Cross-Channel ferry day returns v standard returns

[amandaf078]

I've noticed that a standard return ferry ticket (returning, say, one week later than outward trip) is more expensive than 2 day-trip tickets.

Is there any reason why you can't buy a day return for the outward day and another day return for the return day, and only use half of the ticket on each day? On the way out, there would be no problem, as you might just have missed the homeward ferry, but is it possible to use a homeward half of a day return if you haven't used the outward leg on the same day?

I know this kind of thing wouldn't be possible with a plane journey, as if you don't use the outward ticket, the return ticket would be cancelled.  Does it work the same way with ferries?

[upthecreekyetagain]

The pricing structure has been like this for years however you can't buy a day return ticket in France with a UK passport unless you can prove residency.

[upthecreekyetagain]

If you mean buying two tickets in the UK I'm not sure if this would work as with P&O you get just a single ticket to cover outward and return journeys, (or at least you used to) - I haven't been on the ferry for a number of years, normally use the tunnel.

[amandaf078]

But could you buy a day return (from Dover - Calais) for 1st July and another one (Dover - Calais) for 8th July, and then use the outward journey on 1st July to travel from Dover to Calais, and use the return portion of the other one to travel from Calais to Dover on 8th July?

[upthecreekyetagain]

I think we cross posted 😄

[amandaf078]

If you mean buying two tickets in the UK I'm not sure if this would work as with P&O you get just a single ticket to cover outward and return journeys, (or at least you used to) - I haven't been on the ferry for a number of years, normally use the tunnel.

So do they physically stamp that single ticket when you do the outward leg? or maybe digitally stamp it on the computer? either way, they know that you have travelled out and so the return leg is not valid unless you have travelled out.

[upthecreekyetagain]

They'd certainly know if the outward part of the journey had been completed because the ticketing system is computerised - whether that means they would invalidate the return journey part of the ticket I don't know - I guess the ticket conditions will be on their website somewhere.

[amandaf078]

Yes, I've found the T&C for P&O, and is says 'If you fail to travel on the outward part of your booking then the whole booking will be cancelled including the return crossing.'

So I guess you could use the outward part of the day return to travel TO France, and then a standard single to return.  Although it does say that you're only allowed one piece of hand luggage on a day return.  Not sure if they would search your car looking for extra cases.