Travelling by Ferry with Pets: Everything You Need to Know
Taking a four-legged friend along on holiday makes every trip more enjoyable, but if the destination is an island or a coastal spot, one question often comes up: how does travelling with a pet on a ferry actually work? This guide covers everything needed to ensure a smooth and stress-free crossing with your companion.
Are pets allowed on board?
Yes, most ferry operators allow pets on board ferries and hydrofoils, as long as they are properly included in the booking. Each pet must have a valid travel ticket, which may be free or come with a small surcharge, depending on the company’s policy. It’s essential to declare the animal at the time of booking.
What documents are required?
To safeguard the wellbeing of all passengers, pets usually need to be registered with the national canine registry (for dogs), have a certificate from a vet confirming they’re in good health, be up to date with mandatory vaccinations and treatments, and, for international routes, hold a valid pet passport. Some destinations also require a specific vaccination. Since rules can change, it’s best to check with a trusted vet well in advance of travel.
Where do pets stay on board?
Accommodation for pets depends on the length of the journey.
▪ Short crossings
On shorter routes, pets are usually allowed to stay with their owners in both indoor and outdoor public areas of the ferry, apart from dining areas. Dogs must be kept on a lead and may be required to wear a muzzle, while cats and small pets should travel in a secure carrier. Owners are responsible for their pet at all times and must provide all necessary care throughout the crossing.
▪ Longer crossings
For medium and long-distance journeys, including both day and overnight sailings, two types of dedicated accommodation are generally available:
• On-board kennels and catteries:
Where available, animals are automatically assigned a space in the ferry’s kennel or cattery, typically located on a sheltered outdoor deck. These facilities include stacked metal cages, and animals of different species may be placed nearby. Owners can visit their pet during the journey, provide care, and take dogs to designated toilet areas, always on a lead and with a muzzle if required. Cats and other small animals must remain in their own carriers, which are not supplied by the ferry.
• Pet-friendly cabins:
Many operators offer a limited number of cabins designed to accommodate travellers with pets. These can be booked online by selecting the appropriate option during ticket purchase and allow pets to stay comfortably with their owners for the entire journey. As availability is limited, booking early is strongly advised.
Pet care and what to bring
Looking after a pet during the journey is entirely the owner’s responsibility. It’s important to bring a lead and muzzle, a suitable pet carrier, bowls for food and water, and waste disposal items such as bags and a scoop.
Don’t leave behind the one who follows you everywhere, tail wagging. Travelling by ferry with a pet is straightforward and well-organised — all it takes is the right preparation, a suitable booking, and the willingness to share the journey. Because every destination is better when explored together.
