We've done the Eurostar chunnel crossing numerous times, and would like to try a ferry (more scenic) this time. Leaving Southampton enroute to Paris, which is the best route (Portsmouth or Dover)?
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
If I were doing this, I'd take the morning Brittany Ferry from Portsmouth to Caen (Ouistreham), possibly spend a little time in Caen, and then take a train to Paris the same day. Or I'd consider spending the night in Bayeux and taking the train to Paris in the morning.
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Leaving from Portsmouth, you're looking at a much longer ride (maybe ten hours in some cases) since the channel is wider. You also have a much wider selection of landing spots (Le Havre to St Malo, if not more). The frequency of departure times is also limited. You'll be out of sight of land a good bit, so, unless you like looking at ships, most of the water looks pretty much the same.
If you leave from Dover, you can choose either Dunkerque, Boulogne, or Calais as a destingation. Either way the trip's two hours at most. Most of the time you can see land in both directions and more ships as well since they're feeding through a choke point.
For me, and hour or two is enough. I'd go Dover - Calais. Additionally it's cheaper, has frequent departures, and probably has better connections to Paris.
I drive, so can't comment on Southampton - Dover or Calais - Paris trains.
You can fiddle with options at directferries.co.uk.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
To go from Southampton to Dover by train requires a connection in London and it's a 3.5-hour ride.
It's one hour by train from Southampton to Portsmouth.
Posted by
Derry
175 posts
Hi Olga, I have never taken the ferry from Southampton to France but I have taken the ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe France. Nice trip. The Brighton/Hove area is an enjoyable stop enroute and the Newhaven Port is about a twenty minute bus trip from the Brighton pier. Another option is taking a train direct to the port. Have fun.