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Can I stay in my car during a ferry crossing?

What the ferry regulations say about staying in the car on board.

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Short answer

Yes, on Norwegian car ferries you may normally stay in your car during the crossing, unless notices on board say otherwise, according to the national ferry regulations. The engine must be switched off, with the parking brake and lowest gear engaged, and you must follow the crew's instructions. Smoking is not allowed on deck or in the cars.

Ferry life hacks in Norway a red train crossing a bridge, a small airplane above and a ferry on blue water below

Why

  1. Section 5 of the regulations on transport by ferry says people may stay in vehicles during the crossing if nothing else is posted on board.
  2. The same section requires the driver to switch off the engine and engage the parking brake and lowest gear until the ferry has docked.
  3. Fjord1 says the propulsion engine must always be stopped during the crossing for safety reasons and because of special fire hazards.

Details

It is not allowed to stand or walk between vehicles while the ferry is docking. Drivers must follow the crew's instructions and the signs at the quay and on board. On Fjord1 ferries, pets must stay in the car or in a cage during the crossing and cannot go into the passenger lounge.

Tip

If you go up to the café or lounge, return to the car in good time before the ferry docks, since walking between cars during docking is forbidden.

What may differ

The same national rules apply on the Moss to Horten ferry, so you can stay in the car there unless the crew or posted signs say otherwise.

Common misconception

You always have to leave the car and go up to the passenger deck on a Norwegian ferry.

What actually happens

The regulations say you may normally stay in your vehicle; you only have to leave it if notices on board or the crew say so.

People also ask

  • Can I sit in the car on the Moss to Horten ferry?
  • Do I have to leave my car on a Norwegian ferry?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check the ferry company before you travel.

Ferry life hacks in Norway
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