a bit of planning, you can make this part of the journey truly memorable.
First, take a moment to enjoy exploring the ferry together. A quick, lighthearted safety talk with your little ones about basic rules and behaviour will give you peace of mind. Then, it's time for some fun. Head to the deck for a spot of nature spotting. Encourage the kids to look out for passing ships, distant lighthouses, or even some marine life. Spotting a pod of dolphins or a flock of seabirds can be an inspiring moment for everyone.
When it comes to entertainment and relaxation, ferries have got you covered. Check out the schedule for onboard activities – many have dedicated kids' areas, and some even feature entertainers during peak holiday times. For a more peaceful moment, seek out quiet corners where you can relax with a book or let a sleepy child have a nap. A pair of headphones can be a lifesaver if you're seeking a moment of calm.
Finally, don't forget about dining onboard. To avoid the queues, consider eating at off-peak times. If you have any picky eaters in the family, bringing a familiar meal can be a wise move. However, it's also worth checking if the ferry offers local specialities. It’s a fantastic way to get a little taste of your destination before you've even arrived.
Arriving at Your Destination: Smooth Landing
After a fantastic voyage across the waves, the moment has arrived. The coastline of your destination is in sight, and it’s time to prepare for a smooth landing. A bit of forward thinking now will ensure your holiday begins the moment you step off the ferry.
The disembarkation process can be slightly slower than boarding, so patience is essential. Use this time as a lovely opportunity to recap the journey with your little ones. Ask them what their favourite part was – was it spotting a ship on the horizon or a tasty treat from the cafe? As you gather your things, do one final, thorough check to ensure all your belongings are with you, especially those little treasures, such as a favourite toy or blanket.
Once on dry land, you'll be ready to continue your journey. It’s a great idea to familiarise yourself with local transport options in advance. Whether you're catching a bus, a train, or picking up a hire car, knowing the lay of the land will save you precious time. If you’re feeling a bit weary, booking a taxi or a shuttle ahead of time can be a brilliant way to take the stress out of the final leg. And for your first stops, remember that children might need a moment to get their land legs back after the voyage. Planning a low-key, easy activity, such as finding a local park or enjoying a quiet café, is an excellent way to ease into your new adventure.
Ferry Packing List for the Family
To make your ferry trip with the kids as easy as a gentle sea breeze, here's a handy checklist to ensure you've got everything covered.
Essential Items
- Travel Documents: Passports (if travelling to or from Europe), tickets, and any booking confirmations.
- Snacks and Drinks: Your children's favourites to keep everyone happy and hydrated.
- Entertainment: Colouring books and pencils, a tablet with preloaded films or games, and a few small travel games.
Onboard Comfort & Safety
- Warm Layers: Jackets, hoodies, or blankets for staying cosy on deck.
- Medicines: Any regular medication, plus remedies for motion sickness if needed.
- Hand Sanitiser and Wipes: Always useful for quick clean-ups.
Just for Fun
- Binoculars: Perfect for spotting other ships, distant land, or even dolphins.
- Camera: To capture those priceless moments of your family's sea adventure.
- Headphones: for both children’s entertainment and when parents want a moment to themselves.
Your Family Adventure Awaits!
And there you have it. A family ferry trip isn't just about getting from A to B – it's a fantastic, memory-making part of your holiday. With a bit of preparation and a sense of adventure, you can turn the journey into a highlight of your trip, complete with fresh sea air, wildlife spotting, and happy little faces.
So, are you ready to set sail on your next family adventure? Whether it's a quick hop across the Solent or a more extended voyage to Ireland, Openferry is here to help you find the perfect route. We've gathered all the insights and tips you need to make your journey plain sailing.
All that's left for you to do is pack those bags, get ready for an adventure, and book your ferry tickets with Openferry today!
