Cruise port of call: Dover

Dover is a popular port of call with an amazing array of things to do and see, all within a short walk, bus or taxi ride from the cruise terminals. The White Cliffs are known throughout the world, but explore a little farther and you will find miles of unspoilt coastline, beautiful countryside and charming towns with incredible history and heritage.

Dover is one of Britain's busiest and most historic ports and a great starting point to explore the UK's well loved and internationally famous White Cliffs and beyond. With so much to see and do here, let us help you maximise your time ashore and explore the incredible history and heritage and unique character of this spectacular area.  

Two double-decker buses parked in front of a cruise ship docked in the Port of Dover.
Hop on board a YMS bus at the cruise terminal to travel into Dover town centre and to Dover Castle on port of call days.
Getting around while you're here

YMS Shuttle Bus It’s easy getting into and around Dover with YMS Travel operating a 'hop-on/hop-off' shuttle bus service from the cruise terminals on all port of call days. This service takes you direct to Dover’s Market Square and Dover Castle, taking around 15 minutes. The service runs regularly throughout the day until two hours before the cruise ship leaves. Contactless payment options on every bus.

Please note: although walking from Dover Castle to the White Cliffs looks straightforward on a map, the road connecting them has no footway. For safety reasons you are advised to use the shuttle service to the seafront and follow the pedestrian route via Athol Terrace.

Local buses Stagecoach operates services to nearby Deal, Sandwich and nearby villages. You can buy tickets onboard with cash or contactless card.

Trains Southeastern operates regular train services from Dover Priory to Deal, Sandwich and Canterbury, as well as a high-speed service to London St Pancras. Buy tickets online or at the station before boarding.

Taxis You will find taxis at Cruise Terminals 1 and 2 and in and around Dover town centre.

Bicycle Click2Cycle have installed a number of e-bike hire stations in and around Dover, making cycle hire quick and easy. Download the app to hire and pay.

A couple holding a map with Dover Museum in the background.
Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre at the museum and explore the area.
Visitor information

Download our handy Step Ashore guides (available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish) for visiting Dover, Deal and Sandwich or pick up a copy from our Welcome Desk in the cruise terminal (open on all port of call days throughout the year) or the Visitor Information Centre in town. 

Our friendly, experienced and knowledgeable teams will help you with all the useful information you need to make the most of your time here. 

The Visitor Information Centre in town is in Dover Museum, where our expert team can help you maximise your time and help with onward travel - White Cliffs Country Visitor Information Centre, Dover Museum, Market Square, Dover CT16 1PH. You can also phone them on +44 (0)1304 201066 or email VIC@dover.gov.uk.

VIC opening hours

  • Monday to Saturday 9.30am – 5pm (year-round)
  • Sunday 10am – 3pm (April to September only)

Services

  • Providing maps, visitor guides, brochures and leaflets
  • Accommodation information and bookings
  • National Express tickets and coach cards
  • Cross-channel ferry bookings for P&O and DFDS
  • Booking Crosskeys and Bayliss coach tours
  • Cruise Shuttle Bus tickets (on port of call days only)
  • Theatre tokens
  • Gift shop - for a wide range of gifts and souvenirs
Two of the visitor information welcome desk team smiling at the camera.
We look forward to welcoming you!