
Accessible Travel
Accessible travel with DFDS
DFDS is committed to making travel on our services as comfortable as possible for all passengers, particularly those who may require additional assistance during their journey.
Our team onboard and ashore have been provided with Awareness Training to ensure the highest standards of care.
You are entitled to assistance both in port and onboard. To help us make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, please let us know if you or anyone in your party requires special assistance by contacting accessibletravel@dfds.com at the time of booking or no later than 48 hours before departure. This allows us to ensure the appropriate support is in place for boarding, disembarkation, and throughout your journey.
Accessible travel on the UK-France Routes
Accessible travel on the UK-France Routes
We shall ensure that all relevant information and access conditions are available in appropriate and accessible formats.
For safety reasons we can only cater for up to five wheelchair passengers at once onboard our vessels.
Hearing impairment: If you or a member of your party has a hearing impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. The crew will make sure that you receive any important messages which are broadcasted during the crossing.
Visual impairment: If you or a member of your party has a visual impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. On arrival, our staff will help you to locate the passenger areas and assist wherever possible.
Carriage of Mobility & Medical Assistance: All mobility and medical equipment may be taken into the passenger accommodation or on the vehicle deck. Please notify us of any need to bring mobility and/or medical equipment at the time of the booking. You can travel with medical oxygen with written permission from a GP advising that medical oxygen is required. We need to be informed that medical oxygen will potentially be used on the voyage at the time of booking. We can carry a maximum of 6 x size F i.e. up to 60 litres aggregate water capacity.
Travelling with Neurodiversity: Our neurodiversity travel guides are designed to support customers who may benefit from additional assistance during their journey. They provide a clear, step-by-step overview of the full travel experience, from arrival at the port and the check-in process, through boarding and time spent onboard, to disembarkation at the final destination. At each stage, the guides highlight potential sensory, physical, and environmental factors, such as noise levels, lighting, crowd density, and movement, helping customers better understand what to expect and plan ahead with confidence. View our accessibility guide for Dover - France routes.
In order to be able to make your journey with DFDS as comfortable as possible, we need to know any specific needs with regards to accommodation, services required or mobility and/or medical equipment ideally at the time of booking. You can also let us know up to 2 working days before you travel using the contact details below. This will ensure we can have the appropriate assistance in place.
If you would like to contact us, you can do so by visiting our contact page here.
If you have booked through a travel agent or a tour operator you should advise your booking agent that you will require assistance and ask to pass this information on to DFDS.
After assessing your specific requirements, DFDS may require that you are accompanied by an individual that can assist you during the journey. Before making this requirement, we will have a dialogue with you and always consider your wishes. Such an accompanying person shall be carried free of charge.
Once you have contacted us, a note will then be added to your booking which will ensure that where possible your needs are taken into consideration.
Any information relating to you will be obtained in a discreet manner and stored with a regard for confidentiality and in accordance with our privacy policy. This information will only be shared on an operational basis, necessary to the carrying out of the tasks required and to inform the ships if there are passengers in need of special assistance in case of any emergency.
If you have not contacted us before you travel to alert us of your needs we cannot guarantee you of assistance whilst travelling through our ports and onboard our vessels.
To help us make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, we need to know your requirements at your earliest convenience, ideally when you make your booking, but no later than two working days before you travel. We will always try our utmost to accommodate all requests for travel with us. Further information is available on our page dedicated to Accessible Travel.
Route | Lifts | Toilets | Cabins |
Dover - Dunkirk Dover / Delft / Dunkerque Seaways | 100cm x 138cm, door entrance width 90cm. Parking near the lift is available for your convenience. | Two accessible toilets located on decks 6 & 7 | Not available on this route. |
Dover - Calais Côte Des Dunes / Côte Des Flandres | 130cm x 158cm, door entrance width 90cm. Parking near the lift is available for your convenience. | Côte Des Flandres - 2 accessible toilets located on decks 7 & 8 Côte Des Dunes - 3 accessible toilets located on decks 7 & 8. | Not available on this route. |
Newhaven - Dieppe Cote D’Albatre / Seven Sisters | 130cm x 140cm, door entrance width 90cm. | Two accessible toilets located on decks 6 & 7. | Two-berth accessible cabin with berths at ground level. Cabin door width 90cm. |
All public areas including the bars, shop and restaurants are accessible for wheelchair users and guide dogs.
You will be advised via your booking confirmation of your check-in time at the port. Our terminals are accessible friendly and have accessible parking. We can provide wheelchairs in some ports (see the list below) and onboard our vessels with advance notification at the time of booking and where available. Passengers travelling in vehicles can be parked close to a lift and assisted by our crew if required.
