Consumer law and ferries
Buying a ferry ticket means that you have entered into a contract with a ferry company.
This contract is between the company and the passenger named on the ticket, and each person travelling with them on the same documents.
This contract gives you certain rights. But it also means that you have obligations such as arriving by the check-in time set down by the company, and having the right booking information and any immigration documentation the ferry company requires.
So carefully check the contract's terms and conditions regarding:
- Check-in times: these can vary enormously depending on whether you are travelling on foot, in a car, by coach, with a motorbike or with animals
- Travel documentation: a passport is usually specified, and if you are a non-EU national you may require a visa too
- Cancelled bookings: most ferries charge a cancellation fee, and some may only refund you with travel vouchers
- Cancellation Waiver Protection (CWP). Some ferries offer this type of cover when you book - it lets you get a refund if you cancel at quite short notice
- Any "amendment fees": if, for example, you add a passenger to your vehicle booking
- The size of your vehicle: you may have to pay a "freight tariff" if it exceeds a certain length or height (this may include the addition of roof racks, bicycles etc)
Refunds
Your contract with the ferry company should explain what refunds you are entitled to if they change the route or departure time before you board.
Their liabilities will be limited if the sailing is cancelled, delayed or diverted due to circumstances outside their control, such as a bad storm, a strike or an unforeseen technical problems.
Even in these circumstances, the company might offer you a full refund of the unused elements of your fare if you choose not to travel.
If a pre-paid facility such as onboard accommodation is unavailable or provided to a lower category, they should refund you the price difference.