Ferries on the Plymouth to Roscoff Route 2025
Travellers using the ferries on the Plymouth to Roscoff route will usually sail on one of two Brittany Ferries vessels: the Armorique or the Pont-Aven.
This guide explains what each ship offers, how they differ, and what you can expect onboard. It’s written for families, foot passengers, motorists and anyone wanting a clear, practical overview before travelling.
Within the article you’ll find links to detailed guides for each ship, helping you plan your crossing with confidence but if you’re ready to book click here.
Overview of Ferries on the Plymouth to Roscoff Route
The Plymouth to Roscoff route is operated exclusively by Brittany Ferries, using two main ships:
Both vessels offer cabins, restaurants, lounges, shopping, entertainment areas and full vehicle decks. Crossing times vary from 5 hours 15 minutes on the fastest daytime sailing to 8–11 hours overnight, depending on schedule and conditions.
These ships form the core of the route’s year-round service and are central to the onboard experience.
Why the Ships on This Route Matter
Understanding which ship you’ll travel on helps you plan for:
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Cabin choices – sizes, sea-view options and layouts vary
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Onboard facilities – restaurants, lounges and entertainment differ
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Family suitability – both ships have family friendly spaces but they do differ.
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Comfort and stability – especially important in rough weather
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Vehicle capacity – relevant for motorhomes, campervans and trailers
Because the route alternates between two vessels, knowing the differences makes your journey smoother.
Key Details at a Glance
| Feature |
Armorique |
Pont-Aven |
| Primary vessel for route |
✔ Yes |
Secondary |
| Ship type |
Modern, route-focused |
Flagship-style, multi-route |
| Best for |
Families, standard cabins |
Premium cabins, more space |
| Restaurants & bars |
Multiple |
Multiple (larger choice) |
| Vehicle capacity |
Large |
Very large |
| Typical use |
Most sailings |
Selected periods |
You can see our full comparison of the Armorique Vs the Pont Aven in the linked page.
Armorique – Overview & Highlights
The Armorique is the main ship used on the Plymouth ↔ Roscoff route. Designed specifically for Brittany Ferries’ UK–France crossings, it offers a practical layout, good stability and a family-friendly environment. It’s the vessel most travellers will experience on this route throughout the year.
Key Features of the Armorique
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Modern cabin layout with 2-berth, 4-berth and accessible cabin options
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Restaurants, bars and lounges offering relaxed dining and sea views
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Family-friendly facilities, including dedicated play areas
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Good stability in rough weather, ideal for Bay of Biscay conditions
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Large vehicle capacity, suitable for cars, motorhomes and trailers
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Clear onboard signage for easy movement around the ship
For more detail on cabins, onboard areas, and deck layout:
Pont-Aven – Overview & Highlights
The Pont-Aven is Brittany Ferries’ larger flagship-style vessel. It operates several long-distance routes, but it also covers selected Plymouth to Roscoff sailings throughout the year.
When scheduled on this route, it offers a more spacious feel, premium cabin options and a wider choice of onboard facilities.
Key Features of the Pont-Aven
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Flagship-style design with a more luxurious onboard atmosphere
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Premium cabins, including larger outside cabins and higher-grade options
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Indoor pool (operational depending on season and maintenance)
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Wide choice of restaurants and lounges
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Large vehicle decks suitable for cars, campervans and motorhomes
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Expansive public spaces ideal for longer or overnight sailings
For cabin details, deck plans and full facility listings:
Comparing the Ferries: Armorique vs Pont-Aven
Both ships offer comfortable crossings on the Plymouth to Roscoff route, but each has a slightly different feel. The comparison below helps you choose the best vessel for your trip, especially if you prefer certain cabin types, facilities or onboard environments.
Cabin Quality
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Armorique:
Modern, practical cabins with simple layouts. A good choice for families and travellers wanting clear, functional spaces.
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Pont-Aven:
A broader cabin range, including premium options with more space and upgraded amenities. Better suited to those wanting a higher level of comfort.
Onboard Entertainment
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Armorique:
Family-friendly lounges, play areas and relaxed spaces.
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Pont-Aven:
Larger entertainment areas, more varied lounges and, when available, an indoor pool.
Vehicle Capacity
Both ships can accommodate:
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Cars
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Motorhomes
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Campervans
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Motorcycles
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Trailers
However:
Best for Families / Foot Passengers
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Best for families:
Armorique — designed with family-friendly facilities and straightforward layouts.
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Best for foot passengers:
Pont-Aven — more lounges, wider public spaces and a more spacious feel.