Our ports and terminals have the following facilities for passengers who require additional assistance:
Terminal/Port | Wheelchair | Adapted Toilets | Lifts |
Dunkirk | No | Yes | Yes |
Dover | No | Yes | Yes |
Newhaven | Yes | Yes | No |
Dieppe | Yes | Yes | No |
On board DFDS we accept Assistance dogs who are recognised by the Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes. The above programmes ensure Assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.
Please notify our team if you are travelling with an Assistance Dog. You must ensure that the dog complies with the pet travel rules of the country they are travelling to. You will be asked to provide documentation.
There is no fee to bring your Assistance dog onboard and they are allowed in public areas on a harness/lead.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that Assistance & Guide dogs currently are. Emotional support animals can travel with us, but they must follow the same rules as pets. Further information is available on our page dedicated to pets
Accessible travel on the Amsterdam-Newcastle route
Accessible travel on the Amsterdam-Newcastle route
We shall ensure that all relevant information and access conditions are available in appropriate and accessible formats.
For safety reasons we can only cater for up to five wheelchair passengers at once onboard our vessels.
Hearing impairment: If you or a member of your party has a hearing impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. The crew will make sure that you receive any important messages which are broadcasted during the crossing.
Visual impairment: If you or a member of your party has a visual impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. On arrival, our staff will help you to locate the passenger areas and assist wherever possible.
Carriage of Mobility & Medical Assistance: All mobility and medical equipment may be taken into the passenger accommodation or on the vehicle deck. Please notify us of any need to bring mobility and/or medical equipment at the time of the booking. You can travel with medical oxygen with written permission from a GP advising that medical oxygen is required. We need to be informed that medical oxygen will potentially be used on the voyage at the time of booking. We can carry a maximum of 6 x size F i.e. up to 60 litres aggregate water capacity.
In order to be able to make your journey with DFDS as comfortable as possible, we need to know any specific needs with regards to accommodation, services required or mobility and/or medical equipment ideally at the time of booking. You can also let us know up to 2 working days before you travel using the contact details below. This will ensure we can have the appropriate assistance in place.
If you would like to contact us, you can do so by visiting our contact page here.
If you have booked through a travel agent or a tour operator you should advise your booking agent that you will require assistance and ask to pass this information on to DFDS.
After assessing your specific requirements, DFDS may require that you are accompanied by an individual that can assist you during the journey. Before making this requirement, we will have a dialogue with you and always consider your wishes. Such an accompanying person shall be carried free of charge.
Once you have contacted us, a note will then be added to your booking which will ensure that where possible your needs are taken into consideration.
Any information relating to you will be obtained in a discreet manner and stored with a regard for confidentiality and in accordance with our privacy policy. This information will only be shared on an operational basis, necessary to the carrying out of the tasks required and to inform the ships if there are passengers in need of special assistance in case of any emergency.
If you have not contacted us before you travel to alert us of your needs we cannot guarantee you of assistance whilst travelling through our ports and onboard our vessels.
To help us make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, we need to know your requirements at your earliest convenience, ideally when you make your booking, but no later than two working days before you travel. We will always try our utmost to accommodate all requests for travel with us. Further information is available on our page dedicated to Accessible Travel.
Newcastle - Amsterdam
Ship | Lifts | Toilets | Cabins* | Important information |
King Seaways | Suitable for regular sized wheelchair. If you need parking near the lift, please arrive at the port from 2pm. | One located on deck 9. | 6 cabins, located on deck 7. | Deck 5 has no lift access during sailing. Sky Bar on deck 12 is only accessible by a staircase. |
Princess Seaways | Suitable for regular sized wheelchairs. If you need parking near the lift, please arrive at the port from 2pm. | One Located on deck 7. | 4 cabins, located on deck | Deck 4 has no lift access during sailing. Sky Bar on deck 11 is only accessible by a staircase. |
*All our Accessible cabins can accommodate 2 passengers. Each cabin is fitted with tiled flooring, a seated shower with rails, desk & Towels.
All public areas including the bars, shop and restaurants are accessible for wheelchair users and guide dogs. However, the Sky Bar is only accessible via an external staircase.
You will be advised via your booking confirmation of your check-in time at the port. Our terminals are accessible friendly and have accessible parking. We can provide wheelchairs in some ports (see the list below) and onboard our vessels with advance notification at the time of booking and where available. Passengers travelling in vehicles can be parked close to a lift and assisted by our crew if required.
Our ports and terminals have the following facilities for passengers who require additional assistance:
Terminal/Port | Wheelchair | Adapted Toilets | Lifts |
IJmuiden | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Newcastle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
On board DFDS we accept Assistance dogs who are recognised by the Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes. The above programmes ensure Assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.
