Ferry best way to travel
Sarah Marshall avoids airport woe with sea crossings
Whether it’s the gentle rocking of waves, the taste of salty air, or the sight of land disappearing into the distance – there’s something about stepping on to a boat that instantly transports you into holiday mode. But along with providing an enjoyable means of transport, ferries can also be the cheapest and most efficient means of reaching a destination – particularly during this summer of aviation chaos. Combine ferry travel with a stay on a campsite or holiday park, and it’s still possible to have a week’s family getaway for less than £500. Here’s a look at some top options…
Isles of Scilly
Why? Beautiful beaches and exotic gardens give the impression these tiny islands have been transplanted from the Indian Ocean.
Where to stay: Although it’s not possible to bring a car, it’s easy to move around main island St Mary’s. The Garrison campsite can collect guests and their luggage. A selection of Readi-Tents is available for hire, although the cheapest option is to bring your own gear and rent a plot from £15pp per night (kids half price).
How: The Scillonian III sails from Penzance to St Mary’s from March to November, taking two hours and 45 minutes each way. A standard adult ticket costs £65.95 return. Visit islesofscilly-travel.co.uk
Normandy, France
Why? Beaches are big and sandy, the sea is warmer than the Atlantic, and there’s lots to see, including Bayeux and Mont St Michel.
Where to stay: Siblu’s Domaine de Litteau holiday village (siblu.co.uk), less than an hour from the ferry port at Caen, is packed with familyfriendly facilities. Prices start from £612 for a family of four for seven nights from August 20.
How: Brittany-ferries.co.uk runs from Portsmouth to Caen from £585 rtn, for a car and four people.
Netherlands
Why? Fields filled with tulips and beaches backed by dunes and big open skies make Holland perfect for family getaways.
Where to stay: The Roompot Vakantiepark De Berkenhorst in Gelderland, about an hour from Amsterdam, has excellent reviews. Set in a forest by a lake, it offers activities including mini golf, volleyball and hiking. A three-night stay for four this summer starts from around €400/£345.
How: Stenaline.co.uk runs from Harwich to the Hook of Holland from £134.50 for a family of four and car.
Isle of Wight
Why? The most award-winning beaches in the country and a fine microclimate that has attracted visitors since Victorian times.
Where to stay: The Old Mill Holiday Park in St Helens features cabins, lodges, caravans and holiday homes. Spend days walking, cycling, sea fishing, wind surfing, horse riding, or bird watching. An Elite mobile home sleeping four costs from £610 for a seven-night stay at the end of August, including ferry travel with Wightlink.
How: Wightlink.co.uk runs from Portsmouth to Fishbourne from £35.50 rtn for a car and four people.