Whether you’re heading to Norway, the Isle of Man or simply crossing into Europe, taking a motorcycle onto a ferry for the first time can feel surprisingly intimidating.
From riding onto a steel deck to securing your bike while the ship moves beneath you, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsure.
The good news?
Ferry crews handle motorcycles every day. Once you’ve done it once, you’ll probably wonder what all the worry was about.
These are the practical tips we learned while touring Europe on a Yamaha Ténéré 700, along with advice shared by experienced riders in the MotoKind community.
What should you expect when taking a motorcycle on a ferry?
Quick Ferry Tips
- Ride carefully to the front of the queue when directed.
- Take your time on wet steel ramps.
- Leave your bike in first gear.
- Carry your own soft loop tie-down straps.
- Secure the front brake before leaving the bike.
- Trust the crew—they do this every day.
- Don’t forget to enjoy the crossing.
1. Don’t Be Afraid to Filter to the Front
One of the biggest surprises for first-time ferry users is where motorcycles are expected to wait.
It often feels wrong to ride past long queues of cars, caravans and motorhomes, but on most ferry crossings this is exactly what staff expect motorcycles to do.
MotoKind Field Note
On many ferry routes, motorcycles are loaded separately and tucked into spaces larger vehicles can’t use. If you’re unsure, wait for a member of staff—they’ll usually wave you forward.
2. Take Your Time on the Ramp
The loading ramp can be the part riders worry about most.
Steel can become slippery, particularly in wet weather or where sea spray, diesel residue or mud have built up.
Ride steadily.
Avoid sharp braking.
Keep your movements smooth.
Once onboard, simply follow the crew’s instructions. They’ll position you where they want the bike.
3. Park Like the Crew Suggest
Once you’re in position:
- Leave the bike in first gear.
- Put the side stand down if instructed.
- Switch the engine off.
- Wait until the crew are ready before securing the bike.
Every ferry operates slightly differently, so always follow local instructions rather than assuming every crossing is the same.
4. Carry Your Own Tie-Downs
Many ferries provide straps.
Some are spotless.
Some have clearly lived a hard life.
We always travel with:
- two soft loop tie-down straps
- a rear brake strap (or a simple Velcro strap for the front brake)
Using your own soft loops helps protect paintwork and gives you confidence that everything is exactly where you want it.
A small amount of suspension compression is usually enough—you don’t need to squash the bike completely.
5. Then Go and Enjoy the Journey
Once your bike is secured, that’s your job done.
Head upstairs.
Grab a coffee.
Warm up.
Take in the view.
Some of the best photographs from a motorcycle tour aren’t taken on mountain roads—they’re taken from the deck of a ferry leaving the coast behind.
In countries like Norway, ferries quickly stop feeling like interruptions.
They become part of the adventure.
Things First-Time Riders Often Ask
Should I stay with my motorcycle?
Normally, no. Once boarding has finished you’ll usually head to the passenger areas until the ferry docks. Crew will let you know if anything is different.
What if I don’t know how to strap my bike down?
Don’t panic.
If you’re unsure, ask a member of the crew. They help motorcyclists every day and are usually happy to guide you.
Should I carry my own straps?
Yes.
You may never need them, but they take very little space and give you much more flexibility.
Are ferries difficult?
Honestly?
Most riders find their first crossing is the only one they worry about.
After that, it simply becomes another enjoyable part of the journey.
Help Us Keep This Guide Accurate
MotoKind is built on real rider experience.
If you’ve used a ferry recently, we’d love to hear about it.
Perhaps the crew were particularly helpful.
Maybe the ferry had dedicated motorcycle bays.
Perhaps you discovered something that made the crossing easier.
Continue Your Norway Tour
- Motorcycle Ferry Crossings: A Rider’s Guide to Stress-Free Sea Travel
- Hytte or Tent? What We Learned About Motorcycle Camping in Norway
- Fuel Stops in Norway: What Every Motorcycle Rider Should Know
- Riding Through Norway’s Mountain Tunnels
- Don’t Make the Same Mistake We Did: Keeping Your Riding Gear Safe in Norway
- Looking After Your Chain on a Long Motorcycle Tour