Discover Ferries names top no-fly destinations for 2025 and when to visit

Looking for no-fly, short haul trips? The ferry industry body has revealed the best places to visit in 2025.

Amsterdam – the city is hosting its 750th anniversary celebrations and cultural events across the year. On 21 June the city’s A10 ring-road will be closed for a 15 kilometre parade and street party.

Stena Line offers Rail-Sail ticket from UK stations to Holland or book short breaks and mini-cruises with DFDS or P&O Ferries.

Isle of Arran – the Scottish Isle is bidding for UNESCO Global Geopark status in recognition of its natural geography and heritage. Visitors are encouraged to be responsible, travelling by foot, bus or bicycle to explore the island’s diverse scenery, which has earned it the nickname, “Scotland in miniature”. Head over in October for the red deer rutting season.

Travel with Caledonian MacBrayne.

Channel Islands – commemorating 80 years since the islands were liberated from German occupation, this year’s Liberation Day, 8 May, holds greater significance with an open-air parade and fireworks display.

Dieppe – 2025 marks 200 years of passenger ferry services between Newhaven, East Sussex and the Normandy port of Dieppe. Make history by travelling in the anniversary year and time your visit to coincide with the town’s International Kite Festival (13-21 September) a free, rainbow-coloured spectacle that is famed across the globe.

Book tickets with DFDS

Abby Penlington, Director of Discover Ferries, says: “The trend for authentic and personalised experiences continues to grow. To help travellers find something different, see popular destinations from a new perspective, view wildlife in its natural habitat and experience once-in-a-lifetime events, we have highlighted the best places to go next year. Better yet, they are all accessible by ferry helping holidaymakers to enjoy relaxing travel at excellent value. We’ve also worked out the best time of year to visit, as there are seasons when you’re more likely to see wildlife, take in cultural events or even pick up fantastic discounts on wine.”