Dover ferry passengers hit by delays after IT issues

Ferry passengers getting home for Christmas from Dover face delays of up to one hour after French border controls were hit by IT issues.

The border began experiencing technology issues before peak traffic arrival on Saturday morning.

Port of Dover Travel said in a post on X, at 9.21am, that there were still ongoing issues which were resulting in delays. It later confirmed delays were still ongoing at 12.02pm.

The organisation, which has not since issued an update, also urged passengers not to arrive more than two hours before their ferry leaves.

The Port of Dover estimates nearly 30,000 cars will board for outward journeys during the festive period, with traffic peaking between 6am and 1pm from Friday to Sunday.

It is also forecast to be the busiest year on record for the Christmas getaway in the UK.

P&O Ferries, which operates some of the ships from the port, said there are large queues on the approach roads and in the buffer area.

But once through passengers will face a smooth journey with no check-in delays, it added.

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The Port of Dover added in the post: "We also ask that all port-bound traffic remain on the main roads to the port, the A20 and A2, and keep the local roads clear for the community.

"If customers do miss their scheduled sailing due to the wait times, their ferry operator will place them on the next available crossing."

Simon Jones, an AA expert patrol, said: "It's beginning to look a lot like traffic. Our advice is simple: plan ahead, check your route and allow extra time. Patience will be your best present this year."

(c) Sky News 2025: Dover ferry passengers hit by delays after IT issues