Please notify our team if you are travelling with an Assistance Dog. You must ensure that the dog complies with the pet travel rules of the country they are travelling to. You will be asked to provide documentation.
There is no fee to bring your Assistance dog onboard and they are allowed in public areas on a harness/lead.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that Assistance & Guide dogs currently are. Emotional support animals can travel with us, but they must follow the same rules as pets. Further information is available on our page dedicated to pets
Accessible travel on the UK-Jersey routes
Accessible travel on the UK-Jersey routes
We shall ensure that all relevant information and access conditions are available in appropriate and accessible formats. For safety reasons we can only cater for up to five wheelchair passengers at once onboard our vessels. Hearing impairment: If you or a member of your party has a hearing impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. The crew will make sure that you receive any important messages which are broadcasted during the crossing. Visual impairment: If you or a member of your party has a visual impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. On arrival, our staff will help you to locate the passenger areas and assist wherever possible. Carriage of Mobility & Medical Assistance: All mobility and medical equipment may be taken into the passenger accommodation or on the vehicle deck. Please notify us of any need to bring mobility and/or medical equipment at the time of the booking. You can travel with medical oxygen with written permission from a GP advising that medical oxygen is required. We need to be informed that medical oxygen will potentially be used on the voyage at the time of booking. We can carry a maximum of 6 x size F i.e. up to 60 litres aggregate water capacity. Travelling with Neurodiversity: Our neurodiversity travel guides are designed to support customers who may benefit from additional assistance during their journey. They provide a clear, step-by-step overview of the full travel experience, from arrival at the port and the check-in process, through boarding and time spent onboard, to disembarkation at the final destination. At each stage, the guides highlight potential sensory, physical, and environmental factors, such as noise levels, lighting, crowd density, and movement, helping customers better understand what to expect and plan ahead with confidence. View our accessibility guide for Poole - Jersey route. View our accessibility guide for Portsmouth - Jersey route. View our accessibility guide for St.Malo - Jersey route.
In order to be able to make your journey with DFDS as comfortable as possible, we need to know any specific needs with regards to accommodation, services required or mobility and/or medical equipment ideally at the time of booking. You can also let us know up to 2 working days before you travel using the contact details below. This will ensure we can have the appropriate assistance in place. If you would like to contact us, you can do so by visiting our contact page here. If you have booked through a travel agent or a tour operator you should advise your booking agent that you will require assistance and ask to pass this information on to DFDS. After assessing your specific requirements, DFDS may require that you are accompanied by an individual that can assist you during the journey. Before making this requirement, we will have a dialogue with you and always consider your wishes. Such an accompanying person shall be carried free of charge. Once you have contacted us, a note will then be added to your booking which will ensure that where possible your needs are taken into consideration. Any information relating to you will be obtained in a discreet manner and stored with a regard for confidentiality and in accordance with our privacy policy. This information will only be shared on an operational basis, necessary to the carrying out of the tasks required and to inform the ships if there are passengers in need of special assistance in case of any emergency. If you have not contacted us before you travel to alert us of your needs we cannot guarantee you of assistance whilst travelling through our ports and onboard our vessels.
To help us make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, we need to know your requirements at your earliest convenience, ideally when you make your booking, but no later than two working days before you travel. We will always try our utmost to accommodate all requests for travel with us. Poole-Jersey: Levante Jet Lift: Suitable for a regular sized wheelchair. Lift doors are 90 cm wide, and the internal lift dimensions are 140 x 135 cm. Toilets: Located on deck 3. Cabin: Not available on this route. Portsmouth-Jersey: Stena Vinga Lift: Suitable for regular sized wheelchair. Toilets: Located on deck 7. Cabin: Four-berth accessible cabin with two berths at ground level located on deck 8. St Malo-Jersey / Guernsey: Tarifa Jet Lift: No lift. Ramps onboard. Toilets: One located Main Deck, Zone D. Cabin: Not available on this route.
All public areas including the bars, shop and restaurants are accessible for wheelchair users and guide dogs.
You will be advised via your booking confirmation of your check-in time at the port. Our terminals are accessible friendly and have accessible parking. We can provide wheelchairs in some ports (see the list below) and onboard our vessels with advance notification at the time of booking and where available. Passengers travelling in vehicles can be parked close to a lift and assisted by our crew if required.
If you are travelling Guernsey - Jersey and you require onward travel on other DFDS routes to Poole, Portsmouth, or St Malo, a separate booking will be required. Please note that you must always disembark at your scheduled port of arrival before continuing your journey.
