Dover Braces for Summer Surge with Major Border Boost
Port of Dover Adds 50% More Border Booths
The Port of Dover is ramping up to slash wait times just in time for the summer holiday rush. A huge 50% increase in French border control booths is underway, ensuring quicker passenger processing. All new booths will be up and running before the crucial getaway weekend of July 22-24.
Internal traffic routes have been rejigged to speed up vehicle flow and tackle peak time congestion. Plus, a bigger team of Passenger Champions will be on hand to assist travellers, while fresh toilet facilities and a new refreshment stand promise a more comfortable wait—subject to opening hours.
Travel Smart: Expert Tips to Dodge Delays
“Dover remains a top pick for families heading off this summer,” says Doug Bannister, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover. “These improvements will help get everyone’s holiday off to a flying start. But travellers also need to plan wisely to avoid hold-ups.”
- Expect French border checks to take 60-90 minutes during peak times—Brexit means more paperwork and stricter controls.
- Book or confirm ferry tickets before you travel.
- Check your ferry company’s website for the latest updates.
- Follow Kent County Council’s ‘check before you travel’ guide for essential info.
- Arrive just in time for your scheduled sailing to avoid crowding the port.
- Bring snacks, water, and essentials in case of delays.
- Use only major roads to keep traffic moving smoothly for everyone.
- Have all documents ready for French border control—passports, vaccination certificates, Covid test results where needed—to speed up processing.
Teamwork to Beat the Summer Bulge
The Port of Dover hasn’t gone it alone. It’s working closely with ferry operators, border authorities, central government, and Kent County Council to ensure everyone’s ready for the summer onslaught.
“We’re fully prepared for the expected rise in passenger numbers,” Bannister adds. “Dover will be busy, but we’re set to keep things moving and look forward to welcoming holidaymakers this summer.”
