Most ferry operators allow a maximum of 5 pets (dogs, cats, or ferrets) per vehicle. For foot passengers, the limit is generally lower, often around 2-3 pets, and they must be in carriers or booked in kennels. Specific rules vary by operator:
You can book a maximum of 5 pets per vehicle when booking online. If you require more than 5 pets on one booking, please contact us. You cannot travel with pets if you are travelling as a foot passenger, by bicycle or by motorcycle.
We know travelling with a pet is important. At P&O Ferries dogs, cats or ferrets are allowed to travel on our ships, as long as they meet all the EU entry requirements and have a valid AHC or EU Pet Passport as stated above. We also allow the transportation of pet birds, with the correct documentation.
If you do not book the pet lounge then your dog must remain in the car. We recommend that you leave your dog plenty of water and keep the windows slightly open so your dog can stay hydrated and not overheat.
Dogs can travel for free on the outside decks — just make sure they're on a lead and under control. Only registered guide or assistance dogs are allowed inside the passenger lounge. Taking a cat to Waiheke? They'll need to stay in your vehicle or travel in an approved pet carrier.
Travelling by ferry with your pet | Brittany Ferries
Where do dogs go to the toilet on a ferry?
All pet owners must clean up after their pets both in the cabins and on the decks. Pets travelling on Stena Edda (Liverpool – Belfast), Stena Embla (Liverpool – Belfast) and Stena Estrid (Holyhead – Dublin) can get fresh air, exercise and toilet breaks in a dedicated area on the outside deck.
Why are you not allowed to sit in your car on a ferry?
For safety reasons passengers are not permitted to remain in their vehicle when the ferry is at sea. Prior to departure the vehicle deck is secured by our crew and closed to the public. Passengers are not permitted to access to the deck during the crossing.
If you want to bring a dog, cat or ferret to the Netherlands from another EU country: the animal must be at least 15 weeks old. the animal must be vaccinated at 12 weeks old. after the animal has been vaccinated, you must wait 21 days before bringing it to the Netherlands.
It is mandatory for all pets to be on a leash at all times when not in a carrier/crate, either in the port area/terminal building or on board. All dogs on a lead must wear a muzzle if they are a restricted breed or if there is a risk of biting. Details of restricted breeds can be found here: Restricted Breeds list.
With Stena Line, pets are welcome and you can pre-book your companion into a kennel, stay with you on onboard (there are some rules around this) or keep them inside the car on selected routes.
Can I take my dog on the ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao?
Yes, you can easily take your dog on board our ferries. Only assistance dogs are allowed in public areas, all other pets must stay in your car, an onboard kennel or a pet-friendly cabin, and the pet exercise area.
You cannot bring more than 5 pets to Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) unless you're attending or training for a competition, show or sporting event. You'll need written evidence of registration for the event when you travel.
The cost for an AHC typically ranges from £150 to £350, depending on the specific requirements. This includes a microchip (£10–£30), a rabies vaccination (£40–£70), and the AHC issuance by a vet (£100–£200) after a 21-day wait following the rabies shot.
The average price for a foot passenger is £62*. The average price for a car is £151*. Pricing will vary depending on number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times.
For overnight sailings without a cabin there are public showers on our ships and we sell Sleep Packs on board. There is plenty to do whilst on board, especially for children, with a host of fun activities including indoor playrooms, outdoor areas and even cinemas and swimming pools on some ships.
For drivers in the UK, the ferry is usually slightly cheaper, but whichever option you choose, make sure to shop around for deals and book well ahead of time to get the best-value fares.
Red Jets. Dogs are welcome to travel on the Red Jets and don't require a ticket. We kindly ask that dogs keep off the seats and remain on a lead at all times. Your pet pooch might get a tasty treat when they arrive at the terminal and on board (if they're allowed).