Our ports and terminals have the following facilities for passengers who require additional assistance:
Route | Wheelchair | Toilets | Lifts |
Poole | Yes | Yes | N/A all on one level |
Portsmouth | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Jersey | Yes | Yes | N/A all on one level |
Guernsey | Yes | Yes | N/A all on one level |
St Malo | Yes | Yes | N/A all on one level |
On board DFDS we accept Assistance dogs who are recognised by the Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes. The above programmes ensure Assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.
Please notify our team if you are travelling with an Assistance Dog. You must ensure that the dog complies with the pet travel rules of the country they are travelling to. You will be asked to provide documentation.
There is no fee to bring your Assistance dog onboard and they are allowed in public areas on a harness/lead.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that Assistance & Guide dogs currently are. Emotional support animals can travel with us, but they must follow the same rules as pets. Further information is available on our page dedicated to pets
We believe that everyone should be able to travel with confidence, independence, and complete peace of mind. Whether you’re travelling alone, with family, friends, or as part of a community group, or supporting someone with additional needs, our team is here to make your journey on our routes as smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free as possible.
To help you feel fully prepared, we have arrange a date where we can offer a free familiarisation experience designed to give you a first-hand understanding of what to expect before you travel.
This event also allows us to hear from you. Your questions, experiences, and feedback help us continue to improve the comfort and accessibility of our routes for everyone.
This experience is ideal for anyone who may benefit from extra reassurance or guidance, including:
- Individuals with mobility challenges, using wheelchairs, walking aids, or scooters
- People with sensory needs or anxiety around travel
- Families travelling with young children or pushchairs
- Groups from charities, schools, or community organisations supporting people with additional needs
- Anyone simply wishing to explore the journey before booking a ticket
Explore Our Terminal & Vessel Familiarisation Events
Our familiarisation events provide a unique opportunity to explore our terminals and vessels before your journey. You can see exactly what to expect when you check in, board, and move around the vessel.
During these free events, you can:
- Familiarise yourself with accessible entrances, ramps, lifts, and seating areas
- Experience our onboard facilities, including accessible toilets, quiet spaces, and family-friendly areas
- Speak directly with our team about accessibility support, including assistance with luggage, boarding, or navigating the terminal
- Ask questions about specific needs, such as travelling with guide dogs, hearing or visual impairments, or dietary requirements
Enjoy a Free Return Foot Passenger Familiarisation Trip (JE/ST)
For those who want a full hands-on experience, we offer free return foot passenger familiarisation trips with a dedicated accessibility specialist. You’ll travel the full route from start to finish, so you can gain confidence and understand exactly what your journey will be like.
For charities, community groups, or organisations, we can arrange fully escorted trips, with one of our friendly team members accompanying your group to provide guidance and support. During the trip, you’ll learn:
- How to check in and board smoothly, with support if needed
- How to move safely around the vessel and access all facilities
- What to expect during the crossing, including any safety procedures
- How to safely disembark at the destination
You’ll remain on board for the full round trip, with no need to plan a return journey. We handle all bookings and arrangements, all you need to do is arrive at the port.
Why Take a Familiarisation Trip?
Familiarisation trips are perfect for anyone who wants to:
- Reduce anxiety about travelling independently or with additional support needs
- Plan for a first-time journey with young children, elderly relatives, or someone with mobility challenges
- Experience our services and accessibility features firsthand before a booked journey
- Ask questions about everything from boarding procedures to onboard services
By attending a familiarisation trip, you’ll gain confidence, reassurance, and practical knowledge, making your next journey smoother, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.
Date: Wednesday September 30th
Jersey – St Malo
Check-in closes | Departure | Arrival |
07:40 | 08:25 | 11:20 |
St Malo – Jersey
Check-in closes | Departure | Arrival |
17:15 | 18:10 | 18:55 |
Places on our familiarisation experiences are limited and must be pre-booked in advance. To secure your spot:
- Contact our Customer Services team as soon as possible by email: jersey.customerexperience@dfds.com
- Provide details of any accessibility or additional support needs so we can make appropriate arrangements.
- Confirm the date you wish to attend.
Please note: Spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Terms & Conditions – Familiarisation Experiences
- Familiarisation events and free return foot passenger familiarisation trips are subject to availability and must be pre-booked seven days in advance. Dates, times, and capacity are limited.
- These experiences are provided free of charge and are intended solely for familiarisation purposes. They are not valid for leisure travel or onward journeys beyond the stated route.
- Participation is limited to foot passengers only. Vehicles are not permitted unless agreed in advance as part of an accessibility requirement.
- All participants must follow the instructions of crew at all times and comply with onboard safety procedures, port regulations, and vessel rules.
- Familiarisation trips involve travelling on a working service. Sailing times, routes, and vessels may be subject to change or cancellation due to operational requirements, weather conditions, or unforeseen circumstances.
