That was the question I asked myself when deciding which route to take to mainland Europe this week.
Travelling to Rotterdam from the port of Hull (Ferry) or to France from Folkestone's Le Shuttle produced pretty similar costs (about £140 with travel and the cost of the tickets taken into account - based on 2 pax). The only real difference between the two being the speed - approx 30mins in the tunnel to Calais or a 12 hour ferry to Rotterdam, but that's the only difference... right?
With the lure of covering distance by travelling over night (thus saving precious driving hours and arriving in Rotterdam early AM) I chose the ferry.
Now having travelled on numerous Greek ferries I was pretty sure of the set-up. Book online, drive to the port, collect the ferry ticket, queue for an hour, drive aboard, queue with another 150 well travelled customers then find a quiet place to get some shut eye...
P&O's The Pride of Hull is different. Within a matter of minutes, of having driven to the ferry terminal gates, I've handed over my booking printout, received the key for my (included!) cabin and boarding pass, directed to the ferry, had my boarding pass checked and driven aboard. Fast.
The rooms are very basic but clean (if you opt for the included room with your ticket) with fold down beds, a shower and toilet room and a little desk.
Out of the room you have free reign to head to the cinema to watch a recent film, head to one of the themed bars, watch the live entertain or gamble your savings away. As expected there are also plenty of food options, too.
Failing that you can retreat to your cabin and organise your shopping trip or plan the next leg of your journey.
If you're in hurry to get to France then Le Shuttle's seamless speedy service, with duty free options, is for you. If, however, you have some time on you're hands and fancy travelling in basic luxury with an included cabin and entertainment on hand then P&O's Pride of Hull is a must.
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