A ferry is not a plane: you can usually walk around, buy coffee and step outside. But comfort depends on the ship and the ticket you chose. This checklist uses what the booking platform Ferryhopper says about ships in its network, and EU passenger rules. Always confirm for your own ship.
1. Luggage
Ferryhopper says one large piece of luggage per person is typically allowed on board and that, without an assigned seat, you keep your bags next to you and should not leave them unattended. On some ships there are luggage racks near the entrance; on others you carry everything up to the lounge.
2. Seats and cabins
On most routes you choose a seat type, not a specific seat; Ferryhopper says passengers on the same booking are usually seated together. On overnight or long crossings a cabin turns a tiring trip into a night's sleep. Accessible cabins exist on some ships but are limited, so book early if you need one.
3. Toilets
Ask where the toilets are in relation to the seating, and whether there is an accessible toilet. On a fast boat there may be few; on a large ferry there are more, but possibly a deck away from your seat.
4. Food and drink
Ferryhopper says food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, that most ferries have a snack bar and longer routes often a self-service restaurant, and that you may bring your own food and drink.
5. Travelling with a pet or an assistance dog
Pets can travel in a pet cabin, a kennel or a deck area depending on the company and the animal's size, and Ferryhopper says a pet must always have a ticket, even when it travels free. Recognised assistance dogs travel with their owner on EU services where the carrier is notified under national rules (Regulation (EU) No 1177/2010, Article 11(5)).
6. What to carry with you
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Ticket, saved offline | Ports often have weak signal (see booking vs boarding pass). |
| ID or passport | Some companies check ID at boarding; cross-border routes need the right travel document. |
| Water and a snack | Bars can have long queues on full sailings. |
| A warm layer | Air-conditioned lounges and open decks can both be cold. |
| Medicines and essentials in your hand luggage | The car deck or luggage area may be closed while sailing. |
| Written confirmation of any assistance request | Your evidence if plans change (see access questions). |