- Attendance does not guarantee future availability of specific facilities, seating, or services on regular sailings, as these may vary by vessel and operational needs.
- Participants are responsible for their own personal belongings during the event. We cannot accept liability for loss or damage unless caused by our negligence.
- For group bookings (including charities, schools, or community organisations), a named group organiser must be provided and will act as the main point of contact.
- Any additional support needs, including assistance requirements, guide dogs, or accessibility equipment, should be disclosed at the time of booking by completing the booking form to allow appropriate arrangements to be made.
- We reserve the right to withdraw or amend familiarisation events at any time and to refuse participation where safety or operational concerns apply.
- By attending a familiarisation event or trip, participants consent to the use of anonymised feedback to help improve accessibility and customer experience.
- Passengers are responsible and required to have a full passport and comply with border travel requirements.
Accessible travel on Dunkirk-Rosslare route
Accessible travel on Dunkirk-Rosslare route
We shall ensure that all relevant information and access conditions are available in appropriate and accessible formats.
For safety reasons we can only cater for up to 1 wheelchair passengers at once onboard our vessels.
Hearing impairment: If you or a member of your party has a hearing impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. The crew will make sure that you receive any important messages which are broadcasted during the crossing.
Visual impairment: If you or a member of your party has a visual impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. On arrival, our staff will help you to locate the passenger areas and assist wherever possible.
Carriage of Mobility & Medical Assistance: All mobility and medical equipment may be taken into the passenger accommodation or on the vehicle deck. Please notify us of any need to bring mobility and/or medical equipment at the time of the booking. You can travel with medical oxygen with written permission from a GP advising that medical oxygen is required. We need to be informed that medical oxygen will potentially be used on the voyage at the time of booking. We can carry a maximum of 6 x size F i.e. up to 60 litres aggregate water capacity.
In order to be able to make your journey with DFDS as comfortable as possible, we need to know any specific needs with regards to accommodation, services required or mobility and/or medical equipment ideally at the time of booking. You can also let us know up to 2 working days before you travel using the contact details below. This will ensure we can have the appropriate assistance in place.
If you would like to contact us, you can do so by visiting our contact page here.
If you have booked through a travel agent or a tour operator you should advise your booking agent that you will require assistance and ask to pass this information on to DFDS.
After assessing your specific requirements, DFDS may require that you are accompanied by an individual that can assist you during the journey. Before making this requirement, we will have a dialogue with you and always consider your wishes. Such an accompanying person shall be carried free of charge.
Once you have contacted us, a note will then be added to your booking which will ensure that where possible your needs are taken into consideration.
Any information relating to you will be obtained in a discreet manner and stored with a regard for confidentiality and in accordance with our privacy policy. This information will only be shared on an operational basis, necessary to the carrying out of the tasks required and to inform the ships if there are passengers in need of special assistance in case of any emergency.
If you have not contacted us before you travel to alert us of your needs we cannot guarantee you of assistance whilst travelling through our ports and onboard our vessels.
To help us make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, we need to know your requirements at your earliest convenience, ideally when you make your booking, but no later than two working days before you travel. We will always try our utmost to accommodate all requests for travel with us. Further information is available on our page dedicated to Accessible Travel.
Ship | Lifts | Toilets | Cabins | Important info |
Athena Seaways | From deck 3 to deck 5 there are 2 escalators. A lift goes from deck 4 to deck 6 which is suitable for regular sized wheelchairs. | Located in the Reception Area. | 1 Cabin located on Deck 6. | During the sailing, lifts are switched off. To go from the your cabin on deck 6 to deck 5 simply speak to the Guest Service team onboard. |
Victoria Seaways | Suitable for regular sized manual wheelchairs. One lift. Dimensions: 203 cm x 180 cm, door width 93 cm. | One Located on deck 5. | One cabin available. | Restrictions: Lift available from deck 4 to deck 6. Escalator can be used between deck 3, 4 and 5. |
Most public areas including the bars, shop and restaurants are accessible for wheelchair users and guide dogs.
You will be advised via your booking confirmation of your check-in time at the port. Our terminals are accessible friendly and have accessible parking. We can provide wheelchairs in some ports (see the list below) and onboard our vessels with advance notification at the time of booking and where available. Passengers travelling in vehicles can be parked close to a lift and assisted by our crew if required.
Car parking: Rosslare port has 24-hour parking available within 5 minutes from the building. The port also offers accessible parking closer to the main terminal building, and a pick-up and drop-off zone directly outside the building. The cost of parking ranges depending on how long you’re staying. Website for more information.
