Ferries

Planning a trip to the Nürburgring, the iconic racetrack nestled in the scenic Eifel mountains of Germany, is an exciting endeavor. For UK travelers, one of the first questions that arises is how best to get there. While options like flying or driving through the Eurotunnel are popular, taking the ferry from the UK to France offers a unique blend of advantages that can enhance your journey. This article explores why taking the ferry is not only a practical choice but an enjoyable part of the Nürburgring experience.

1. Convenience of a Relaxing Journey

The ferry ride across the English Channel is a leisurely way to start the trip. Unlike the hustle and bustle of airports or the rigidity of the Eurotunnel, ferries provide a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind, enjoy onboard facilities, and prepare for the drive ahead.

• Break from Driving: After leaving the UK, the ferry ride gives you a chance to rest before the extended drive from Calais to Nürburgring, which takes about four to five hours. Unlike driving through the tunnel, ferry passengers can step away from the car, stretch their legs, and even take a nap.
• Comfortable Amenities: Modern ferries, like those operated by DFDS and P&O, offer a range of facilities including comfortable lounges, restaurants, and even private cabins. For car enthusiasts or families with children, these amenities can make the journey far more pleasant.
• Fuel Up and Refresh: Onboard, you’ll have time to grab a meal, a cup of coffee, or even shop for essentials and souvenirs in duty-free shops. This flexibility means you arrive in France feeling refreshed and ready for the drive to the Nürburgring.

2. Cost-Effectiveness and Flexibility

In many cases, taking the ferry is a cost-effective option, especially when compared to the price of flights or the Eurotunnel during peak seasons.

• Affordable Rates for Cars: Ferries often have flexible pricing for vehicles, which can accommodate everything from a small car to a larger van for a group road trip. Booking in advance or taking advantage of off-peak travel times can lead to substantial savings.
• Lower Fuel and Travel Costs: Driving to Dover and taking the ferry can be more economical than crossing the channel by train or flying. When you factor in additional baggage costs and rental fees if flying, ferry travel is especially advantageous if you’re taking your own car, a must-have for many Nürburgring visitors who plan to lap the track in their own vehicle.
• Multiple Ferry Routes and Departure Times: From the UK, there are several ports offering crossings to France, including Dover to Calais and Newhaven to Dieppe. With numerous departure times, it’s easy to find a schedule that suits your itinerary, giving you more flexibility for both departure and return dates.

3. Smooth Travel with Your Own Car

One of the primary reasons to take the ferry is the convenience of driving your own car to the Nürburgring. For any car enthusiast, the journey is almost as important as the destination, and the ability to bring your vehicle adds a new level of excitement.

• Easier Vehicle Transport: Unlike flights, where you’d need to arrange a separate rental car or pay extra for car transportation, ferries allow you to simply drive onboard with your own car. This eliminates the need for additional rentals, paperwork, and logistics.
• No Baggage Restrictions: Unlike flights with baggage limits, ferry travel lets you bring along all your gear, including any tools, safety equipment, or spare parts. You won’t have to worry about restrictions on the number of bags or weight limits for essentials, like spare tires, tools, and even camping equipment for a true Nürburgring adventure.
• Perfect for Road Trip Enthusiasts: The drive from Calais to Nürburgring is a picturesque journey through France, Belgium, and into Germany, with plenty of scenic countryside and stops along the way. Bringing your own car allows you to take advantage of this road trip, setting your own pace and exploring interesting places en route to the track.

4. Environmental Impact

For eco-conscious travelers, taking the ferry can be a greener choice than flying or taking the Eurotunnel. Ferry travel generally has a lower carbon footprint than flights, and many ferry companies are investing in eco-friendly technologies.

• Lower Emissions Compared to Flying: Ferries, while still contributing to emissions, are typically less environmentally taxing than planes. If you’re conscious about reducing your environmental impact, the ferry is a better choice.
• Eco-Friendly Ferry Options: Many ferry operators are adopting sustainable practices, including energy-efficient engines and waste-reduction programs. By choosing ferry travel, you’re supporting efforts to make cross-channel travel greener and more sustainable.

5. The Scenic Journey Adds to the Experience

The ferry option allows you to add a scenic element to your Nürburgring trip. Instead of bypassing everything in a tunnel or rushing through an airport, you can enjoy the views from the ferry, take in the fresh sea air, and ease into your journey with a sense of anticipation.

• Views of the Channel: The trip across the English Channel is scenic, offering views of the iconic white cliffs of Dover and the open sea. This adds a memorable aspect to the start of your adventure.
• Stop-Off Opportunities in France: The ferry takes you into northern France, opening up the possibility for scenic detours or brief stop-offs along the way. Travelers can explore local towns, try French cuisine, or spend a night in one of the quaint towns like Lille or Namur before heading to Germany.

6. Creating a Shared Adventure with Fellow Enthusiasts

Taking the ferry is also a great way to meet fellow car enthusiasts on their way to the Nürburgring. Car clubs and Nürburgring groups often prefer the ferry because it allows for group travel, which can turn the journey into a shared experience.

• Meet Other Nürburgring Travelers: Ferry rides tend to attract like-minded people heading to the same destination, especially for big events at the Nürburgring. Sharing stories, tips, and excitement with others can enhance your journey.
• Group Packages and Discounts: For clubs or groups traveling together, ferries offer special group rates, making it more affordable and enjoyable. It’s a chance to begin the camaraderie before reaching the Nürburgring, making the entire trip more social and memorable.

7. Enhanced Safety and Control Over Your Travel Plans

Finally, ferry travel provides a level of control and security that is often lacking in other modes of transportation. You aren’t limited by airline schedules or subjected to last-minute delays as much as you might be with flights.

• Greater Flexibility in Travel Plans: If you need to reschedule or adjust your travel plans, it’s usually simpler to do so with a ferry booking than with a flight. Ferries also tend to have fewer security procedures than airports, allowing for a quicker and more convenient boarding process.
• Peace of Mind with Your Vehicle: When you’re bringing your own car, there’s less risk of damage or unexpected fees than if you had to rely on a rental. You also have control over what you bring, how you travel, and your schedule.

Conclusion

Taking the ferry from the UK to France for a trip to the Nürburgring is an excellent choice, offering a blend of relaxation, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. The journey itself becomes a memorable part of the adventure, allowing you to savor every stage of the trip. For those passionate about driving, starting the trip in your own car and hitting the open road from Calais to the Nürburgring can make the entire experience richer. From the scenic ferry crossing to the picturesque drive, there’s no doubt that taking the ferry elevates the journey, making it a more enjoyable, practical, and environmentally friendly way to reach one of the world’s most celebrated racing destinations.