## Travelling from Newhaven to Dieppe with Pets: The Complete 2025 Ferry Guide
Taking the ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe with pets is a convenient and pet-friendly way to cross the English Channel. Whether you’re heading to France for a holiday, relocating, or simply exploring Europe with your furry companion, this route offers a relaxed and scenic alternative to flying. Operated by DFDS, the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry is one of the most accessible and affordable options for pet owners travelling between the UK and France.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry with pets in 2025. From booking and documents to onboard facilities, pet travel requirements, and local connections, we’ve compiled the most up-to-date and practical information to help you plan your journey with confidence.
Whether you’re travelling by car or as a foot passenger, this route accommodates a wide range of travellers and their pets. With a crossing time of around four hours and up to three daily sailings in peak season, it’s a flexible and reliable choice for pet-friendly travel between the UK and mainland Europe.
(For more pet travel tips, see our guide to travelling with pets on ferries.)
## Quick Facts: Newhaven to Dieppe Ferry with Pets
– **Operator**: DFDS Seaways
– **Crossing Time**: Approximately 4 hours
– **Frequency**: Up to 3 sailings per day (seasonal)
– **Pet-Friendly**: Yes – pets allowed in vehicles or pet-friendly cabins
– **Foot Passengers with Pets**: Allowed with advance booking
– **Vehicle Types**: Cars, motorhomes, bicycles, foot passengers
– **Documents Required**: Pet passport or Animal Health Certificate (AHC), microchip, rabies vaccination
– **Check-In Time**: 90 minutes before departure (with pets)
– **Onboard Facilities**: Cafés, lounges, pet-friendly cabins (limited availability)
– **Booking Options**: Online, by phone, or via travel agents
The Newhaven to Dieppe ferry route is one of the few cross-Channel services that cater well to pet owners. DFDS allows pets to travel either in your vehicle or in designated pet-friendly cabins (subject to availability). Foot passengers with pets are also accepted, but must book in advance and follow specific boarding procedures. The crossing takes approximately four hours, and there are up to three daily sailings during high season, making it a flexible option for planning your trip. Pet documentation is essential—ensure your pet is microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination and Animal Health Certificate or EU pet passport.
## Route Overview
The Newhaven to Dieppe ferry route connects the south coast of England with the Normandy region of northern France. Operated exclusively by DFDS Seaways, this route is especially popular with travellers seeking a quieter, less congested alternative to the Dover–Calais crossing.
Newhaven is located in East Sussex, around 10 miles from Brighton and easily accessible by road and rail from London and the South East. Dieppe, on the French side, is a charming coastal town in Normandy, offering excellent onward travel links to Paris, Rouen, and other parts of France.
The ferry crossing takes approximately four hours, making it one of the longer Channel crossings—but the relaxed pace and pet-friendly facilities make it ideal for those travelling with animals. The route is operational year-round, with up to three sailings per day during peak periods (spring and summer) and reduced services in winter.
Travelling with pets on this route is straightforward. If you’re travelling by car, your pet can remain in the vehicle for the duration of the crossing. Alternatively, DFDS offers a limited number of pet-friendly cabins, which must be booked well in advance. Foot passengers with pets are also accepted but must follow specific procedures for boarding and disembarkation.
The route is popular with holidaymakers heading to France for camping, caravanning, or pet-friendly accommodation stays. It’s also a top choice for expats and those relocating with pets, thanks to its ease of access and pet travel compliance with UK and EU regulations.
(See our full guide to UK–Europe ferry crossings for more route comparisons.)
## FAQs
### Can I take my pet on the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry?
Yes, you can take your pet on the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry. DFDS allows dogs, cats, and ferrets to travel either in your vehicle or in a pet-friendly cabin. Foot passengers with pets are also accepted, but must book in advance and follow specific check-in and boarding procedures. All pets must meet the EU pet travel requirements, including microchipping, rabies vaccination, and a valid Animal Health Certificate or EU pet passport.
### How long is the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing?
The crossing time between Newhaven and Dieppe is approximately four hours. This can vary slightly depending on sea conditions and the specific sailing schedule. While it’s a longer crossing than Dover–Calais, it offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience, especially beneficial when travelling with pets.
