Tips To Remember When Travelling By Ferry With The Kids

Traveling by car and ferry from the UK to Europe is a better experience for the family compared to flying. It is the best option when you consider two essential elements – seating and luggage.

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Luggage

A plane is a restrictive form of transportation. Each passenger must carry at least 15 – 20 kg of luggage, inclusive of the hand luggage. But the game is different when it concerns a ferry. You can take with you whatever fits in the car. Therefore, you need not worry about leaving some things for your toddler or the baby's equipment when traveling. Conversely, it will be an opportunity to bring back several items for your visits when coming home.

Seating

Planes have narrow seating which can be uncomfortable, and the bathroom situation does little to remedy the situation. You cannot distance your older bickering preteens from each other, your energetic toddler yarns running around and climbing on things, and it all makes the journey feel longer than it should. Your kids have an entire ship to explore and they do not need to sit down unless they are tired.

So, here are a few pointers to remember when planning a ferry crossing with your children.

Book Early

Your chances of getting the best value tickets are higher when making advance bookings. School summer holidays and other peak times are busy periods. Therefore, book the earliest possible time to ensure you secure your preferred crossing time.

Book A Cabin

Ferry crossings can take two to three hours. So, consider booking a cabin for the long haul. It ensures you have a private spot to rest and store your belongings. Most ferries have en-suite cabins, and others even have cots. Find out the type of quarters available on the ferry to ensure you pick a place that meets your needs.

Pack A Ferry Bag

Since everyone will be itching to get to the passenger decks immediately after you have parked the car on the ferry, ensure that you have packed everything you will need in a bag. Passengers are not allowed to re-enter their vehicles during the crossing. A backpack would be ideal so that your hands are free to hold the small ones who can get away from you or ensure you can grasp the handrails.

Parking

Engage the handbrake once you bring your car to a stop and confirm it is on before stepping out. Also, leave the alarm off and not where you are parked for easier location of the vehicle when the ferry docks and it is time to disembark.

Seating

If you didn’t get a cabin, find seats where you can sit and unwind during the crossing. A place where your stuff is secure if you decide to explore the ship. Consider taking a sheet or light blanket with you just in case you or the little ones doze off. Keep the stroller brakes on when you are not moving to prevent it from rolling away with the ferry’s motion.

Exploring The Ferry

Checking out the passenger decks, restaurants, and facilities on the ferry can be a fun way of making the most of the time on board. Perhaps you might be familiar with everything, but the kids might be new to it all, so let them explore. Some ferries have game rooms, cinemas, playrooms, and other entertainment areas. Head to the information deck to find out what the ferry has to offer and ensure everyone knows where to assemble when the ferry arrives at the port. Also, go to the deck to have a better view of everything; it helps you know what's happening, especially moments after it’s announced you are about to dock.

Food And Drink

Restaurants on ferries can get busy. You can avoid the long queues and save time and money by packing food and drinks to take you during the crossing. A cool bag will be handy if you want to keep everything chill and fresh.

Clothes

Ensure everyone has warm layers and pack some spare clothes. It is best to have something to change into if you have a messy eater, anyone gets seasick, or the open waters get a bit breezy.