Brit’s are always hopping over the Channel to visit France. According to the Foreign Office, 17 million British nationals visit the country annually. Of these people, the vast majority catch the train or take a plane, but this isn’t necessarily the cheapest or most convenient way to travel.
While low cost carriers are marketed as the cheapest and most efficient way of travelling, according to a recent survey by WhichAirline.com, they’re not as cheap as you think. The survey found that the cheapest average one-way flight with one piece of checked in baggage and transfer fees included was £53.41. This top spot went to Turkey’s Pegasus Airlines, while Ryanair, commonly assumed to be the cheapest airline by UK residents, fell into fourth place with the average one-way fare totalling £70.53.
When it comes to train travel, catching the Eurostar will cost around £70 one-way, although cheaper fares can be found if booked well in advance.
However, many people forget that there is an alternative – the ferry. Brittany Ferries is one of the major operators running services between the UK and France. Foot passengers can buy one-way tickets for around £30, while travellers can also take a car full of passengers for between £79 and £119.
While the price is a major determining factor, the ferry option has numerous other benefits for travellers. Brittany Ferries has produced the infographic below to show you the differences between flying and floating over the Channel.