Essex boats

County advice overview

Harwich International operates the Stena Line ferry service in Essex and this service is fully accessible for disabled passengers. 

Key Tips

• If you require further assistance regarding your journey and mobility needs prior to your trip with Stena Line, you can telephone 03447 707 070 or email assistance@stenaline.com

Operators

Harwich International (Essex county) 

Stena Line operates between the Hook of Holland and Harwich with two sailings a day. Further details regarding timetables and routes can be found here. 

Special Assistance

Stena Line (Harwich)

Almost all Stena Line ports & ferries are adapted to suit the needs of disabled/reduced mobility passengers. 

For special assistance, you can contact the Harwich International Reception Desk on the first floor of the Ferry Passenger Terminal. There is a lift at the terminal. Or speak directly to your travel operator.

Parking 

Disabled parking bays for short and long stay are located at the ferry terminal entrance, with lift access to the check-in area. 

You can drive directly to the Cruise Terminal for drop-offs, and your vehicle can be parked for you if necessary. Please arrange for this service with your tour operator before leaving home.

Accessible Toilets

Unisex disabled toilet facilities are available on the first floor of the Ferry Terminal and the Departure Lounge after passing through controls.

Wheelchairs and facilities

Wheelchairs can be made available by Harwich International upon request from Reception Desk or your travel operator. All terminal buildings and walkways offer level or ramped access points at entrances and exits. Walkways leading to cruise ships are wheelchair-friendly.

Cruise Terminal 

You can ask for help or assistance at the Cruise Terminal in the following ways:

• At the Cruise Terminal Information Desk
• At the Harwich International Reception Desk, located on the first floor of the Ferry Passenger Terminal
• Directly through your travel operator

Car Terminal

You can ask for help or assistance at the car terminal in the following ways:

• At the motorist check-in booths
• Directly through your travel operator

On request, you can be placed in a separate lane to other vehicles. This will enable you to board the ship first and for your vehicle to be placed next to one of the lifts on the car decks.

Traveling with mobility equipment

All Stena Line terminal buildings and walkways offer level or ramped access points at entrances and exits. Walkways leading to cruise ships are wheelchair-friendly.

Some ferries and some sailings may have a restriction on the number of guests in wheelchairs and guests using mobility devices that can travel.

If you have a disability, reduced mobility or other impairment and require assistance, contact Stena Line for guidance.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs are entitled to free travel and have full access to the passenger decks on all Stena Line routes and vessels.  

All guide and assistance dogs must have the necessary paperwork when checking in at the port and must wear the correct harnesses and jackets at all times while travelling. 

Routes and timetable links

Harwich to the Hook of Holland is the most direct route to the Netherlands and Germany from the south of England. Day or overnight sailings are available. Crossings take 6 hours and 15 minutes. Further information regarding Stena Line routes here.