Thousands of families embarking on their Christmas holidays are confronting severe delays and gridlocked traffic at the Port of Dover, following a significant IT failure affecting French border controls in Calais.
Border System Failure Causes Pre-Christmas Gridlock
The disruption began on Saturday morning, just before the expected peak in traffic volumes. The Port of Dover confirmed the issue in a statement on X, noting that the French border's technology systems experienced problems. The port is currently working with partner agencies to resolve the ongoing IT glitch.
This technical failure has led to extensive queues for ferry passengers. P&O Ferries reported large queues in the buffer area, though it assured travellers that check-in would proceed smoothly once they reach the front.
Record-Breaking Getaway Forecast Amid Warnings
The port had already predicted its busiest ever Christmas getaway period, estimating that nearly 30,000 cars would make outbound journeys over the festive break. Traffic was forecast to peak between 6am and 1pm from Friday through Sunday.
In response to the crisis, the Port of Dover issued specific guidance. It has asked passengers not to arrive more than two hours before their scheduled sailing and to remain patient. It also urged all port-bound traffic to stay on the main A20 and A2 roads to avoid clogging local routes.
The port confirmed that ferry operators will place customers who miss their sailing due to the long waits onto the next available crossing.
National Travel Chaos as Millions Hit the Roads
The problems at Dover coincide with what is expected to be an exceptionally busy period on UK roads. The RAC has estimated that a staggering 37.5 million car trips are planned between Wednesday and Christmas Eve.
Nick Mullender, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader, warned that the volume of traffic could leave some feeling like the Grinch. "With record numbers predicted to be taking to the roads this Christmas, journeys have the potential to be Grinch-worthy without some careful planning," he said. He emphasised that 2025 is shaping up to be the busiest festive getaway since their records began.
AA patrol expert Shaun Jones offered straightforward advice to drivers: "Plan ahead, check your route and allow extra time. Patience will be your best present this year."
All operators are strongly urging customers to build significant extra time into their travel plans as the disruption continues.
