Traveling from the UK to France with your car? The Euro Tunnel Shuttle, also known as LeShuttle, offers a fast and efficient way to cross the English Channel. Forget ferries and sea sickness; in just 35 minutes, you can drive onto a train in Folkestone and disembark in Calais, ready to explore Europe. This guide provides you with essential information on Euro Tunnel Shuttle tickets, prices, journey times, and how to choose the best option for your travel needs.
Understanding Euro Tunnel Shuttle Ticket Prices
Euro Tunnel Shuttle operates with a dynamic pricing model, meaning the cost of your journey can vary. Several factors influence the price, including:
- Ticket Type: Different ticket options offer varying levels of flexibility and benefits, affecting the price.
- Travel Dates and Time: Prices fluctuate depending on peak and off-peak travel times and dates.
- Vehicle Size: The size and type of your vehicle, including any accessories like roof boxes or trailers, are considered when calculating the fare.
The prices advertised, such as “From £59 per car one way,” are indicative and usually based on a standard-sized car similar to a BMW 3 Series, without extras. To get an accurate quote tailored to your specific vehicle and travel dates, it’s always best to use the Euro Tunnel Shuttle’s fare finder.
Image: A car driving onto the Euro Tunnel Shuttle train carriage, illustrating the ease of loading vehicles.
Exploring Ticket Options: Short Stay Saver and Short Stay Flexiplus
For shorter trips, Euro Tunnel Shuttle offers specialized tickets:
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Short Stay Saver: This is a budget-friendly option perfect for trips up to 5 days. The ticket must be purchased as part of a return journey within 5 days, with the return trip completed by midnight local time on the fifth calendar day. Note that this option typically excludes summer bookings, so check availability for your travel dates.
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Short Stay Flexiplus: If you desire more flexibility and added perks for a short trip, the Short Stay Flexiplus ticket is an excellent choice. Like the Saver option, it’s valid for return journeys within 5 days.
Upgrading to Flexiplus for Enhanced Travel
For a premium experience, consider the Flexiplus ticket. While Short Stay Flexiplus is for shorter trips, standard Flexiplus tickets offer a range of benefits designed to make your journey smoother and more comfortable:
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Flexibility and Refundability: Flexiplus tickets are fully flexible and refundable, providing peace of mind should your plans change. However, traveling on Peak Days may incur a Peak Day Charge, ranging from £10 up to £250 per leg, in addition to the ticket price. Check the Euro Tunnel Shuttle website for peak day calendars.
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Priority Boarding: Flexiplus passengers benefit from priority boarding, allowing you to board the next available shuttle. Please note that for safety reasons, motorcycles are excluded from priority boarding.
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Exclusive Lounge Access: Relax and unwind in the dedicated Flexiplus lounges in both Folkestone and Calais. These lounges are open daily from 06:00 to 22:00 (local time) and offer comfortable seating and complimentary refreshments. Outside these hours, a Flexiplus lobby with complimentary coffee and toilet facilities remains accessible (excluding coach passengers).
Image: Inside the Euro Tunnel Shuttle Flexiplus lounge, showing comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Speedy 35-Minute Euro Tunnel Shuttle Crossing
One of the most significant advantages of the Euro Tunnel Shuttle is the incredibly fast crossing time. The planned journey time is just 35 minutes, and recent data confirms this efficiency, with the average crossing time between September 2023 and August 2024 being 34 minutes. This swift journey time minimizes travel fatigue and maximizes your time at your destination.
Important Ticket Information
- Availability: All tickets are subject to availability, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
- Advance Booking: Fares quoted are generally valid only if booked in advance. Tickets purchased on the day of travel at check-in will likely be more expensive.
- Terms and Conditions: For comprehensive details regarding ticket terms and conditions, it’s advisable to refer to the official Euro Tunnel Shuttle website.
Image: A map illustrating the route of the Euro Tunnel Shuttle, connecting Folkestone and Calais.
Choose the Euro Tunnel Shuttle for your next trip to France and experience a comfortable, quick, and efficient way to travel with your car. Whether you opt for the budget-friendly Saver ticket or the premium Flexiplus experience, the Euro Tunnel Shuttle provides a superior alternative to traditional ferry crossings. Remember to check the fare finder for the most accurate pricing and book in advance to secure the best deals.
