In summer, many people want to go on holiday to England or Scotland and we are very happy about that. Because we don't want to disappoint anyone, we try to give everyone a place, including on the car deck. However, this is a huge challenge for our ‘car marshals’, (mostly) men who point out the cars' spots. This can be stressful (and I, as a not very skilled driver, know what I'm talking about) and so we offer some tips to minimise the stress.
Fitting and measuring
It really is fitting and measuring, and every inch counts. So if you think you really can't go any further, chances are you will still be asked to drive a bit further. Stay calm and positive. It can be a bit of a shock, such a marshal ordering you to drive further than seems possible, but it really fits and it is ultimately in the interest of all of us. Instead of getting annoyed and agitated by this, just smile about it. After all, it's a holiday!
Split up!
If you are travelling with more than one person, have one person drive onto the car deck and the rest as foot passengers onto the cruise ferry. The advantage of this is that only the driver has to wriggle out of the car and not everyone can interfere ;-). And thanks to WhatsApp, you find each other again in no time!
Pack an overnight bag
On board, only take luggage for one overnight stay. This way, you avoid having to drag large suitcases across the car deck, and most importantly, avoid causing damage to other - and your own - car. Besides, suitcases also take up a lot of space in your cabin.
Am I going to Copenhagen or Newcastle?
On the back of our ships it says ‘Copenhagen’. Don't panic, all ships from IJmuiden just go to Newcastle! DFDS is a Danish company, hence this mention. Before departure, also check out this video, which clearly explains how boarding with a car works. Together with these tips, you'll have a lot fewer surprises and your holiday to England - even for slightly less skilled drivers - can start in IJmuiden!
