The Newhaven to Dieppe ferry is the perfect gateway for motorcyclists heading to France, offering an alternative to the busy Dover routes with direct access to Normandy’s legendary riding roads. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend tour through Normandy, heading south through France, or planning an extended European motorcycle adventure, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need for a smooth crossing.
Motorcycle fares start from just £40, making this a cost-effective route to access western France, Brittany, and beyond. With secure bike storage, straightforward boarding, and excellent onboard facilities during the 4-hour crossing, it’s an ideal choice for solo riders and groups alike.
Last updated: January 2026
The Newhaven to Dieppe route offers significant advantages for motorcyclists compared to the busier Dover crossings.
🛣️ Direct Access to Normandy & Beyond
Dieppe port places you immediately on quieter roads heading into Normandy’s best motorcycling territory. Avoid the congestion around Dover/Calais and start your tour on scenic routes from the moment you disembark. Perfect access to the D-Day beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, Brittany, and routes south through the Loire Valley.
💰 Excellent Value
Motorcycle + rider: From £40 one-way
Add pillion passenger: Approximately £30-40 extra
Optional cabin: From £20 (recommended for 4-hour crossing)
Competitive pricing compared to Dover routes, with fewer hidden costs and better value when factoring in your onward journey to western France.
👥 Less Crowded Experience
Unlike the high-volume Dover-Calais route, Newhaven-Dieppe offers a more relaxed boarding and crossing experience. Shorter queues, less waiting time, and a more personal service. Popular with motorcycle touring groups and experienced riders who prefer the quieter route.
😌 Rest & Refresh During Crossing
The 4-hour crossing provides perfect time to rest between riding. Enjoy a meal, stretch your legs, review routes, or book a cabin for a quick nap. Arrive in France refreshed and ready to ride, not exhausted from the Channel Tunnel rush or a 90-minute sprint crossing.
🏍️ Motorcycle-Friendly Service
DFDS staff on the Newhaven-Dieppe route are experienced with motorcyclists. Dedicated bike parking area, careful handling, and efficient boarding procedures. Many riders report excellent experiences and return year after year for their French tours.
DFDS offers competitive motorcycle pricing on the Newhaven-Dieppe route with transparent fares.
Current Motorcycle Prices (2026)
| Ticket Type |
Price Range |
Details |
| Motorcycle + Rider (One Way) |
£40-£90 |
Varies by season/advance booking |
| Pillion Passenger |
+£30-£45 |
Per additional passenger |
| Private Cabin (Optional) |
From £20 |
2 or 4-berth cabins available |
| Return Journey |
10-20% discount |
When booking return with outbound |
Important: Prices vary significantly by season and how far in advance you book. Off-peak winter crossings start from £40, while peak summer can reach £90+ for last-minute bookings.
Bike Specifications: Standard motorcycles, touring bikes, sport bikes, adventure bikes, and cruisers all accepted. Trikes and motorcycles with sidecars also permitted (check at booking for specific pricing).
Booking for motorcyclists is straightforward and can be done online or by phone.
How to Book
- Visit DFDS Website: Go to dfds.com and select “Motorcycle” as your vehicle type
- Select Route: Choose Newhaven to Dieppe (or return)
- Choose Dates: Select your outbound and return dates
- Add Passengers: Include pillion passenger if applicable
- Consider Cabin: Add private cabin for 4-hour crossing comfort (recommended)
- Complete Booking: Pay and receive confirmation via email
Ferry Schedule
Daily Sailings: DFDS operates up to 2 sailings per day. Typical departures include morning (09:30) and evening/overnight (23:00) services.
Crossing Time: 4 hours (day sailings) to 5 hours (overnight sailings accounting for time zone)
Check-In Time: Motorcyclists should arrive 60 minutes before departure (90 minutes during peak summer)
The boarding process for motorcyclists is efficient and straightforward at Newhaven.
At Newhaven Port
Arrival: Ride directly to the ferry terminal entrance. Motorcycles have a designated check-in lane separate from cars.
Check-In: Present your booking confirmation and passport at the vehicle check-in booth. Quick process for motorcycles.
Security: Brief passport check. Motorcycle luggage may be visually inspected but rarely requires unpacking.
Waiting: After check-in, motorcycles wait in a designated holding area separate from cars. Usually comfortable shelter provided.
Boarding: Motorcycles typically board in a group, often before or after cars depending on loading sequence. Ferry staff will direct you when it’s time to board.
On the Ferry
Motorcycle Parking: Ride onto the vehicle deck where ferry staff will direct you to the motorcycle parking area. Bikes are parked together in a designated secure zone.
Securing Your Bike: Ferry staff will help secure your motorcycle with straps. Some riders prefer to provide their own tie-downs. Stand/side stand used depending on space.
Luggage: You may leave soft luggage on your bike (panniers, tank bags, tail bags) but remove any valuables, electronics, and items you’ll want during the crossing. Hard luggage can typically stay locked on the bike.
Vehicle Deck Access: You cannot access your motorcycle during the 4-hour crossing for safety reasons. Pack accordingly before heading to passenger decks.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep your helmet with you on passenger decks (don’t leave on bike). Take your riding jacket too if you want to use the outdoor deck. Bring a small bag with essentials: wallet, phone, charger, book, and any medications.
