The night ferry transfer from Poland to Sweden was the opening chapter of our summer circuit through the Scandinavian and Baltic countries. Specifically, we sailed from the port of Świnoujście in Poland to Trelleborg in Sweden with TT-Line – and of course, with our dog Ibo.
The plan was simple: board in the evening, sleep for a few hours, and wake up in Sweden in the morning. The reality, however, was a bit more interesting.
Last-minute booking
Since the whole trip came about fairly spontaneously, we handled the ferry booking at the last minute. Tickets on the ship were still available, but a problem arose with cabins for passengers with dogs. Those were sold out.
We decided to take the risk and figured we could manage the several-hour crossing in the ship’s common areas. In hindsight, we can say it wasn’t an ideal plan.
Journey to the port of Świnoujście
Around midday we set off from Bratislava. We fought our way through the Czech Republic and, after good Polish motorways, arrived in the port of Świnoujście in the evening.
Everything here is fairly well signposted, so we quickly find the right lane to queue in. Many other cars, caravans and vans are waiting with us. There’s about an hour left until the ferry’s departure.
Ibo peeks out of the window curiously — it’s time to walk him. Unfortunately, we’re in the industrial part of the port where there is very little greenery. The atmosphere is filled with activity, noise and the constant wailing of seagulls. Ibo takes a while to get used to the new surroundings. The continuous crying of the seagulls keeps him alert, but after a few minutes we find he’s handling it better than we are. By the end of the walk he looks like he’s got things under control.
We’re not the only dog owners here. Other passengers with dogs are also using the open areas. A nice bonus is a public toilet nearby. We don’t see any refreshment options, but we’re well prepared — Iva always responsibly packs for trips like this.
Boarding
When buying tickets online we were given information about the possibility of self check-in, but the reality at the port looks different. We don’t see any kiosks, so we do what everyone else does — wait in line.
The queue slowly moves and cars start to board. At the check we show printed tickets and receive provisional TT-Line boarding passes along with instructions on where to park on the ship.
After parking we take basic sleeping items — two small sleeping bags, mats, water and a few small snacks. We had dinner before boarding — after all, it’s shortly after midnight. We’re thinking more about sleep than food.
For now we leave Ibo in the car until the situation calms down a bit. There’s noise and chaos around us. When we’re ready, we take him on a leash and head down the stairs into the ship’s interior.
Finding a place for the night
There are surprisingly many people on the decks. Progress is slow and it’s busy everywhere. We meet other dog owners — and the usual barking of one dog at another is not missing. A leash is a necessity here.
We quickly realize that most of the good spots in the common areas are taken. Families, individuals and other passengers without cabins have strategically occupied benches, spaces by the walls and the children’s corner.
Finding a quiet place for the three of us seems almost impossible.
Eventually I discover, on one of the decks, a corridor at the end of the hall leading to the outer deck. It’s a place away from the main bustle, where we don’t bother anyone and no one bothers us. Iva is not thrilled with the choice, but admits that it’s quieter here than elsewhere.
The ship starts moving and the familiar noise of the engines is heard. Nothing new for Ibo. He knows similar sounds well from our ferry trips to the Croatian islands, but you can still see he’s alert and trying to orient himself in the new environment.
Night in the corridor
Comfort is minimal, but at least nobody disturbs us. Midway through the crossing another couple with a dog lies down at the opposite end of the corridor. Tension arises for a moment, but fatigue quickly wins and both dogs gradually calm down.
Before sleeping we also use the nearby deck for a short walk. At dawn we try again, but strong wind and the ship’s rolling make being outside unpleasant and also dangerous. The walk has to wait, which doesn’t help our peace of mind.
In the end we get through the short and intense night without harm. We did catch some sleep, but it can hardly be called a pleasant experience — rather an improvised survival of a few hours.
Arrival in Sweden
The ferry served its purpose and safely brought us to Trelleborg. A bit sore and sleep-deprived, we return to the car and wait to disembark.
Since we’re traveling within the EU, no one checks our documents or Ibo’s.
After landing we head to the first petrol station where we properly walk Ibo and have breakfast. Another interesting day lies ahead, but we know it will be more relaxed — the primary goal is to make up for this night’s sleep and get ourselves together a bit.
What we learned
This experience taught us that for night ferries it’s sensible to book a cabin suitable for a dog, even if it’s more expensive.
At the same time we noticed that no one closely examined whether we were traveling with a dog or not. Theoretically it would be possible to book a regular cabin and sleep in it with a dog. We leave that without comment.
Anyway — the ferry as a means of transport works great. It’s just wise not to underestimate comfort, especially if you’re traveling with a dog. Fatigue, the stress of finding a spot and the nighttime noise on the ship can spoil the start of a trip more than you’d expect.
Basic information about the Świnoujście – Trelleborg route
- Route: Świnoujście (Poland) – Trelleborg (Sweden)
- Company: TT-Line
- Duration: approximately 6 – 7 hours (depending on the specific connection)
- Type of crossing: day and night sailings
- Transport options: passenger cars, caravans, motorcycles, trucks
- Cabins: standard and pet-friendly cabins (limited number)
- Traveling with a dog: allowed on selected decks and in designated cabins