Onboard

ORCA

What is ORCA?

ORCA is a UK-based marine conservation charity working to protect whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Through a long-standing partnership with DFDS, ORCA volunteers and Ocean Conservationists sail with us on the English Channel and North Sea, collecting vital data that supports global conservation and helps safeguard marine habitats for generations to come.

Newhaven–Dieppe

ORCA is on board our Newhaven–Dieppe route with something for everyone. Expect interactive presentations, wildlife watching sessions, and fun the whole family can get involved in. Keep your eyes on the water, dolphins have a habit of showing up when you least expect them!

Onboard experience

Newhaven-Dieppe

This route links southern England with Normandy and has a sailing time of just 4 hours.

Newcastle-Amsterdam

Two cruise ferries operate this overnight route linking northern England with Holland.

Dover-Dunkirk

With a sailing time of just 2 hours between Dover and Dunkirk, there is plenty to do onboard whilst you sit back and relax.

Dover-Calais

The crossing times may be short, but you'll find plenty of things to keep the whole family entertained as you sail on our modern ferries between Dover and Calais.

Amsterdam–Newcastle

ORCA activities run daily on our Amsterdam–Newcastle route from 27 April to 13 October. Join the Ocean Conservationists for wildlife sessions, interactive displays, and the chance to spot white-beaked dolphins, minke whales, and more. Travelling solo, as a couple, or with the kids, this is the kind of thing that makes a North Sea crossing memorable.

Onboard with ORCA

Whichever route you're on, the ORCA experience is built around connection with the sea, the science, and the experts.

Drop into the dedicated ORCA space to explore marine conservation up close, take part in interactive sessions, and chat with the Ocean Conservationists who know our waters well.

And it doesn't stop there. Marine Mammal Surveyors volunteer across the Amsterdam–Newcastle, Newhaven–Dieppe, and Dover–Calais routes all year round, quietly gathering the scientific data that makes conservation work possible. Every journey contributes to a greater understanding of our oceans and the protection of marine life.

Proudly named the World’s Leading Ferry Operator

We are also proud to announce that we have been nominated as Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator 2026 and this amazing journey continues, first and foremost, thanks to you.

To our loyal passengers who put their trust in us, our valued partners and our hard-working colleagues: this nomination is also yours. You are the heart of DFDS and today, we’d like to say THANK YOU.

Let's continue to create beautiful memories and cross the finish line together.

Find out more VOTE NOW

Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply. Some banks may charge a fee when paying in a different currency.