About This Route
P&O Ferries operates the popular Dover–Calais short crossing (90 minutes) and accepts cats and dogs in vehicles. This is a no-frills pet travel option — your cat stays in your car for the crossing. It's quick, frequent (up to 23 sailings daily), and straightforward. P&O is ideal for a fast Channel crossing when you're driving to or from continental Europe.
Cat Travel Details
Pet Fee
£15 per pet each way. Dogs must stay in vehicle — foot passengers cannot bring pets.
Cat Notes
Cats must remain in the vehicle for the entire 90-minute crossing. Ensure adequate ventilation and water. Use a secure carrier within the vehicle. The crossing is short enough that most cats handle it well. No kennels, cabins, or pet areas available.
Booking
Declare your pet when booking. No separate pet facility booking needed — your cat stays in the car.
Pro Tip
The fastest Channel crossing option. Ideal if your cat is comfortable in the car. Park with windows slightly cracked for ventilation. The 90-minute crossing is short enough that most cats are fine. Avoid the hottest part of the day in summer — early morning or evening crossings are best. You can visit your car during the crossing.
Restrictions
Foot passengers cannot bring pets. Pets must stay in vehicle at all times. No pet cabins, kennels, or lounges.
When P&O Works Well for Cats
P&O is best for drivers who need a short Channel crossing and whose cat already tolerates car travel. The appeal is simplicity: frequent Dover-Calais sailings, a short time at sea, and no airline cargo handover.
It is not the right choice if you need a foot-passenger pet option, a cabin, or a quiet indoor pet lounge. For anxious cats, longer but cabin-based ferry routes may be calmer than leaving the cat on a busy vehicle deck.
In summer, timing matters. Early morning or late evening departures reduce heat risk. If the route rules require your cat to remain in the car, ventilation and carrier placement are the core welfare checks.
Before You Book P&O With a Cat
- Confirm the sailing accepts pets for your passenger type and that your booking clearly includes the cat.
- Use a hard or well-structured carrier fixed securely in the vehicle, away from direct sun and loose luggage.
- Prepare UK/EU entry documents before reaching the port: microchip, rabies evidence, AHC or EU Pet Passport, and destination checks.
- Build in port delays. Food, water, absorbent pads and cleaning supplies matter more than the scheduled 90-minute sailing time.