### Are foot passengers with pets allowed on this route?
Yes, foot passengers with pets are allowed on the Newhaven to Dieppe route, but only with prior arrangement. You must contact DFDS customer service in advance to confirm availability and ensure your pet is booked correctly. Pets must be secured in an appropriate carrier or on a lead and muzzled (if required) during boarding and disembarkation.
### What documents do I need to travel with a pet from the UK to France?
To travel from the UK to France with a pet, you’ll need:
– A microchip (implanted before rabies vaccination)
– A valid rabies vaccination certificate
– An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel (if travelling from the UK)
– Alternatively, an EU Pet Passport (only valid if issued in the EU or Northern Ireland)
These documents must be presented at check-in. Pets without the correct documentation may be refused travel.
(Read more about travelling with pets on ferries.)
### What is the check-in process for pets?
Check-in for passengers travelling with pets opens 90 minutes before departure and closes 45 minutes before sailing. You’ll need to present your pet’s documents at the check-in desk. If your pet is staying in the vehicle, you’ll be directed to a designated lane. If you’ve booked a pet-friendly cabin or are a foot passenger with a pet, staff will assist with boarding procedures.
### Can pets stay in the car during the crossing?
Yes, pets can remain in your vehicle during the crossing. However, you will not be permitted to visit your vehicle while the ship is at sea, so ensure your pet is comfortable, has adequate ventilation, and access to water. DFDS recommends walking your dog before boarding and using absorbent bedding for longer crossings.
### Are there pet-friendly cabins available?
Yes, DFDS offers a limited number of pet-friendly cabins on the Newhaven to Dieppe route. These must be booked in advance and are subject to availability. The cabins are equipped with vinyl flooring and are thoroughly cleaned between sailings. Only one pet is allowed per cabin, and pets must remain in the cabin during the crossing.
### How much does it cost to take a pet on the ferry?
As of 2025, the cost to take a pet on the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry is approximately £30–£40 per pet, per crossing. Pet-friendly cabins are an additional cost, usually around £50–£70 extra per crossing. Prices vary depending on season and availability, so early booking is recommended.
(See our ferry prices guide for more details.)
### Can I book the ferry online if I’m travelling with a pet?
Yes, you can book online when travelling with a pet. DFDS’s website allows you to add pets during the booking process. If you’re a foot passenger with a pet, it’s best to call customer service to ensure the correct arrangements are made. Always double-check that your booking includes pet travel and any required cabin upgrades.
### What facilities are available for pets onboard?
If your pet is staying in a pet-friendly cabin, they’ll have a comfortable space to rest during the crossing. There are no designated pet exercise areas onboard, so it’s important to walk your dog before boarding. If your pet remains in the vehicle, ensure they are secure and comfortable. There are no kennel facilities on this route.
### What happens when I arrive in Dieppe with my pet?
Upon arrival in Dieppe, you’ll disembark and proceed through customs. There is currently no pet check on arrival in France, but you must carry all required documentation in case of inspection. If you’re returning to the UK, your pet will need a tapeworm treatment administered 24–120 hours before re-entry.
## Essential Travel Information
When travelling from Newhaven to Dieppe with pets, preparation is key. Here’s what you need to know for a smooth journey:
– **Check-In Process**: Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. Pet documentation will be checked at the terminal. If you’ve booked a pet-friendly cabin, you’ll be directed to the appropriate boarding lane.
– **Documents**: Your pet must have a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and either an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or an EU Pet Passport. These are legal requirements for travel between the UK and EU.
– **Vehicles**: Most travellers with pets choose to travel by car. Pets can remain in the vehicle during the crossing, but you won’t be able to visit them, so ensure they are secure and comfortable.
– **Foot Passengers**: Foot passengers with pets are accepted but must pre-book and follow specific boarding procedures. Pets must be in a carrier or on a lead and muzzled if required.
– **Luggage**: Foot passengers are allowed two pieces of luggage. Vehicle passengers can carry luggage in their cars. There are no luggage trolleys at
Leave a Reply