Wi-fi options when crossing the Channel between the UK and France

STAYING in touch via email or social networks, while browsing a favourite website, is common for many of us today, but when that link is cut what happens then?

Losing your connection when crossing the Channel between the UK and France may leave some people wondering just what to do next, so here is a look at the different options available from ferry firms as well as rail companies.

P&O Ferries
Wi-fi is free on the two new ships on the Dover to Calais route, the Spirit of France and Spirit of Britain. With the company saying it is working on providing the same on the three other ships on the service.

Brittany Ferries
Wireless connectivity to the internet for Brittany Ferries passengers is possible via any wireless-enabled PC, tablet or smartphone. It is free to all customers, who each receive an individual access code printed on their boarding card when they check-in. The service can be accessed on all routes, 24 hours a day, throughout most public areas of each ship.

Condor Ferries
The company does not have wi-fi on board its ferries but says that a number of its ports offer connections free of charge.

DFDS Seaways
Wi-fi is available on board the Dover to France services, with all passengers are able to connect for free. Passengers who upgrade to the first class lounge on the Dover to Dunkirk service (£12 per person) are also able to connect to high speed wi-fi. However, due to satellite coverage DFDS can not guarantee a constant connection will be available on the ship while crossing the Channel.

MyFerryLink
The company is hoping to offer wi-fi access very soon, which will be priced at £1.50 for two hours connection, which is longer than the journey time across the Channel.

Eurotunnel
The Eurotunnel shuttle service provides 2G and 3G connections in its south tunnel (France to UK).

Eurostar
Wi-fi is currently not available on its trains, but wireless networks cover the whole of the departure area at St Pancras International, Paris Gare du Nord, Brussels Midi, the Business Quiet Area at the Ashford International and the departure lounge at Ebbsfleet International.

Remember if you do try and connect to the wi-fi services check just how much you will have to pay if required, and there are likely to be restrictions on what, and how much, you can download.

You might also want to get up to speed on how to connect to a wi-fi connection through your mobile device, especially if it is not an option you regularly use.

There is also the possibility that any anti-virus software you have will pop up a warning about the new connection, although it is likely that it is set up securely and you won't have too much to worry about.

And of course, once in France or elsewhere beyond your domestic mobile or wireless connection service, double-check that you are not set up to use 'roaming' as the cost can soon mount up.

If you have any hints or tips on wi-fi connections when crossing the Channel please feel free to pass them on to readers via the comment form below.

Comments

[Will]

I took 2 trips with Brittany ferries this month and the wifi wasn't working either time

[Craig McGinty]

Hi Will, I think it's been a recent addition to the service so it might have been experiencing 'teething troubles' hopefully it is running smoothly now.