If you’re looking for a more cost-effective way to soak up the sun, taking a DFDS ferry or cruise could be the perfect solution. With so many destinations reachable by boat from the UK – namely Jersey, Amsterdam and France – it’s a great alternative to flying. We’ve found the best ways to save on your next channel crossing or cruise holiday with DFDS. Keep scrolling for our money-saving tips and tricks.
What to know before searching for a DFDS deal
Here are some tips from our deals experts to consider before searching for a DFDS voucher code:
- Route-specific special offers: Many DFDS promotions apply only to certain routes or destinations, so be sure to factor this in when planning your trip.
- Know when to book: By selecting off-peak times (such as avoiding school holidays), booking in advance or travelling on weekdays, you could save up to 50 per cent on your booking.
- Use the DFDS cheap fare finder: Enter your route and travel dates and let the fare finder do the hard work. It'll find you the best deals, so you can find more flexible savings.
- Look for partner discounts: If you’re an AA, Angling Trust or English Heritage member, you are eligible for exclusive DFDS partner discounts. For example, English Heritage members can save up to 33 per cent on ferries, which is significantly higher than the average 15 per cent discount offered to all customers.
- Book directly with DFDS: Save an additional 10 per cent on your booking if you find a lower price elsewhere. The DFDS best price guarantee can be claimed within 24 hours of making your booking.
Ways to save at DFDS
DFDS offers
As mentioned previously, most discounts at DFDS are specific to routes. Regardless of whether you are planning to book a ferry, mini cruise or package holiday, the offers page has plenty to help you save on your travel. The DFDS autumn sale is currently running with the following highlights:
- 50 per cent off Amsterdam mini cruises.
- 50 per cent off Amsterdam city breaks
- 20 per cent off Jersey short breaks.
- 15 per cent off ferries to France and the Netherlands.
Alternatively, you could sign up for the DFDS newsletter and get deals delivered straight to your inbox. It is the easiest way to stay up to date on DFDS promo codes, competitions and news updates.
DFDS student and over 60 discounts
DFDS offers a 20 per cent discount on selected routes for students aged 18 to 27, young people aged 18 to 25 and seniors over 60. For example, right now there is 20 per cent off sailings from Newhaven to Dieppe. To take advantage of these savings, simply verify your eligibility and present a valid ID at the port.
Multi-trip package deals
DFDS multi-trip packages are ideal for those who travel frequently. Here are the different packages available:
- Bronze: From £69 per car (one way) and includes three to four return trips or six to nine single trips. With no extras included, it’s ideal for occasional travellers looking for basic savings.
- Silver: From £67 per car (one way) and includes five to eight return trips or ten to 17 single trips. You’ll get transferable tickets and a pet travel discount. This option is great for flexible, pet-friendly travel.
- Gold: From £65 per car (one way) and includes nine to 11 return trips or 18 to 23 single trips. This also includes transferable tickets, pet travel discount and priority boarding – perfect for frequent travellers who want speed and convenience.
- Platinum: From £63 per car (one way) and includes 12+ return trips or 24+ single trips. This comes with all the perks, such as transferable tickets, pet discount, priority boarding and premium lounge access. This is the best value for regular DFDS travellers.
Duty-free shopping and on-board spend vouchers
Don't forget to browse DFDS's duty-free shops onboard and at ports including Calais and Dunkerque. You can save up to 50 per cent compared to UK high street prices on items such as spirits, perfumes, Lego and confectionery. For added convenience, use the reserve and collect service to shop online before your trip and pick up your purchases before you sail.
What to know before booking
Cancellation Policy
DFDS cancellation policies vary depending on your ticket type and route, so we highly recommend double-checking before you book. For example, for Dover to Calais/Dunkirk routes, economy tickets are non-refundable, whereas premium tickets can be cancelled up to 48 hours before departure.
All refund requests must be made in writing within three months of the cancellation date.
Information for families
If you’re travelling with children, you’re in luck. Most DFDS routes offer child-friendly entertainment, such as treasure hunts, face-painting and play areas with mascots like Jack the pirate . Plus, children under three travel and dine free of charge, without needing their own seat or bed. Don’t forget to check out the DFDS offers page for regular family-specific discounts.
DFDS pet policy
Your furry friends are also welcome on board DFDS crossings. As a part of the DEFRA Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), travelling abroad with dogs and other pets is made straightforward and stress-free.
Booking as a group
Large groups can save with DFDS’s group vehicle saver offer and get 10 per cent off when booking 10 or more cars or bikes on routes such as Newcastle to Amsterdam and Dover to France. Extra benefits include paying a 25 per cent deposit upon booking, with the remaining balance due eight weeks before departure.
DFDS FAQs
How we choose the best DFDS discount codes
The Independent’s expert team of deal hunters is dedicated to finding you the best offers, deals and discounts. From best-selling products that we know our readers love to experiences for the whole family, we’re always searching for new ways to help you save more of your hard-earned cash.
Why you can trust us
Our team uses their years of experience in sourcing bargains to bring you the best possible discounts. By tracking the prices of products throughout the year, we’re able to bring you the best deals from tried-and-tested brands we love and trust.
For even more bargains, check out our dedicated deals section
Tui discount codes for 2025/2026 – get £300 off in June
easyJet holidays discount codes for June 2025 – save £200 or more
Away Resorts discount codes for June 2025: Save 10% this summer
Trainline promo codes for June 2025 – how to get 61% off tickets
Expedia discount codes for June 2025 – exclusive 6% off all hotels
5 ways to save hundreds of pounds on a cruise, according to experts