Disembarkation at Dieppe
When the ferry docks in Dieppe, an announcement will call motorcyclists to return to the vehicle deck. Follow crew directions back to your bike, remove any straps, and wait for the signal to start engines. Motorcycles usually disembark in a group, often before cars, allowing you to be first away from the port and onto French roads.
Understanding French motorcycling laws is essential before riding in France. Requirements differ from the UK.
Mandatory Requirements – You MUST Carry
- Valid Helmet (ECE 22-05 standard): Must cover entire head including ears. Half helmets illegal in France. Helmet must meet European standard ECE 22-05
- High-Visibility Vest/Jacket: MUST carry on person (not in luggage). €11 fine if not carrying, €135 if not wearing when broken down. Required for rider AND pillion passenger
- CE-Certified Gloves: Mandatory for rider and pillion since 2016. Must be CE certified. Fines apply for non-compliance
- Valid Driving Licence: UK licence accepted. Must cover the motorcycle category you’re riding
- Passport: Must have at least 3 months validity remaining beyond your departure date from France
- Insurance Documents: Valid insurance certificate/green card
- V5 Registration Document: Or VE103 for hired/rental motorcycles
- MOT Certificate: If motorcycle is over 3 years old
- GB/UK Sticker: Must display on motorcycle (magnetic stickers available)
- Headlights On: Must ride with headlights on at ALL times, day and night
- Reflective Helmet Stickers (Debatable): New helmets sold in France must have reflective strips. Foreign riders interpretation varies – many put stickers on to avoid any risk of €135 fine
French Speed Limits for Motorcycles
| Road Type |
Dry Conditions |
Wet Conditions |
| Motorways (Autoroutes) |
130 km/h (80 mph) |
110 km/h (68 mph) |
| Dual Carriageways |
110 km/h (68 mph) |
100 km/h (62 mph) |
| Main Roads (N & D roads) |
80 km/h (50 mph) |
80 km/h (50 mph) |
| Built-Up Areas |
50 km/h (31 mph) |
50 km/h (31 mph) |
Other Important Rules
- Lane Splitting: Now legal in France (as of 2025) on motorways and dual carriageways when traffic is stationary or slow-moving. Maximum speed differential of 30 km/h. Must be done between lanes safely
- Priority from Right: At unsigned intersections, traffic from the right has priority. Always give way to vehicles approaching from your right
- Alcohol Limit: 0.5g/L blood alcohol (lower than UK). Penalties severe – €135-€4,500 fines, points, possible imprisonment
- No Earphones/Headphones: Illegal to ride with any sound-emitting device in ears (including Bluetooth unless integrated into helmet). €135 fine
- Tolls: Motorcycles pay reduced toll rates (approximately 30-50% less than cars). Use designated motorcycle lanes at toll booths
- Parking: Can no longer park freely on sidewalks. Must use designated motorcycle parking bays. Fines €35-€135 for illegal parking
- Minimum Age: Must be 18+ to ride motorcycles over 125cc in France (even if licensed younger in UK)
Insurance Tip: Ensure your UK motorcycle insurance covers riding in France (most do, but check your policy). Consider European breakdown cover including motorcycle repatriation. Many standard policies exclude motorcycles over 125cc.
Dieppe port provides immediate access to some of France’s finest motorcycling territory.
D-Day Beaches Circuit
Distance: 200km round trip
Time: Full day
Visit Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église, and Pointe du Hoc. Scenic coastal roads with historical significance.
Mont Saint-Michel Loop
Distance: 350km round trip
Time: Long day or overnight
Spectacular ride to France’s iconic island abbey. Mix of coastal and inland routes through classic Norman countryside.
Alabaster Coast
Distance: 150km
Time: Half day
Stunning coastal ride to Étretat’s famous cliffs. Excellent roads through Fécamp and Le Havre with dramatic Channel views.
Brittany Exploration
Distance: 400km+ (multi-day)
Time: 2-4 days
Head west into Brittany for incredible coastal roads, medieval towns, and excellent motorcycling. Perfect for extended tours.
Why Normandy is Perfect for Motorcyclists
- Excellent road surfaces and well-maintained routes
- Varied terrain from coastal to rural countryside
- Lighter traffic than southern France
- Rich history and culture at every turn
- Excellent food and biker-friendly accommodation
- Easy access to other regions (Paris 2.5 hours, Loire Valley 3 hours)
Pack smart for your French motorcycle adventure. Here’s what you need.
Mandatory Items (Must Have)
- ✓ Valid ECE 22-05 helmet (rider + pillion)
- ✓ High-visibility vest ON YOUR PERSON (not in luggage) – rider + pillion
- ✓ CE-certified gloves (rider + pillion)
- ✓ Passport (3+ months validity)
- ✓ Driving licence
- ✓ Insurance documents/green card
- ✓ V5 registration/VE103
- ✓ MOT certificate (if bike 3+ years old)
- ✓ GB/UK sticker for motorcycle
- ✓ Headlamp beam deflectors (if required for your bike)
Highly Recommended
- • Spare bulbs and fuses
- • Basic tool kit
- • Tire repair kit and pump/compressor
- • Rain gear (waterproof jacket/trousers)
- • Thermal layer for cold/evening riding
- • Phone mount for GPS navigation
- • Portable phone charger
- • Cable lock for bike security
- • First aid kit
- • Sunglasses/sun cream
- • Earplugs (wind noise on long rides)
