Four operators illustrate the differences
Stena Line currently states a five-litre limit for spare petrol, diesel or oil in an approved container. TT-Line publishes a much higher figure in its FAQ. Finnlines applies different limits depending on route. DFDS states that cans are prohibited on the Dunkirk–Rosslare service whether full or empty.
| Example | Published operator rule | What to learn from it |
|---|---|---|
| Stena Line | max. 5 L spare fuel in an approved container | container condition is part of the rule |
| TT-Line | up to 60 L in spare fuel cans in its FAQ | operator rules can differ markedly |
| Finnlines | 5 L or 25 L depending on route | route matters, not just brand |
| DFDS Dunkirk–Rosslare | cans expressly prohibited | even “empty” may not be accepted |
Why a fixed ferry table ages quickly
Operators can change conditions or apply different rules to individual routes. Use the examples to understand the issue, then open the operator’s current page for the actual sailing.
A five-step check
- Identify the exact route and operator.
- Open the passenger or dangerous-goods conditions.
- Search for fuel, spare fuel, cans or dangerous goods.
- Note quantity, container type and declaration requirements.
- Contact customer service if wording is unclear.
Frequently asked questions
Are spare fuel cans generally allowed on ferries?
It depends on the operator and route. Published limits vary significantly and some services prohibit cans entirely.
Does a road-transport limit apply on board?
No. The ferry operator’s conditions can be much stricter or simply different.
Should an empty can also be checked?
Yes. Some route rules expressly cover empty cans, so do not assume that “empty” means unrestricted.
Sources for this guide
The following authorities and documents were used for this guide. Where rules change, the current original source takes precedence.
- Stena Line – carrying spare fuel in vehiclesStena LineCurrent operator rule on quantity, approved container and condition for spare fuel
- TT-Line – passenger FAQ on spare fuel on board [German]TT-LineOperator statement on the maximum quantity of spare fuel in cans on passenger ferries
- Finnlines – dangerous goods in passenger vehiclesFinnlinesRoute-specific limits for petrol and diesel in cans on Finnlines passenger services
- DFDS Dunkirk–Rosslare FAQ – carriage of gas and fuelDFDSRoute-specific ban on cans on board, whether full or empty
- Fuel in a spare can: what is permitted? [German]ADACGerman transport quantities, container marking, restraint in vehicles, international travel and ferries