Boarding Ferry

[john_5042169]

I have just purchased a twin axle, all 7.5m of it and I am concerned at problems I may encounter when boarding a channel ferry. Can anbody advise if they have ever experienced problems when crossing the ramp from the shore to the ferry and vice versa with regards to the rear overhang of a similar sized caravan.

Yor help as always will be much appreciated.

John D

 

[Mac2]

Hi John,

Never had a problem on any ferry in 12 years.

 

[Mac2]

Hi John,

I have a twin axel and have never had a problem on any ferry in 12 years.

 

[Lutz]

I've scraped the ramp with my 7m caravan on some smaller ferries but never on a cross Channel one.

 

[petercoachman]

hi john never had a prolem ours is only single axel 6m van we have several freinds with larger twin axel vans no problems, even brittany ferries from portsmouth steep ramp don't worry they won't let you hold up loading

 

[GrahamF.]

John, you should have no problem on any of the cross channel Ferries these days. All Ports used by the major ferry companies have fully adjustable ramps which can be aligned pretty well to coincide with the state of the tide. This said, I always exercise extreme caution when driving over the actual connecting ramp just in case you do get a bit of heave or fall...... it does happen and if prepared you should not encounter any damage at all.

Have a good trip

Graham F

 

[stephen_5065465]

John, you should have no problem on any of the cross channel Ferries these days. All Ports used by the major ferry companies have fully adjustable ramps which can be aligned pretty well to coincide with the state of the tide. This said, I always exercise extreme caution when driving over the actual connecting ramp just in case you do get a bit of heave or fall...... it does happen and if prepared you should not encounter any damage at all.

Have a good trip

Graham F

I recently travelled on north sea ferries hull/zeebrugge and pulled a big foot off while boarding a steward retrieved it and i fitted it back on rear right leg. caughjust where ramps met.No problem on return journey.This was on Compass Rallye 634 at 8.13 mtrs. long!

 

[Simon_5041575]

I am a loading officer on a cross channel ferry. It is very rare to see any problems.

The problems I have seen are incorrect jockey wheel stowage (too low).

Incorrect outfit loading, car heavy at the back and van at the front causing sagging.

During times of bad weather there may be movement between ship and ramp. Just drive slowly and drive diagonally across the ramp.

 

[Chris4]

I have a twin axle with a motor mover mounted on the front axle. This arrangement might cause problems as the mover is quite near to the ground. If your worried, go slow, get out of the car if necessary and have a look. Usually there's someone on hand to help. If you have a problem ask for another ramp to be laid down to bridge the problem area. Ignore all who complain, remember it's your toy, your holiday and it's all very expensive. Doubt whether the ferry company will pay if you get into trouble. Having said that, I went to France for the first time this year. Although it was close we had no problems. SO forget about it and enjoy your hols, hope you have a great time. We did - we're booking again for next year ust as soon as we can