Tip 1 – Speed up check-in by downloading the apps
So, our first tip is actually a bit of a new development in the cross-Channel ferry world.
Both P&O and DFDS have launched apps that allow users to submit passenger info before arriving at port, speeding up check-in massively.
And when you’ve got a coach-load of kids to get checked in (and, sometimes, more than one coach), this is a real godsend.
They also now require coach groups to do this, because it’s so effective at speeding up the check-in process. If you’re travelling with us, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on what to do before you travel.
Available wherever you get your apps
Both apps have Android and iPhone options which you can download from the relevant app store. Both will require you to submit passenger info and scan each passenger’s passport (including the driver's).
Do it on your way down to Dover
Although both will allow you to do this gradually, in our experience it’s just easier to do it on your way down to the port. That way, you have the correct vehicle reg number (which you’ll need), you’ll have the driver’s info (which you’ll need) and you’ll know exactly who’s travelling (because if you have any last-minute dropouts, you shouldn’t include their info).
Just remember, you’ll need to do it for both the outbound and inbound crossing.
Don’t stress about any errors
It’s really important to note that once you submit all the passenger info, that'll get transferred to the port authority and you can't then change any of it.
But, if you have any issues with the app (e.g. a passport won’t scan, or the app isn’t working for any reason), don’t stress. You can provide any missing info to the agents at port check-in.
Equally, if you realise you’ve made a mistake at any point in the process, you must let the agent know at check-in and they’ll get it changed for you (otherwise, it could cause problems on entry/exit the other side).
Spread the load
You can use multiple devices to upload this info, so if you do have a large group (or a shorter journey to Dover), you can definitely rope in your colleagues to help you with this.
And if you’ve broken down your group into smaller groups with a member of staff in charge of each, you could ask each of them to do this task for their group. You’ll just need to register each device – but again, if you’re travelling with us, we’ll provide you with all the details before you go.
It’s secure
When you submit your passenger info it’s sent securely from the ferry company to border security – other users can’t access your data.
Tip 2 – Pack some extra water and snacks
So, in general, check-in is now much quicker thanks to the introduction of these new apps.
However, on peak travel dates, Dover’s still bound to get extremely busy.
And this can be compounded when those dates coincide with bad weather (which we’ve had to contend with a few times, particularly around Feb half term).
So, we’d really recommend that you pack some extra bottles of water and maybe even some snacks, just in case of any delays.
Once you get on the ferry, there will be plenty of shops and restaurants for your group to refuel in (but, trust us, there’s nothing worse than being stuck on a coach with a bunch of hungry teenagers – so always better to be safe than sorry).
Tip 3 – Avoid these costly errors
There are a couple of things that you should make your group aware of when it comes to travelling on cross-Channel ferries.
Check which currency is used on board
Firstly, check what currency is the primary currency used on board (it’s usually the currency of the country the ferry company is based in). You can normally pay in the other currency, but the exchange rate can be pretty horrible, so just be aware of this.
Some of the newer ships only accept card payments too.
Put your phone on aeroplane mode
The other thing to mention is using your phone on board. Our top tip is to get on the WiFi ASAP (and deactivate roaming) if you’re planning to use it at all when on board.
This is because there’s a separate maritime phone network which uses satellite – and this is very pricey. Once on board, if your phone can’t connect to any of the usual networks you use on land, it will try to connect to this more expensive one.
The easiest way to ensure no-one gets a surprise on their next phone bill is to tell them all to switch to aeroplane mode as soon as you board (or even before).
And make sure everyone who plans to take their phone on the trip checks out their network’s roaming charges before you set off from school.
Post-Brexit, us Brits have lost the guarantee of free roaming in the EU. Some networks allow you to buy packages or add-ons to cover your trip which are cheaper than the roaming charges they would otherwise apply (but each network’s different, so do remind everyone to check).
Hopefully, these tips help you sail through Dover on your next trip.
If you have any tips of your own, we’d love to hear them – just drop us a comment on X, Facebook or Instagram.
Head of Operations & Customer Experience
