7 Common Mistakes Brits Make When Booking Brittany Ferries (and How to Avoid Them)

Think you’ve snagged the perfect ferry deal to France? Think again. After 15 years of crossing the Channel, I’ve seen countless British travelers make the same costly mistakes that turn their dream French getaway into a nightmare before it even begins. Let’s dive into the mistakes that could make when booking Brittany ferries and break your journey to one of France’s most beloved regions.

1. The Port Predicament – Choosing the Wrong Departure Point

Portsmouth isn’t always your best bet, even if it’s closest to home. Many Brits automatically choose Portsmouth-St Malo because it’s familiar, missing out on Plymouth-Roscoff’s faster route to western Brittany. If you’re heading to Finistère or the pink granite coast, Plymouth could save you three hours of French driving time. Plus, the morning departures from Plymouth often mean better fares and fewer crowds. Consider this: while Portsmouth might be an hour closer to London, the Plymouth route could save you valuable holiday time and fuel costs once you’re in France.

The real secret lies in understanding your final destination. For instance, if you’re heading to the medieval town of Dinan or the oyster-rich waters of Cancale, Portsmouth-St Malo is your best bet. However, for those dreaming of exploring Quimper’s timber-framed houses or Concarneau’s walled city, Plymouth-Roscoff will significantly cut your drive time and toll costs.

2. The Cabin Conundrum – Missing Out on the Best Accommodation Deals

That budget-friendly reclining seat might seem attractive, but here’s the real deal – booking a cabin can save you money. How? The night crossings include sleeping accommodation in the ticket price. By choosing a day crossing with a seat, you’ll need an extra night’s hotel in France. Do the math: a four-berth cabin split between friends often works out cheaper than individual seat tickets plus accommodation. Plus, you’ll arrive fresh and ready to explore, rather than nursing a stiff neck from trying to sleep upright.

What many travelers don’t realize is that cabin grades vary significantly. The Commodore cabins, while pricier, offer perks like priority boarding and complimentary breakfast. For families, the Deluxe cabins provide extra space and superior soundproofing – crucial for light sleepers and young children. During peak season, these premium cabins often sell out months in advance, so early booking is essential.

3. Seasonal Strategy – The Hidden Timing Trap

Everyone knows summer sailings are expensive, but few realize that sailing dates aren’t created equal. Thursdays and Sundays in July see prices spike by up to 40%. Book a Monday or Tuesday sailing instead, and you’ll often find fares slashed by a third. Even better, late June and early September offer peak-season weather without the peak-season prices. School holiday dates in France differ from the UK – use this to your advantage by booking when French families are still tied to their routines.

The sweet spot? Mid-week sailings during the shoulder season often come with unexpected perks. The ships are less crowded, the onboard restaurants have better availability, and you might even score a cabin upgrade. Local festivals like Lorient’s Festival Interceltique in August drive up prices significantly, so check Brittany’s event calendar before booking.

4. Dining Disasters – The Restaurant Reservation Oversight

Picture this: it’s 8 PM, you’re starving, and you’re staring at a “fully booked” sign outside the ship’s main restaurant. Too many travelers assume they can just walk in for dinner. The reality? Popular dinner sittings fill up fast, especially on night crossings. Book your restaurant spot when you reserve your ticket – it costs nothing extra and guarantees you won’t be stuck with vending machine snacks.

Each ship’s dining options vary significantly. Le Flora restaurant on Pont-Aven offers a sophisticated à la carte menu featuring local Breton specialties, while La Baule café provides lighter, casual fare. During peak season, self-service restaurants can get overwhelmingly busy – another reason to secure your fine dining reservation early.

5. Ship Selection Slip-ups – Not All Vessels Are Created Equal

Not all ferries in the fleet offer the same experience. The flagship Pont-Aven might cost slightly more than Armorique, but it comes with an indoor swimming pool, spa treatments, and superior entertainment options. Meanwhile, Bretagne’s recently refurbished cabins offer better value than some newer vessels. The Cap Finistère, popular on the Portsmouth-St Malo route, boasts excellent viewing decks for wildlife spotting – perfect for dolphin enthusiasts.

For families with young children, the Pont-Aven and Armorique offer dedicated play areas and regular entertainment programs. The Bretagne’s cinema shows recent releases, while the Barfleur, though smaller, provides a more intimate crossing experience. Some ships even offer pet-friendly cabins – crucial for those traveling with four-legged friends.

6. Car Deck Chaos – The Parking Predicament

Here’s a mistake that can start your holiday with hours of stress: forgetting to note your car deck location. The number of passengers frantically searching for their vehicles at arrival is staggering. Take a photo of your deck number and the nearest stairwell when you park. Better yet, download the Brittany Ferries app – it remembers your parking spot and sends you disembarkation alerts.

Height restrictions and vehicle size matter more than you might think. Larger vehicles and those with roof boxes need to book specific spaces, and these can sell out quickly during peak times. Some car decks offer easier access than others – worth considering if you’re traveling with mobility issues or young children. Pro tip: if you’re bringing bicycles, book the appropriate rack space in advance – don’t assume there’ll be room on the day.

7. Money Matters – Currency Conversion Catastrophes

The classic British blunder: assuming the on-board shop’s exchange rate matches your high street bank. The ship’s bureau de change often offers poor rates, and paying by card in pounds instead of euros triggers expensive conversion fees. Sort your euros before sailing or get a travel-friendly card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

The onboard shops often run special offers on French wines, perfumes, and local specialties. However, prices can vary significantly between ships and routes. The Pont-Aven’s shop typically offers the widest selection, while the Bretagne specializes in French wines and spirits. Remember to factor in your duty-free allowance – post-Brexit limits are strictly enforced.

Making Your Crossing Count

Remember, a ferry crossing isn’t just transport – it’s the first day of your holiday. Taking time to sidestep these common pitfalls doesn’t just save money; it transforms your journey into a genuine pleasure cruise. Consider these tips your insider’s guide to mastering the Channel crossing like a pro.

Smart Sailing Secrets

Before you book, double-check your route against your final destination in France. Research your ship’s facilities and plan accordingly. Most importantly, remember that a little preparation goes a long way in turning a simple crossing into the perfect start to your French adventure. Whether you’re heading to the historic streets of St Malo or the wild beaches of Finistère, avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your journey begins on the right note. Now that’s what I call starting your holiday in style!