Ferry Companies for Denmark
Check prices & times »Because there's no direct ferry to Denmark, there's no single "Denmark" ferry company. Instead, you'll travel with one of the operators running the North Sea crossings to the Netherlands, then drive north through Germany.
The main companies are DFDS, P&O Ferries and Stena Line. Which one you use depends on the crossing you choose. This page is a quick guide to each and what they run.
Operators at a glance
| Operator | Main Route to Holland | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| DFDS | Newcastle–Amsterdam (IJmuiden) | View Operator » |
| P&O Ferries | Hull–Rotterdam | View Operator » |
| Stena Line | Harwich–Hook of Holland | View Operator » |
DFDS
DFDS runs the overnight Newcastle to Amsterdam crossing to IJmuiden, well placed for the drive north to Denmark. DFDS also ran the old Harwich–Esbjerg route before it closed, and it remains a strong choice for reaching Scandinavia via the Netherlands.
Read our full DFDS guide »P&O Ferries
P&O Ferries runs the overnight Hull to Rotterdam crossing, a convenient starting point for northern travellers heading to Denmark. From Rotterdam you drive north through Germany.
Read our full P&O Ferries guide »Stena Line
Stena Line operates the Harwich to Hook of Holland crossing, the fastest Dutch route, with good rail links. It's a strong option for starting the journey to Denmark, especially for foot passengers.
Read our full Stena Line guide »Which company will I travel with?
It comes down to your nearest port and crossing. From the north-east or Scotland, DFDS on Newcastle–Amsterdam avoids a long drive south first. From northern England, P&O's Hull–Rotterdam works well. From the east and south-east, Stena's Harwich–Hook of Holland is fastest. All three land in the Netherlands for the drive north through Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ferry company goes to Denmark?
None directly — there's no direct UK–Denmark ferry. You travel with DFDS, P&O or Stena Line to the Netherlands, then drive north through Germany.
Who ran the old Harwich–Esbjerg ferry?
DFDS operated the Harwich to Esbjerg crossing to Denmark until it closed in 2014. DFDS now runs the Newcastle–Amsterdam route towards Scandinavia.
Which operator is best for Denmark?
It depends on your start — DFDS from Newcastle, P&O from Hull, or Stena Line from Harwich — all landing in the Netherlands for the onward drive.
Can I reach Denmark overnight by ferry?
Yes — DFDS's Newcastle–Amsterdam and P&O's Hull–Rotterdam are both overnight crossings, a comfortable start to the journey.