If you want to travel with a pet on a ferry today, it’s important to choose an “approved” pet carrier (i.e., one that complies with ferry company rules and is practical for the crossing) and to know the new 2026 general guidelines: here’s an overview with current regulations, what ferry operators are looking for, and some recommended models.
Rules and requirements for transporting animals on ferries (2026)
In Europe, to travel with animals (dogs, cats, rabbits, etc.) the provisions of Regulation (EU) 576/2013 for transportation between EU countries apply.
- Each animal must travel with DOCUMENTATION in good standing: EU animal passport (with microchip, vaccinations – especially rabies shots – and health certificate)
- When you book your ferry ticket, it is mandatory to declare the presence of your pet.
- The carrier must be approved for ferry transport of animals, sturdy, lockable, and suitable to ensure the safety of the animal while underway.
Regulations for boarding pets on board ferries
Boarding arrangements vary Depending on the animal and weight/size:
- Small animals (such as cats, small dogs) → can travel in passenger areas, as long as they are in an appropriate carrier.
- Larger dogs/medium/large animals → generally must travel in garage/vehicle area or dedicated areas (pet-deck/kennel/”pet booth
Rules of conduct to be observed on board the ferry
On the ship, regulations, usually based on common sense and safety rules on board, must be followed. Basically leash and muzzle, no disturbing noises, and whoever soils cleans up (the handler).
- Dogs kept on leash + muzzle when circulating on outside decks.
- Animals in carrier/keeper throughout the crossing, unless housed in kennel/cabin
Can I board pets on the ferry even if I travel on foot?
- If you are traveling alone as a passenger (on foot, without a car), check if the company accepts “foot passenger ” animals-not all do, or require dedicated kennels.
Which carrier to choose for traveling by ferry?
To summarize: the carrier must be sturdy, tightly closed, suitable for the animal’s weight/size, and accompanied by all health documentation; reservations for the animal must be made in advance; and on board you must adhere to restrictions on where the animal can stay (cabin, deck, garage) depending on size.
Some “approved / suitable” ferry carriers (and to consider)
Here are some well-reviewed carrier models suitable for ferry travel-some more practical for small animals, others sturdy for crossings/ferries:
- Bama Carrier Tour–a “classic” carrier for dogs, cats, and small mammals; simple, inexpensive, and suitable for car or ferry travel if they respect the dimensions.
- Kerbl Transporter Expedion Eco – basic and functional model, good for short trips or ferry travel with small/medium sized animals.
- Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier – sturdy carrier designed for long trips or changing conditions: useful if the crossing is demanding or lasts many hours.
- Sherpa Delta Deluxe Carrier – very versatile, rigid construction and secure closure; useful if you are looking for an “official” carrier for travel and crossings, although initially designed for air travel.
- Sixties Tv Carrier – carrier with curious and comfortable design for small animals (cats/small dogs); especially suitable for short/medium range travel.
- Ibiyaya Hug Pack Small Dog Carrier – lightweight and breathable, attractive for small dogs or cats, especially on short crossings or as a portable.
- K9 Sport Sack AIR 2 – backpack carrier for small/medium size dogs: useful if you plan walking + ferry + hiking trips.
- K9 Sport Sack Urban 3 Dog Carrier – versatile and more “urban” solution: can serve both as a carry-on backpack and as a dog carrier for multi-camp trips (car + ferry + land).
Practical tips for choosing and using a carrier on ferry
- Check size and sturdiness: it must be able to close securely and hold the animal safely-very important if the journey is long or if weather conditions are difficult (waves, humidity).
- Choose according to your pet’s size: if small → “standard” carrier / backpack; if medium / large → sturdy model or kennel / rigid cage.
- Make sure you have documentation: microchip, animal passport, vaccination booklet (and especially rabies shots)-many ferry companies require it at check-in.
- Reserve the place for the animal in advance, indicating the presence of the animal during the ferry reservation.
- Abide by the rules on board: leash + muzzle if you take the dog out of the carrier; avoid letting the animal into enclosed common areas, non “pet” cabins, restaurants, etc.
Book the ferry with FerryFinder for you and your pet
When you use a service like ferryfinder.com to book a ferry you are always sure you are making the right and most convenient choice for you and your four-legged friend:
- Be sure to select “pet/pet travel” when booking.
- Check the policies of the ferry company you choose-not all routes accept pets, or may require kennels/garages.
- Choose a sturdy, well-sealable pet carrier suitable for your pet’s weight/size (see examples above).
- Bring all vaccinations/documents/animal passport up to date.
- When traveling: keep your pet in a carrier or permitted area, respect hygiene and safety, take regular breaks if the crossing is long.
- RV travel? this might be the best solution!
At this point, having cleared up any doubts about choosing the best carrier to transport your pet aboard the ferry, all that is left for you to do is to choose your destination and book with FerryFinder
