The Portsmouth to St Malo ferry route is a popular and practical connection between the south coast of England and the historic walled city of St Malo in Brittany, France. Operated primarily by Brittany Ferries, this overnight crossing offers a comfortable and scenic alternative to flying, especially for those travelling with a car, pets, or extra luggage. Understanding the Portsmouth to St Malo luggage allowance is essential for planning your journey, whether you’re a foot passenger or bringing your vehicle along.
| Crossing Time | Approx. 8 hrs 50 mins (overnight) |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Up to 7 sailings per week (seasonal) |
| Main Operator | Brittany Ferries |
| Average Price Range | £120 – £350 (car + 2 passengers, cabin included) |
Route Overview and Operators
Brittany Ferries is the sole operator on the Portsmouth to St Malo route, offering overnight sailings aboard well-equipped vessels such as the Bretagne and Pont-Aven. These ferries are designed for comfort, with private cabins, restaurants, bars, and onboard entertainment. The route is especially popular during the spring and summer months, when additional sailings are scheduled to meet demand.
Compared to flying, this ferry route offers the advantage of bringing your own vehicle, avoiding airport queues, and enjoying a more relaxed travel experience. It’s also a preferred option for those travelling with pets or larger amounts of luggage, as ferry allowances are generally more generous than airline restrictions.
Essential Travel Information for 2025
Booking, Check-in, and Documents
For 2025, passengers are advised to book their tickets well in advance, especially during school holidays and summer weekends. Online booking through the Brittany Ferries website allows you to select your cabin, vehicle type, and any extras such as meals or pet-friendly cabins.
Check-in typically opens 2.5 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes prior for foot passengers, and 60 minutes prior for vehicles. It is essential to arrive on time to avoid missing your sailing.
Post-Brexit travel regulations require all UK travellers to carry a valid passport with at least three months’ validity beyond the intended date of return. EU citizens must also carry a valid passport. ID cards are no longer accepted for entry into the UK or France from either side. No visa is required for short stays (under 90 days in a 180-day period) for UK citizens visiting France.
Travelling with Vehicles, Pets, and Luggage
– **Vehicles**: If you’re bringing a car, motorhome, or motorcycle, ensure you have valid insurance that covers travel in the EU, a UK sticker, and your V5C logbook. Headlight beam deflectors and high-visibility vests are also required under French law.
– **Pets**: Travelling with pets is straightforward under the EU Pet Travel Scheme. From 2021 onwards, UK-issued EU pet passports are no longer valid. Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued within 10 days of travel, proof of microchipping, and a rabies vaccination certificate. Brittany Ferries offers pet-friendly cabins and onboard kennels, but these must be booked in advance.
– **Luggage**: One of the key advantages of ferry travel is the generous luggage allowance. For passengers travelling by car, there are no specific luggage restrictions—pack as much as your vehicle can safely carry. Foot passengers are typically allowed two medium-sized suitcases and one small item of hand luggage per person. There are no weight limits, but passengers must be able to carry their own bags. Luggage trolleys are available at the port, and onboard storage is provided in cabins or designated luggage areas.
Money-Saving Tips and Onward Travel
To get the best prices, consider booking several months in advance and travelling during off-peak periods such as midweek or outside school holidays. Brittany Ferries often offers early booking discounts and package deals that include accommodation in France.
Cabin prices vary depending on the level of comfort and the season. Opting for a reclining seat instead of a cabin can reduce costs, although cabins are recommended for overnight crossings.
Onboard amenities include free WiFi in public areas, à la carte and self-service restaurants, bars, a cinema, and duty-free shopping. Pet-friendly cabins are limited and should be reserved early if travelling with animals.
Upon arrival in St Malo, travellers can easily connect to other parts of Brittany and western France. The port is well linked by road and rail, with car hire services and taxis available. Regional trains connect St Malo to Rennes, Nantes, and Paris, making it a convenient entry point to explore France.
Final Thoughts
The Portsmouth to St Malo ferry route remains one of the most convenient and flexible ways to travel between the UK and France in 2025. With generous luggage allowances, pet-friendly options, and the ability to bring your own vehicle, it offers a stress-free alternative to air travel. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a road trip through Brittany, or a pet-inclusive getaway, this route delivers comfort, reliability, and excellent value. Be sure to check the latest 2025 regulations and book early to secure the best fares and cabin options.