Port facilities:
Terminal/Port | Wheelchair | Adapted Toilets | Lifts |
Dunkirk | No | Yes | Yes |
Rosslare | Yes | Yes | No |
On board DFDS we accept Assistance dogs who are recognised by the Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes. The above programmes ensure Assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.
Please notify our team if you are travelling with an Assistance Dog. You must ensure that the dog complies with the pet travel rules of the country they are travelling to. You will be asked to provide documentation.
There is no fee to bring your Assistance dog onboard and they are allowed in public areas on a harness/lead.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that Assistance & Guide dogs currently are. Emotional support animals can travel with us, but they must follow the same rules as pets. Further information is available on our page dedicated to pets
Accessible travel on the Baltic Sea routes
Accessible travel on the Baltic Sea routes
We shall ensure that all relevant information and access conditions are available in appropriate and accessible formats.
For safety reasons we can only cater for up to five wheelchair passengers at once onboard our vessels.
Hearing impairment: If you or a member of your party has a hearing impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. The crew will make sure that you receive any important messages which are broadcasted during the crossing.
Visual impairment: If you or a member of your party has a visual impairment, please mention this when making a reservation and report to the Information Desk when you board the ship. On arrival, our staff will help you to locate the passenger areas and assist wherever possible.
Carriage of Mobility & Medical Assistance: All mobility and medical equipment may be taken into the passenger accommodation or on the vehicle deck. Please notify us of any need to bring mobility and/or medical equipment at the time of booking. You can travel with medical oxygen with written permission from a GP advising that medical oxygen is required. We need to be informed that medical oxygen will potentially be used on the voyage at the time of booking. We can carry a maximum of 6 x size F i.e. up to 60 litres aggregate water capacity.
In order to make your journey with DFDS as comfortable as possible, we need to know any specific needs with regards to accommodation, services required or mobility and/or medical equipment ideally at the time of booking. You can also let us know up to 2 working days before you travel using the contact details below. This will ensure we can have the appropriate assistance in place.
If you would like to contact us, you can do so by visiting our contact page here.
If you have booked through a travel agent or a tour operator you should advise your booking agent that you will require assistance and ask to pass this information on to DFDS.
After assessing your specific requirements, DFDS may require that you are accompanied by an individual that can assist you during the journey. Before making this requirement, we will have a dialogue with you and always consider your wishes. Such an accompanying person shall be carried free of charge.
Once you have contacted us, a note will then be added to your booking which will ensure that where possible your needs are taken into consideration.
Any information relating to you will be obtained in a discreet manner and stored with a regard for confidentiality and in accordance with our privacy policy. This information will only be shared on an operational basis, necessary to the carrying out of the tasks required and to inform the ships if there are passengers in need of special assistance in case of any emergency. If you have not contacted us before you travel to alert us of your needs, we cannot guarantee you of assistance whilst travelling through our ports and onboard our vessels.
To help us make your journey as smooth and comfortable as possible, we need to know your requirements at your earliest convenience, ideally when you make your booking, but no later than two working days before you travel. We will always try our utmost to accommodate all requests for travel with us.
Baltic Sea Routes
Ship | Lifts | Toilets | Cabins* | Important information |
Aura & Luna Seaways | Suitable for regular sized manual wheelchairs. Two lifts. Dimensions: 215 cm x 140 cm, door width 110 cm. | One located on deck 9. | 2 cabins, located on deck 9. | Restrictions: Two lifts available from deck 3 to deck 11. |
Athena & Victoria Seaways | Suitable for regular sized manual wheelchairs. One lift. Dimensions: 203 cm x 180 cm, door width 93 cm. | One Located on deck 5. | One cabin available. | Restrictions: Lift available from deck 4 to deck 6. Escalator can be used between deck 3, 4 and 5. |
Sirena Seaways | Suitable for regular sized manual wheelchairs. One lift. Dimensions: 170 cm x 165 cm, door width 84 cm. | Located on deck 8. | Two cabins available. | One elevator available from car decks 6 and 7. |
Optima Seaways | We have two lifts onboard. One operates between the main deck and Deck 5. One between Deck 5 and Deck 6 which are all suitable for regular sized wheelchairs. | Only available in accessible cabins. | 2 Cabins located on Deck 5. | Deck 6 remains accessible via lift at all times. |
You will be advised via your booking confirmation of your check-in time at the port. Our terminals are accessible friendly and have accessible parking. We can provide wheelchairs in some ports (see the list below) and onboard our vessels with advance notification at the time of booking and where available. Passengers travelling in vehicles can be parked close to a lift and assisted by our crew if required.
