The Port of Dover is set for major traffic jams as border checks and processes may take up to two hours. The port warned motorists to prepare for the delay and being stuck in traffic for a long time.
The Excitement and Frustration
Ahead of the Olympic Games in France this year, motorists and travellers are warned that border checks and processing will take much longer. The post-Brexit fingerprint system and other check-ins could see people stuck in traffic for as long as two hours or more.
Even Busier Than Usual
Chief Executive of Port of Dover, Doug Bannister, said the port is bound to be “exceptionally busy” with summer and the Olympics coming up soon. Motorists could possibly wait two hours in peak traffic time.
The Influx of Tourists and Travellers
Given the warm summer season, more people tend to visit warm European countries like Spain, France and Portugal for the season. But, 2024’s Olympic games, starting 26 July, is going to see the usual tourist numbers increase exponentially.
EU Border Checks
Post-Brexit visitors may have longer processing times as the new systems have only been effectively in place since 2024. There were previous delays which pushed the project out even further
First Time Checking-in
Travellers from non-EU countries visiting for the first time post the new systems will need to process their fingerprints and follow through the biometric system. There are also other steps that the automated system will implement.
It’s Challenging
This summer will be challenging because apart from a regular summer tourist visit, there’ll be people coming to the games this time, too. The new systems to check-in and out will also take time to process each individual.
Maybe 30% More Visitors
Because of the Olympic games, Bannister predicted roughly 30% of extra people would come through the Port of Dover.
Long Hours Prevalent During Peak Times
According to the BBC, the system’s timing during peak hours could take about two hours or until it winds down.
When is Peak Times?
When going through the Port of Dover, the peak times for motorists are between 6 am and 1 pm on Fridays. However, peak traffic can also be during the weekend.
How Many Border Posts Are Used?
According to BBC, there are usually seven border posts at the Port of Dover, but it has since increased to 11 posts. The increase in border posts can help people check-in and move faster.
Processing From 18 July
The Port of Dover’s Chief Executive said that from 18 July, the processing times at the port will officially be two hours during peak.
Book Before the Time – Strategic Planning .
Bannister said that people coming this way must book their ferry ahead of time. However, they shouldn’t book two hours ahead as they need to compensate for the delay at the border posts.
Patience Is a Virtue
BBC reported that during the Easter season last year, some passengers that came to the port via coach were waiting 14 hours. The coach service didn’t expect the influx of that many people for Easter.
What Caused Coach Delays?
At the time, coach companies said they had received 15% more bookings than usual.
Now, Even More People
While Easter may have seen coaches booked to the brim and overflowing, a prediction of 30% more people makes everyone a bit more “nervous.” During the Easter delay of 14 hours, the management at the port said the weather and processing systems were the course.
Use the Designated Route
Officials have told travellers that they should only use the main designated roads and routes to travel to the ferry.
Be Ready at the Check-in or Check-out
Travellers must get their passports and documentation ready before reaching the port terminals. Being ready like this effectively reduces the waiting time for the people checking in at that very moment and the travelers waiting in those long queues.
Prepare Ahead of Schedule
The Port of Dover also said people must not only plan but also keep their time ahead of schedule to avoid disappointment.
More Tips for Travelling via the Port of Dover
BBC News says further tips were given to passengers to help them have a smooth experience.
Working With Government and Dover Authorities
A spokesperson for the UK government has told BBC that they will work with Eurotunnel, Dover, and authorities throughout the summer.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Simon Ward Photography.