Family-Friendly Ferry Routes: Why P&O is Perfect for Kids

Travelling with kids doesn’t have to mean stress, delays, or cramped airplane seats. If you’re planning a family getaway, P&O Ferries offers one of the most enjoyable and child-friendly ways to travel across the UK and Europe. With spacious cabins, onboard entertainment, and the freedom to move around, ferry travel transforms the journey into part of the holiday adventure.

Here’s why P&O Ferries is the perfect choice for families — and some of the top routes to explore with kids in tow.


🚢 Why Families Love P&O Ferries

1. Spacious and Comfortable Travel

Unlike air travel, ferries give families space to breathe. Kids can walk around, play in designated areas, or relax with a snack in hand — no seatbelts or tantrums required.

Bonus: Many routes offer private cabins for rest, naps, or simply some family quiet time.


2. Onboard Entertainment for All Ages

P&O Ferries are packed with things to keep children entertained during the journey:

  • Soft play zones and kids’ entertainment on select routes
  • Onboard cinemas and activity booklets
  • Seasonal live shows or character appearances during holidays

No need to bring the iPad — there’s plenty to explore on board.


3. Kid-Friendly Dining Options

Picky eaters? No problem. P&O’s restaurants and snack bars offer a variety of child-approved meals, including healthy options and treats. Many ships also provide kids’ menus and high chairs for toddlers.


4. Stress-Free Car Travel

Travelling by ferry means you can take your own car, complete with toys, snacks, strollers, and everything else a parent needs. No baggage restrictions, no long check-in queues — just drive on and go.


5. Great Value for Families

P&O often runs family offers, such as kids travel free promotions or discounted meal packages, making it an affordable way to explore new destinations without blowing the budget.


🌍 Top Family-Friendly Routes with P&O Ferries

🚗 Dover to Calais (England to France)

Duration: ~90 minutes
A fast and fun way to hop over to France. Perfect for families heading to Disneyland Paris, Normandy beaches, or European road trips. Onboard, kids can stretch their legs and enjoy the sea breeze before the adventure even begins.


🚢 Hull to Rotterdam (Netherlands)

Duration: Overnight
This route turns travel into a mini cruise. Cabins, entertainment, and meals make the overnight journey fun and relaxing. Kids wake up refreshed and ready to explore Holland’s family attractions like the Rotterdam Zoo or Efteling theme park.


🌉 Liverpool to Dublin (Ireland)

Duration: ~8 hours
Explore the natural beauty of Ireland with a relaxing crossing that feels like a short holiday itself. Great for countryside drives, castles, and family-friendly Irish hospitality.


🌊 Cairnryan to Larne (Scotland to Northern Ireland)

Duration: ~2 hours
An ideal short ferry trip for a family break across the Irish Sea. Visit the Giant’s Causeway, Belfast Zoo, or explore Game of Thrones filming locations with older kids.


💡 Tips for Travelling with Kids on P&O Ferries

  • Book a cabin in advance for overnight routes or longer journeys
  • Arrive early to explore the ship and find your spot
  • Pack snacks, games, and spare clothes just in case
  • Check ahead for kids’ entertainment schedules and meal offers

Why P&O Makes Family Travel Easy

With flexible routes, friendly service, and kid-focused facilities, P&O Ferries takes the stress out of travelling with children. From the moment you board to the moment you arrive, your family is in good hands — and the journey becomes just as exciting as the destination.


Ready to plan your next family adventure?
Visit POferries.com to explore routes, offers, and kid-friendly tips.