Our ports and terminals have the following facilities for passengers who require additional assistance:
Terminal/Port | Wheelchair | Adapted Toilets | Lifts |
Kapellskar | No | Yes | Yes |
Karlshamn | No | Yes | Yes |
Klaipeda | No | Yes | Yes |
Kiel | No | Yes | No |
Paldiski | No | No | No |
On board DFDS we accept Assistance dogs who are recognised by the Assistance Dogs International, (ADI) and the International Guide Dogs Federation (IDGF) programmes. The above programmes ensure Assistance dogs are specifically trained to assist and support people with a disability.
Please notify our team if you are travelling with an Assistance Dog. You must ensure that the dog complies with the pet travel rules of the country they are travelling to. You will be asked to provide documentation.
There is no fee to bring your Assistance dog onboard and they are allowed in public areas on a harness/lead.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals are not legally recognised by the above organisations in the way that Assistance & Guide dogs currently are. Emotional support animals can travel with us, but they must follow the same rules as pets. Further information is available on our page dedicated to pets
Accessible travel on the Strait of Gibraltar routes
Accessible travel on the Strait of Gibraltar routes
Assistance in embarking and disembarking for people with reduced mobility (PRMs)
FRS, in accordance with its aim to improve accessibility to its vessels and in a determined drive to ensure equal rights and opportunities in access to transport services, provides guidance, information and assistance to travellers with reduced mobility (hereinafter referred to as PRMs) for access and assistance in embarking and disembarking, and during the trip.
The company’s ground personnel and ship’s crew are pleased to assist all passengers, always bearing in mind that the ship is a means of transport that is subject to safety measures that must be followed.
Accessibility and information
The new Regulation (EU) No. 1177/2010 on the rights of passengers travelling by sea and inland waterways, the full content of which is available for consultation at this link and at our company's offices located in the ports, establishes a series of applicable rules for non-discrimination of people with disabilities and/or people with reduced mobility and the provision of assistance to such persons.
The official regulations on accessibility to maritime transport of people with disabilities is contained in Royal Decree 1544/2007 of 23 November, which regulates the basic conditions accessibility and non-discrimination for access to and use of modes of transport for people with disabilities.
Booking and purchasing tickets
- At the ports of embarkation and FRS sales offices
- Travel agencies
- Through the FRS booking line: +34 956 68-18-30/ +34 956 62-72-82/ +212 539 94 26 12/ +49 461 86 46 03
- Through our website.
- General terms and conditions of the embarking and disembarking assistance service
- The request for the assistance service can be made at the time of booking or purchase of the ticket at ports, FRS offices, travel agencies or by telephone on +34 956 68-18-30/ +34 956 62-72-82/ +212 539 94 26 12
The person must notify FRS of the need for the service no later than 48 hours before assistance is required and must present proof of a person with reduced mobility.
The hours of provision are 7.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m.
The Service covers the journey from the entrance of the passenger terminal to the entrance to the ship or from the exit gangway from the ship to the the passenger terminal exit. When a PRM has requested the service, they must appear at the port in question, and of which they have been informed, at least 60 minutes before the announced departure time and thus be able to board the ship and take their seat with assurances.
Transport of the luggage of the person with reduced mobility is not included.
This is a courtesy service and is not included in the ticket price.
FRS will make every effort to provide the PRM with the assistance service properly, so that they are allowed to embark, disembark and travel on the vessel.
If the PRM requires a transit wheelchair for transfer through the port and/or access to the ship, they must request it at the time of booking or purchase of the ticket in ports, FRS offices, travel agencies or by calling +34 956 68-18-30/ +34 956 62-72-82/ +212 539 94 26 12
If several simultaneous assistances occur, their priority will be set according to the degree of need for the agreed service and their advance request.
Other terms and conditions of the assistance service
The passenger must consult us about the possibility of boarding if he or she uses special devices for their mobility.
If making the trip transferred to a conventional seat, the PRMs wheelchair must be foldable to facilitate its transport. If the PRM does not leave their wheelchair during the crossing, there are areas equipped with non-slip floors and anchors and seat belts that will ensure that the crossing takes place in appropriate security conditions.
Guide dogs travel free of charge. On board, they must be fitted with a muzzle, leash and collar, and stay with their owner.
The passenger must inform the company of their need to travel with the animal at the time of purchase or booking of the ticket. The passenger must be provided with the certificates of the animals required by the authorities, both for their departure from and for their return to Spain.
Embarking and accommodation
Regarding boarding, depending on the ship and the line, this may be before or after the rest of the passengers. In the latter case, PRM passengers and their companions may wait in the passenger-pre-boarding lounge until FRS staff tell them that they can board.
Once on board, if a PRM wishes to make the crossing in their wheelchair, a crew member will tell them the best place to do so. Otherwise, the PRM will receive assistance in taking their seat if so required.