Onboard Facilities You’ll Find on Both Ships
Although the Armorique and Pont-Aven have different designs, they share a core set of facilities that travellers can expect on any Plymouth ↔ Roscoff sailing. These facilities are suitable for families, foot passengers and motorists, with clear layouts and easy access around the ship.
Cabin Types & Layout
Both vessels offer:
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2-berth and 4-berth cabins
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Inside and sea-view options
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En-suite bathrooms
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Accessible cabins for passengers with reduced mobility
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Pet-friendly cabins or kennels
Food, Bars & Cafés
Each ship includes:
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A main restaurant
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Casual dining options
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Self-service areas
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Bars with sea views
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Coffee shops or cafés
Menus and opening hours may vary by season and sailing type.
Shopping & Duty-Free
Both ships have onboard shops offering:
Duty-free pricing applies on relevant routes and sailings.
Entertainment Areas
Facilities vary between the two ships, but both offer:
WiFi & Connectivity
WiFi access is available on both vessels, with:
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Free basic access (where offered)
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Paid packages for faster speeds
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Coverage varying by ship and route condition.
What to Expect on Your Crossing
Sailings on the Plymouth to Roscoff route are straightforward, well organised and suitable for all types of travellers. The experience varies slightly depending on whether you’re travelling during the day or overnight, and whether you’re boarding on foot or with a vehicle.
Day vs Night Crossings
Day crossings (approx. 5 hrs 15 mins on the fastest sailing):
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More time spent in lounges, bars and deck areas
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Ideal for foot passengers and families wanting sea views
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Shops and cafés usually open throughout the journey
Night crossings (approx. 8–11 hrs depending on schedule):
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Cabins are recommended for rest and privacy
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Quieter onboard atmosphere
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Restaurants and bars open shortly after departure
Foot Passengers vs Vehicles
Foot passengers:
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Board via the terminal walkway or shuttle route
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Luggage limits vary (usually hand luggage + small bags)
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Clear signage throughout the ship
Vehicle travellers:
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Drive directly onto the ship via marked lanes
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Staff guide you to your deck and parking space
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Suitable for cars, campervans, motorhomes, trailers and motorcycles
Pets Onboard
Pets can travel on both ships using either:
You’ll need correct documentation for travel between the UK and France.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which ferry operates the Plymouth to Roscoff route?
Brittany Ferries mainly uses the Armorique, with the Pont-Aven operating selected sailings depending on the timetable.
2. What is the difference between the Armorique and Pont-Aven?
The Armorique is a modern, family-focused ship designed for this route. The Pont-Aven is larger, with premium cabins and more onboard space.
3. Are cabins available on both ships?
Yes. Both vessels offer 2-berth and 4-berth cabins, plus sea-view, inside and accessible cabin options.
4. Can I take my car on the ferry?
Yes. Both ships have large vehicle decks for cars, motorhomes, campervans, motorcycles and bicycles.
5. Are pets allowed onboard?
Yes. Pets can travel in pet-friendly cabins or onboard kennels.
6. Which ferry is better for families?
The Armorique is usually preferred because of its layout, facilities and family-friendly design.
7. How rough is the sea on the Plymouth to Roscoff route?
Conditions vary, but both ships are stable and designed for the western English Channel and occasional Bay of Biscay swells.
8. Does the Pont-Aven have a pool?
Yes, an indoor pool is available when in service, although availability depends on season and maintenance.
9. Is food available on both ships?
Yes. Both vessels have restaurants, cafés and bars serving meals, snacks and drinks.
10. Do foot passengers board differently from drivers?
Yes. Foot passengers use the terminal walkway or shuttle, while vehicles board via marked lanes.
Guide → /foot-passenger-guide/
11. How long is the Plymouth to Roscoff crossing?
Day crossings take around 5 hours 15 minutes. Overnight sailings range between 8 and 11 hours.
12. Which ferry is more spacious?
The Pont-Aven offers larger public spaces and more lounge areas, making it feel more open on busy sailings.
Related Guides
If you’d like more detail on the ships, cabins or onboard experience, these pages provide deeper information:
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the ferries on the Plymouth to Roscoff route often comes down to the experience you prefer. The Armorique offers a practical, family-focused layout and operates most sailings, while the Pont-Aven provides extra space and premium cabin options when scheduled on the route. Both ships deliver a comfortable, reliable way to travel between the UK and France, with clear onboard facilities and straightforward boarding for foot passengers and vehicles.
