Travelling from the UK to France gives you two major choices if you’re going by road:
P&O Ferries (via the Dover–Calais ferry route) or the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle (via the Channel Tunnel).
Both are popular, fast, and convenient—but the best choice depends on your priorities: price, speed, comfort, flexibility, or overall travel experience.
In this detailed comparison, we break down P&O Ferries vs Eurotunnel to help you decide which option is truly better for your next UK–France adventure.
1. Travel Time: Which Gets You There Faster?
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle
- Crossing time: 35 minutes
- Fastest way to travel between UK & France
- Minimal waiting during off-peak times
P&O Ferries
- Crossing time: 90 minutes
- Additional time required for boarding & disembarking
- Relaxed travel experience, but slower overall
Winner: Eurotunnel
If speed is your top priority, Eurotunnel is significantly faster.
2. Price Comparison: Which Is More Affordable?
P&O Ferries
- Often cheaper than Eurotunnel
- Frequent deals, early-bird discounts, and flexible pricing
- Prices vary by season and departure time
Eurotunnel
- Usually more expensive than ferries
- Premium pricing during holidays
- Cheaper options available late at night or very early morning
Winner: P&O Ferries
It typically offers more affordable fares for families, groups, and flexible travellers.
3. Onboard Experience: Comfort vs Convenience
P&O Ferries – Onboard Experience
Once onboard, you can:
- Walk around the ship
- Relax in spacious lounges
- Visit cafés, restaurants, and bars
- Shop in duty-free stores
- Enjoy sea views
- Kids’ play areas on some ships
The journey feels more like a break than transportation.
Eurotunnel – Onboard Experience
- You stay inside your vehicle throughout the journey
- No restaurants or open spaces
- Extremely practical but not scenic
Winner: P&O Ferries
Great for holidaymakers who want a relaxing start to their trip.
4. Flexibility & Frequency: Who Offers Better Schedules?
Eurotunnel
- Up to 4 departures per hour during peak
- Easy to switch to an earlier or later train (space permitting)
- Minimal waiting
P&O Ferries
- Up to 23 sailings per day
- Slightly less flexible than Eurotunnel
- Changes depend on availability and fare type
Winner: Eurotunnel
Better frequency and more seamless scheduling.
5. Pet Travel: Which Is More Pet-Friendly?
Eurotunnel
- One of the most pet-friendly travel options
- Pets stay in the car with owners
- Quick and low-stress crossing for animals
P&O Ferries
- Pets remain in the vehicle or designated pet areas
- Longer travel time (90 min) may be less ideal for anxious pets
Winner: Eurotunnel
Best choice for travelling with dogs or cats.
6. Weather Reliability: Which Handles Conditions Better?
Eurotunnel
- Underground route avoids weather disruptions
- Very reliable and consistent
P&O Ferries
- Sailings can be delayed or cancelled due to:
- High winds
- Rough seas
- Visibility issues
Winner: Eurotunnel
Far more stable during bad weather.
7. Environmental Impact
P&O Ferries
- Ships use large amounts of fuel
- Higher emissions per crossing
Eurotunnel
- Electric-powered trains
- Considered one of the greenest ways to travel to France
Winner: Eurotunnel
8. Who Should Choose P&O Ferries?
Choose P&O Ferries if you want:
✔ A relaxing, scenic journey
✔ Cheaper fares
✔ Duty-free shopping & onboard dining
✔ More space to move around
✔ A traditional travel experience
Great for:
- Families
- Holidaymakers
- Budget travellers
- People who enjoy the ferry experience
9. Who Should Choose Eurotunnel Le Shuttle?
Choose Eurotunnel if you want:
✔ The fastest travel time
✔ Minimal waiting
✔ High reliability
✔ Pet-friendly travel
✔ A convenient drive-on, drive-off experience
Best for:
- Business travellers
- Road-trippers
- Long-distance drivers
- Pet owners
- Anyone who wants speed over comfort
Final Comparison Table: P&O Ferries vs Eurotunnel
| Feature | P&O Ferries | Eurotunnel |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 90 mins | 35 mins |
| Price | Often cheaper | Usually higher |
| Comfort | High | Basic |
| Onboard Facilities | Restaurants, shops, lounges | None |
| Pet Travel | Moderate | Excellent |
| Weather Reliability | Can be affected | Very reliable |
| Scenic Views | Yes | No |
| Flexibility & Frequency | Good | Excellent |
Final Verdict: Which Is Better for Your UK–France Trip?
Both P&O Ferries and Eurotunnel offer excellent travel experiences—but they suit different types of travellers.
Choose P&O Ferries if you want:
- A relaxing, scenic journey
- Lower prices
- Onboard dining & duty-free shopping
- A holiday-like start to your trip
Choose Eurotunnel if you value:
- Speed and efficiency
- Weather-proof travel
- Pet-friendly convenience
- High reliability and frequent departures
Bottom line:
- For comfort and affordability → P&O Ferries
- For speed and reliability → Eurotunnel Le Shuttle