If embarking is refused, to comply with the safety requirements imposed by the authorities or if it proves impossible to do so safely, the passenger will be given the option to choose between the right to a refund or alternative transport. Upon request, the PRM will be notified in writing of the specific reasons why he or she has not been allowed to embark.
Travelling with a companion
In cases where the PRM needs special assistance to communicate, eat, drink or go to the bathroom, they will need to make the trip with a companion.
If strictly necessary, FRS may require that a PRM be accompanied by another person capable of providing the required assistance.
In cases where the passenger does not understand the instructions of the crew that affect safety, the presence of a companion during the journey will be necessary.
On-board services
The crew have the appropriate training in this regard and are at the customers disposal to help them in whatever they need. Throughout the trip, they will ensure the PRM’s comfort and will be especially aware of what they may need.
Services on ships:
CEUTA JET
- Lift with access ramp.
- Reserved parking spaces on the car deck, adjacent to the access areas specially equipped for PRMs.
- Ramps at access doors to the passenger area from the car deck.
- Wheelchair on board.
- Folding ramp to facilitate accessibility on stairs in the passenger area.
- Toilets with alarm button.
- Caterpillar mount-stairs for wheelchair.
- Stairs alert system for people in wheelchairs.
- Seats equipped with belts and braille numbering.
- Safety standards in braille.
- KATTEGAT
- Wheelchair-accessible lift.
- Wheelchairs on board
- Wheelchair-adapted seats with anchor points.
- Toilets with alarm button.
- Reserved parking spaces on the car deck, adjacent to the lift.
TANGIER EXPRESS
- Lift with access ramp.
- Reserved parking spaces on the car deck, adjacent to the access areas specially equipped for PRMs.
- Wheelchair on board.
- Toilets with alarm button.
- Wheelchair-adapted seats with anchor points.
- Recommendations
- The travel requirements set out in this guide must be followed, otherwise FRS may not guarantee the provision of the service, although it will do its best to provide the necessary assistance and ensure boarding on an equal basis.
If there is a need to travel with a guide dog, it is recommended that the passenger be informed in advance about the requirements that, in any case, the animal must meet to make the trip and the necessary documentation that they must take with them. We recommend you consult the Moroccan and Spanish regulations regarding the admission of pets, both for departure from the country and for the return trip.
Further information
For any other additional information or query related to your trip do not hesitate to contact us through these channels that we place at your disposal:
At the following address: FRS Iberia S.L C/La Línea de la Concepción, 3, 11380 Tarifa/Cadiz (Spain). On the telephone numbers: +34 956 68-18-30/ +34 956 62-72-82/ +212 539 94 26 12/ +49 461 86 46 03 At the email address: booking.es@dfds.com
Proudly named the World’s Leading Ferry Operator
We are also proud to announce that we have been nominated as Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator 2026 and this amazing journey continues, first and foremost, thanks to you.
To our loyal passengers who put their trust in us, our valued partners and our hard-working colleagues: this nomination is also yours. You are the heart of DFDS and today, we’d like to say THANK YOU.
Let's continue to create beautiful memories and cross the finish line together.
What can we help you with?

FAQs
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) - if your question doesn't feature in this list feel free to get in touch with our customer service team.

Contact Us
DFDS customer service will be happy to help you regarding any queries or concerns. Please get in touch!

Pet Travel
You are welcome to travel with your pet onboard our ships whether you book as a foot traveller or with a vehicle.

Timetables
Find relevant information regarding departure and arrival times here.
passenger-ferries/passenger-information/check-in-and-boarding CAROUSEL 2

Ferry Terminals
More information on all our ferry terminals, port facilities and car parking.

Live travel updates
Check out our live updates and important information before your trip.

Preparing for your Trip
In this section you can find out everything you need to know to prepare for your DFDS ferry crossing.

Travelling with Kids
Enjoy our crossings with the entire family. Our ferries are equipped with all conveniences such as spacious family cabins, restaurant discounts for kids and much more.
passenger-ferries/passenger-information/accessible-travel NEW CAROUSELS 3

Onboard Information
Important information about onboard facilities, regulations and safety.

Vehicle Types
Information about vehicle types you can travel with on DFDS ferries.

Oresund Bridge Ticket Rules
Before ordering a ticket online, familiarise yourself with the Oresund Bridge ticket purchase rules.

Check-in and boarding
Ensure a smooth journey when you sail with us. Find information on check-in times, required documents, security checks, and special considerations for families and passengers with reduced mobility.
passenger-ferries/customer-service/prepare-your-trip CAROUSELS 4
passenger-ferries/customer-service/prepare-your-trip CAROUSELS 5
Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.


