Frequently asked questions about the Puttgarden – Rødby ferry
Booking, tickets & payment
Can I cancel or change my booking?+
Yes. Scandlines gives you a 24-hour cancellation period after booking, during which you can cancel free of charge. The statutory right to cancel that applies to online retail does not apply to passenger transport services. After 24 hours, any refund depends on the fare. Cancel unused tickets through “My Booking” at Scandlines; for partly used tickets, contact the service centre in writing.
You often do not need to change your booking because Standard and Flex tickets are valid for all departures on your travel day. If you do need to make a change, Scandlines customer service can handle it for a fee plus any fare difference. The current fare conditions published by Scandlines are authoritative.
Which payment methods are accepted?+
You can pay online with major credit cards; the booking step shows which payment methods are currently available. At the port, you can pay in cash in euros or Danish kroner, or by card, in the staffed yellow lane. The same currencies and card payments are accepted on board.
Are there discounts for students, older travellers or groups?+
There are no standard age or student discounts on this route; the price depends on your vehicle and ticket type. Booking early and choosing special products such as a day ticket can reduce the cost. See Fares & tickets. Travel groups and coach operators can request group offers from the Scandlines service centre.
How and when will I receive my ferry tickets?+
Immediately after booking online, you will receive a PDF by email containing a QR code and booking number. You can also use the Scandlines app. If you entered your vehicle registration number, the blue lane can identify your vehicle automatically at check-in.
Can I buy a ticket at the port on the day of travel?+
Yes, in the staffed yellow lane or in the terminal, provided there is space on the departure. The port price is considerably higher than the online fare, so booking in advance makes sense if you already know your travel date. See Fares & tickets for the differences.
Can I show my ticket on my phone?+
Yes. The check-in scanners read the QR code directly from your screen, whether it is in the PDF or the app. You do not need a printout as long as the code is clearly visible.
Check-in & travel documents
How early do I need to be at the port?+
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure and opens two hours beforehand. Scandlines recommends allowing at least 30 minutes. See Check-in for the lanes, deadlines and special cases.
Do I need a passport?+
Germany and Denmark are both in the Schengen Area, so there are no routine passport controls. However, spot checks are possible, so every traveller should carry a national identity card or passport. Travellers from outside the EU need a passport and, where applicable, a visa under the general entry requirements.
Is online check-in available?+
No. Check-in takes place at the port: vehicles use the blue or yellow lane, while foot passengers check in inside the terminal. You can make the process easier by entering your vehicle registration number when booking, allowing the blue lane to recognise your vehicle. See Check-in for the full procedure.
What should I do if I arrive late?+
With a Standard or Flex ticket, simply take the next ferry, as both are valid for the entire travel day. A Low Price ticket is tied to the booked departure and expires if you miss it. In that case, speak to staff in the yellow lane; they can usually offer an alternative for an additional charge.
Luggage & vehicles
How much luggage can I take?+
There are no luggage limits or luggage fees: if you are travelling with a vehicle, you can take whatever fits inside it. Foot passengers must carry their own luggage on board; there is no checked-luggage service or luggage storage.
Can I stay in my car during the crossing?+
No. The vehicle deck is closed during the crossing for safety reasons, and all passengers must go to the passenger decks. Take anything you need during the 45-minute journey with you. You return to your vehicle shortly before arrival.
Can I travel with a motorhome or caravan?+
Yes, on every departure. You must enter the correct total length when booking. Vehicles from six metres long and combinations with a trailer use the yellow lane. See Motorhomes & caravans for booking details.
Can I cross the Fehmarn Belt without a car?+
Yes, with a foot-passenger day ticket. You can also take a bicycle for a small supplement. See Foot passengers & bicycles for tickets, check-in and onward connections.
Pets
Can I take my pet on the ferry?+
Yes. Dogs, cats and small pets travel free of charge. See Dogs & pets for where animals may stay on board, the documents required by Denmark and which breeds may not enter the country.
On board
Is Wi-Fi available on board?+
Not on the ferries serving this route; the crossing takes only 45 minutes. Free Wi-Fi is available in the waiting areas at both ports, and mobile coverage usually works on the Fehmarn Belt. Within the EU, there is no roaming surcharge.
What food is available on board?+
There is a Scandlines Food Express serving hot meals, sandwiches and snacks, Scandlines Coffee for coffee and pastries, and an onboard shop. There is no buffet restaurant on this short route.
Timetable & disruptions
How often does the ferry run?+
Usually every 30 minutes during the day, with up to 45 departures in each direction per day. Services are less frequent at night. See the timetable for departures on your travel date.
What happens if my ferry is delayed or cancelled?+
Scandlines provides updates through its website and app and, if you supplied your details, by email or text message. Your ticket remains valid: after a delay, you can travel later using the same booking; after a cancellation, you can take the next scheduled ferry or have the journey changed or refunded free of charge. Port staff can help during major disruptions.
