by Rachelle de Bretagne

Created on: July 15, 2009

Brittany Ferries had the monopoly for many years over voyages from mainland UK ports of Plymouth and Portsmouth to France and Spain. With the arrival of budget air flights, the monopoly has been diminished, although passengers wishing to travel with their vehicles still need to take advantage of the offers presented by Brittany Ferries. In peak times, the fares are high, though there are ways you can save money on standard crossings without detracting from the quality of the trip.

*Out of season tickets.

*Booking in advance.

*Checking out both the French and English websites.

*Looking for promotional packages.

*Where you can make economies.

*Joining the club.

Our of season tickets.

The seasons are clearly marked on Brittany Ferry website. If you can manage to arrange your voyage outside of seasonal highs you can save a fortune. It is worthwhile planning in advance to avoid disappointment, but it should be noted that out of season weather in France can be every bit as agreeable as that in peak season.

Booking in advance.

Often better fares are available to those passengers who book in advance. There is more choice of crossings and the ticket seeker is able to navigate their way around different times and days to secure the best prices. Beware that it costs extra to have cancellation insurance but that it is worth the couple of extra Pounds to have this available.

Checking out both French and English sites.

The layout of both sites is very similar and you really do not need to understand French to get a good deal. Type in similar requirements in both the English site and the French site simultaneously and you will be shocked at the differences in price which are available, booking the most advantageous and changing the date criteria on both to secure good prices.

Looking for promotional packages.

During peak times, there are always special offers. Be aware of these and never be afraid to ask Brittany Ferry staff at their ports, since they will have details of special prices available. Newspapers in the UK often have coupons as well for very cheap crossings. It is worthwhile checking these out.

Where you can make economies.

On a night crossing, you are expected to book some kind of accommodation. Whether this is a reclining seat or a cabin, it costs more money. If you are able to book your crossings on daytime ferries you will save money because you will not need the accommodation offered. The bonus with these crossings is that you can secure a cabin for the day for a very small token price, so your travel can be comfortable even though it is a day crossing.

Joining the club.

Brittany ferries do special deals for people who use crossings regularly. If you have a secondary house in France, or run gites, it is worthwhile finding out about the benefits, since customers who are in the Home Owner's club can make great savings.

Brittany Ferries are not so sure of their monopoly given the introduction of budget flights. Take advantage and do check out the possibilities shown above, and enjoy your voyage with Brittany Ferries, spending the money you saved on fares on the enjoyment of your holiday.

Learn more about this author, Rachelle de Bretagne.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.