London to Ghent by Ferry: A Traveler's Guide

Taking the Ferry From London to Ghent

When planning a journey from London to Ghent, choosing the maritime route sets the tone for the entire trip. The ferry crossing itself takes 1h 25m, offering a direct and efficient sea link. While the ferry is technically just one leg of the overall transit, being out on the water transforms a standard travel day into an actual journey.

Practical Tip: When boarding vehicles, have your booking reference printed and ready on your dashboard to keep the queue moving smoothly.

Ferry vs Land Transport: Price and Time Comparison

#

As a ferry enthusiast, I always look at how the sea route stacks up against land alternatives. Here is how the numbers break down based on the exact data available for this journey:

• Ferry: $25 | 1h 25m
• Bus: $27 | 6h 35m
• Train: $136 | 2h 1m

Looking at these figures, the ferry option stands out as exceptionally economical at just $25. Compare that to the train, which costs $136 for a 2h 1m journey, and the ferry route wins on both cost and the sheer pleasure of travel. While the bus takes significantly longer at 6h 35m for $27, the ferry offers the exact same budget-friendly pricing profile at $25 while keeping the travel time down to a brisk 1h 25m.

Practical Tip: If you are prone to seasickness, take your preferred preventative medication an hour before departure rather than waiting until the vessel leaves the berth.

Is Flying a Better Option?

Sometimes people ask me why I don’t just hop on a plane. For this specific corridor, let’s look at how flying compares:

• Flight: $54 | 1h 0m

While a flight takes 1h 0m in the air, the price is more than double the ferry at $54 compared to the ferry’s $25. Furthermore, flying strips away the romance of travel. You miss out on the fresh sea air, the expansive horizon, and the freedom to walk around.

Practical Tip: Arrive at the port at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure to ensure a stress-free transition through security and boarding control.

What to Expect on Board

A short 1h 25m crossing means you will want to make the most of your time on board. As soon as I step onto the ship, I usually head straight for the upper exterior decks to catch the best angles for photography and watch the wake trail behind us.

The onboard atmosphere during this 1h 25m sailing is relaxed. You can grab a coffee, find a comfortable seat by a large window, or lean against the stern rail watching the coastline recede. Because the duration is relatively short, amenities are streamlined, focusing on comfortable seating areas and viewing points rather than overnight cabins.

Practical Tip: The aft (rear) decks generally offer the best view of the churning wake and are slightly more sheltered from the fierce headwind when the vessel reaches cruising speed.

How to Book and Get the Best Ferry Prices

Securing your ticket ahead of time is the best way to lock in the $25 rate. Since booking links are available for this route, you can easily secure your passage online before setting off toward the port.

When you book, pay close attention to whether you are travelling as a foot passenger or bringing a vehicle, as this affects your lane placement during loading. Keep your digital confirmation accessible on your phone, though I always recommend carrying a paper backup just in case your battery dies at the terminal gates.

Practical Tip: For the easiest vehicle loading experience, book your crossing during off-peak morning hours when port traffic tends to be lighter.

Practical Tips for This Ferry Route

Over years of riding ferries across various waters, I have picked up a few habits that make every trip smoother. For this specific London to Ghent connection, keep these guidelines in mind:

1. Luggage Management: Keep a small daypack with your passport, medication, and a light jacket so you don’t have to haul your main bags up the stairs from the car deck.
2. Weather Monitoring: The North Sea can be unpredictable. Check the marine forecast the night before your sailing so you know what kind of motion to expect.
3. Onboard Orientation: As soon as you board, take a quick mental note of where the nearest exit and restroom are located.

The ferry remains the most rewarding way to make this transit. At $25 for a 1h 25m crossing, it beats the train on price and beats the bus on time, all while giving you the standout experience of travelling across the water.