Pet Carriage Policy
- All dogs must be on a non-retractable leash while on board for the safety of your animal, other passengers, and our crew.
- Cats are welcome on board but must remain in a portable carrier at all times.
- Dogs are welcome on all outside passenger decks and in the designated pet lounge for passengers with a reservation.
- Dogs are not permitted on the seats and must not obstruct the emergency exits.
- Dogs are not allowed in any food or beverage areas (for hygiene reasons). *Service dogs are permitted in all passenger areas.
- Owners must keep dogs under control at all times and avoid contact with other passengers or the vessel’s crew unless invited.
- Please stay with your pet at all times, other than when they are left in a vehicle or kennel.
- If your dog is unsociable or nervous when in an unfamiliar or busy environments, we strongly advise that owners fit a muzzle while on board.
- Your pet is permitted to stay in your car if it is a happier environment for them. Please leave all animals with sufficient airflow, water and required comforts when left in the car.
- Passengers are prohibited access to vehicle decks during the voyage. Crew members will monitor the vehicle deck and will initiate an announcement in the event it appears to them that a pet is uncomfortable. NFL cannot guarantee that crew members will be able to observe or identify any or all circumstances where a pet is uncomfortable or in distress.
- To avoid accidents onboard, please allow sufficient time to exercise your dog before arriving at the terminal and boarding the vessel.
- Should your dog have an accident on the ferry, please act responsibly and clear away the mess as soon as possible. Waste bags are available in the lounge area and should you need assistance, please notify a member of our staff.
- Pet owners shall be liable for any losses, costs, or expenses incurred for any damages caused by their pet, including injury to other passengers, damage to the vessel or premises i.e. furnishings, flooring, or equipment, or the property of other passengers, crew, or staff.
- NFL reserves the right to refuse carriage to pets exhibiting aggressive behavior or those deemed unfit for travel.
Travelling with Pets
There are a variety of travel options for pets when sailing with Northumberland Ferries.