How do I get to Caen by ferry from England?
Do you want to discover Normandy without flying?
Taking the ferry from England to Caen is the most convenient option, especially if you would like to bring your car with you.
Here is everything you need to know to plan your trip with complete peace of mind.
Only one company operates the route between England and Caen: Brittany Ferries.
This is the busiest cross-Channel route, with nearly 3 departures per day and 20 crossings per week, depending on the season.
If you are traveling between Portsmouth and Caen/Ouistreham, the crossing takes approximately 6 hours during the day and 8 hours overnight.
On board, you can enjoy restaurants, cabins, and relaxation areas, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Since April 2025, the route has been operated by a brand-new hybrid ferry, the Guillaume de Normandie, named in honor of William the Conqueror.
On board, you can enjoy restaurants, shops, an outdoor fitness area, a brasserie, a children’s play area, and a bar.
Departures from Portsmouth to Caen are generally scheduled at 8:15 a.m., 2:45 p.m., 10:00 p.m., and 10:45 p.m., offering plenty of flexibility to suit your travel plans.
Fares vary depending on the season, the type of vehicle, and the booking date.
Prices generally start from around €148.
It is therefore advisable to book early, as the lowest fares tend to sell out quickly during peak season.
Once your ferry has docked in Ouistreham, you can easily reach Caen in less than 15 minutes via the D515 road, which leads directly to Place de la République.
Stay in a hotel less than 15 minutes from the Port of Ouistreham, an ideal choice for ferry travelers.
The Best Western Royal Hotel benefits from a public underground car park just 20 metres away, making arrivals and departures particularly convenient before your crossing.
Located on Place de la République, our hotel offers modern, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, featuring either a shower or a bathtub.
Start your day with a generous breakfast served every morning. You can also take advantage of our room service.
The Royal Hotel is also perfectly located for exploring William the Conqueror’s city, the D-Day Landing Beaches, and even Mont Saint-Michel.
Book direct and enjoy our best rates!
Taking the ferry from England to Caen is the most convenient option, especially if you would like to bring your car with you.
Here is everything you need to know to plan your trip with complete peace of mind.
Portsmouth–Caen: The Direct Route with Brittany Ferries
Only one company operates the route between England and Caen: Brittany Ferries.
This is the busiest cross-Channel route, with nearly 3 departures per day and 20 crossings per week, depending on the season.
If you are traveling between Portsmouth and Caen/Ouistreham, the crossing takes approximately 6 hours during the day and 8 hours overnight.
On board, you can enjoy restaurants, cabins, and relaxation areas, ensuring a comfortable journey.
The New Ship: Guillaume de Normandie
Since April 2025, the route has been operated by a brand-new hybrid ferry, the Guillaume de Normandie, named in honor of William the Conqueror.
On board, you can enjoy restaurants, shops, an outdoor fitness area, a brasserie, a children’s play area, and a bar.
What You Need to Know Before Booking
Departures from Portsmouth to Caen are generally scheduled at 8:15 a.m., 2:45 p.m., 10:00 p.m., and 10:45 p.m., offering plenty of flexibility to suit your travel plans.
Fares vary depending on the season, the type of vehicle, and the booking date.
Prices generally start from around €148.
It is therefore advisable to book early, as the lowest fares tend to sell out quickly during peak season.
How to Reach Caen City Centre from Ouistreham
Once your ferry has docked in Ouistreham, you can easily reach Caen in less than 15 minutes via the D515 road, which leads directly to Place de la République.
Stay in a hotel less than 15 minutes from the Port of Ouistreham, an ideal choice for ferry travelers.
The Best Western Royal Hotel benefits from a public underground car park just 20 metres away, making arrivals and departures particularly convenient before your crossing.
Located on Place de la République, our hotel offers modern, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, featuring either a shower or a bathtub.
Start your day with a generous breakfast served every morning. You can also take advantage of our room service.
The Royal Hotel is also perfectly located for exploring William the Conqueror’s city, the D-Day Landing Beaches, and even Mont Saint-Michel.
Book direct and enjoy our best rates!
