Bikers love the roar of the engine and the wind in their faces and there is no better way to experience that than a ferry to France or a European motorcycle road trip and now it’s time to start planning.
Once you have checked your insurance with Bikesure, including motorcycle breakdown cover, and spent some time servicing your bike, there are a number of simple and quite cheap ways of travelling to the continent for your wonderful European motorcycle road trip or a quick ferry to France.
France is usually a convenient first stop being just across the water. It offers some great scenic rides and is the gateway to the rest of Continental Europe.
Two main options: ferry or Eurotunnel?
There are two main options for taking your bike across to France for a European motorcycle road trip, by ferry or by Eurotunnel. But which is better?
There’s only one way to find out… Bikesure, the freethinking motorbike specialists, have compared the options to help you decide which route is best for you.
How long does it take to get to Calais?
The shortest ferry journey with P&O Ferries from Dover to Calais, takes around 1 ½ hours. Whereas using the Eurotunnel only takes 35 minutes to get from Folkstone to Calais. Although the tunnel is much quicker, you are free to roam around on the ferry so you could relax with a coffee, grab something to eat and plan your route.
How much are the cross channel ferry prices?
Going to France via Eurotunnel on Le Shuttle can cost you as little as £12 each way, if you are clever about when you book your crossing. The real beauty of Eurotunnel is that it gives you direct motorway to motorway access so you will be out on the open road much quicker. The ferry crossing will be more leisurely and there may be hold-ups at the port either side of the English channel, but the cost is even more competitive. However you plan to get to the Continent, it’s recommended that you book well in advance to get the best deals.
Security
With the Eurotunnel you are with your bike for the entire journey. Simply park it up and stretch your legs. This contrasts to the ferry, as you are not with your bike, however, large cargo straps are provided to tie the bike down. It is also worth taking some additional security measures for while you are travelling. It’s probably worth investing in a brake disc lock which you can use on the ferry and when you park up on your travels.
Comfort
The Eurotunnel holders have been designed with cars in mind so there is only the floor for sitting. It’s not particularly comfortable but remember the journey is only 35 minutes. Going by ferry is more comfortable. You can explore the ferry, get some fresh air on deck, catch 40 winks, dine or browse in the gift shops.
Verdict
Although there are advantages and disadvantages to travelling by ferry and Eurotunnel, the ferry just has it. It may be a longer journey but can work out cheaper and you have the option to move around and see where you are going.
The ferry to France is not the only option for your road trip
Consider a longer crossing, such as Newhaven to Dieppe, Hull to Rotterdam or even Plymouth to Santander in Spain. The longer crossing will cost you more but it can be treated like a mini cruise giving you more time to relax and shave precious time off the ride to your final destination when you reach the other side.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the choice of routes to take, try using motowhere.com to help you plan your trip.
Bon voyage!
