VoilaFerry

Travelling with a pet by ferry: full guide

Travelling by ferry with your dog or cat is entirely possible on most Mediterranean crossings. The majority of operators accept pets, provided you declare the animal when you book and choose an accommodation option: an on-board kennel, or a carrier held on a lead. The price depends on the animal's size and the route, and is sometimes free. For crossings to the Maghreb (Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco), an EU pet passport or a health certificate plus an up-to-date rabies vaccination are essential. This guide walks you through every step, from paperwork to choosing the right accommodation, so you can travel with your companion with peace of mind.

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What accommodation options exist for my pet?

When you book, two options are offered depending on the operator and the route. The kennel (KENNEL) is a dedicated on-board space where your pet travels in a cage provided by the ship. The carrier on a lead (PET_CARRIER_ON_LEAD) lets you keep the animal close to you, in a transport bag or held on a lead according to on-board rules. Important: a kennel is not compatible with a cabin booking. If you reserve a cabin, the pet automatically switches to the carrier-on-lead option. Choose the option that suits your companion's size and the comfort you want during the crossing.

How much does it cost to take my dog or cat?

The pet fare depends on two things: size (classed by weight) and the route. There are three categories: small (up to 6 kg), medium (6 to 25 kg) and large (over 25 kg). A cat or small dog usually falls into the small category, a labrador into large. Depending on the operator and route, the crossing may be free or charged a small supplement. The exact price appears as soon as you add the pet to your booking: that is the only way to get the real fare and to make sure the operator's rules apply to your specific crossing.

What documents does my pet need?

For an intra-European crossing, your dog or cat needs an EU pet passport showing identification (microchip) and a valid rabies vaccination. For crossings to the Maghreb — Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco — requirements are stricter: a recent health certificate and an up-to-date rabies vaccine are mandatory, sometimes with an antibody titration test. Prepare these documents well before departure, because the vaccination must respect a minimum waiting period after the injection. Check with your vet and the authorities of the destination country to avoid any unpleasant surprise at boarding.

How do I book a crossing with my pet?

The golden rule: add the pet directly during booking, never afterwards. By declaring it, you get the correct fare, the right accommodation option and the assurance that the operator's rules apply. Each pet must be linked to an adult passenger on the booking, who is responsible for it during the crossing. Specify the type of animal (dog or cat), its size by weight and the option you want. If pet places are limited on the route, declaring early secures availability. This way you avoid any boarding refusal and travel with complete peace of mind.

Can my pet stay with me during the crossing?

It depends on the option chosen and the ship. With the carrier on a lead, your pet stays nearby, in certain permitted areas of the vessel, which reassures anxious companions. With the kennel, it travels in a dedicated on-board space that you can usually visit during the crossing. If you book a cabin, the kennel option isn't available: your pet then travels on the carrier-on-lead basis, often with you in the cabin depending on the operator's rules. Always check the operator's exact conditions, which vary from one route and one ship to another.

Frequently asked questions

Can I travel by ferry with my dog?
Yes, most Mediterranean operators accept dogs. You choose between an on-board kennel or a carrier on a lead, depending on the animal's size and the route. Declare your dog when booking to get the exact fare and to secure the conditions.
Do I have to pay to bring my pet?
It depends on the operator and the route: the crossing may be free or charged a small supplement, based on the animal's size (small, medium or large, by weight). The real price appears as soon as you add the pet to your booking.
What documents are needed for a crossing to Tunisia or Algeria?
For Maghreb crossings (Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco), a health certificate and an up-to-date rabies vaccination are mandatory, along with the animal's identification. Prepare these documents in advance, as the vaccine must respect a minimum waiting period.
Can my pet stay in the cabin with me?
If you book a cabin, the kennel option isn't available: the pet travels in a carrier held on a lead, often with you in the cabin depending on the operator's rules. Check the operator's exact conditions before you book.
How do I book a ferry with my cat?
Add your cat directly during booking, linking it to an adult passenger. Specify its size by weight (usually the small category, up to 6 kg) and choose the accommodation option. The fare and rules then apply automatically.

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