This Easter getaway Dover saw more than 250,000 passengers pass through the Port making it the premier gateway of choice to mainland Europe. Not only is Dover perfect for day trippers using the shortest sea route between the UK and France, but it also offers motorists the opportunity to reach Belgium and the Netherlands on the motorways linking northern France with the rest of Europe.

Less than an hour from Calais is the Aqualud water park in Le Touquet; the Ducas Kart Racing circuit at Berck sur Mer and just over 30 minutes from Calais is the zoological park in Dunkerque. For those willing to go that little bit further there is Océade – Belgium’s premier water park in Brussels with 14 slides. With Disneyland Paris only a three hour drive away, so it’s no surprise with its selection of exciting parks, luxury hotels, famous shows and year-round offers that it is such a hit with ferry travellers.

But for those thinking of something a little quieter there are dozens of museums, castles and small adventure parks scattered across northern France and Belgium. Lille has the magnificent Musée des Beaux Arts and a newly renovated and exciting zoological park. All these attractions and amusement parks are within an easy drive from Calais with enough variety to keep even the most demanding children satisfied.

It is so easy to travel to France on a ferry from Dover – the 90 minute cross-Channel route is the UK’s most popular route to Europe with fewer restrictions than any other form of transport. Taking your vehicle from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk means you can load everything the family needs without worrying about leaving those small but important items at home. No more worries about excess baggage charges for all your equipment and those delicacies you decide to bring back on the ferry from France.

Simply turn up at the Port, check-in and then sail across to Europe in less time than it takes to check-in at a local airport and board a flight. It’s an easy decision to travel by ferry from Dover to Europe.

ENDS

Issued by Corporate Affairs on 01304 240400 (ext. 4410 from 8.30 – 17.00)

Notes to Editors

• The Port handles 13 million passengers, 2.4 million freight vehicles and £100 billion of UK/European trade.
• The Port supports 22,000 jobs, many of which are in the local community.
• It has a shared vision to protect and enhance short and long term port capacity for the nation whilst delivering the catalyst for the regeneration of Dover.
• Customers are advised to contact their chosen ferry operator before travelling and consult thePort of Dover website for the latest information.
• Visit www.doverport.co.uk for more information.