Cross-channel carrier P&O Ferries has seen strong uptake for the MOANA streamlined border processing system for school groups travelling to France from the Port of Dover by coach.
It is one of a number of ferry companies to be part of the scheme, which launched as a pilot in April 2025 with an eye on getting those groups through the gateway faster.
MOANA was developed via collaboration between the UK and French governments and ferry operators. Traveller information must be submitted to those carriers at least 72 hours in advance by qualifying schools, including details of the driver(s) and other accompanying adults.
A label for each coach is then provided which must be displayed in the windscreen to enable the faster border processing by French authorities, which pre-approve the data to reduce checks at the port.
P&O was the first ferry operator to commit to the MOANA system at Dover and says it has invested resources to ensure that the approach “continues to deliver for customers, removing stress and delays at the border, and offering school customers a smoother travel experience.”
On nine separate dates in November and December 2025, 100% of school groups travelling with P&O used the fast-track approach. On the busiest day of the Christmas period, 86% of those parties opted for the service.
Three months after MOANA launched as a pilot, and before the arrival of the EU Entry/Exit System, a representative of school trips specialist PGL Beyond applauded the initiative, noting how it had reduced coach processing times significantly.
Speaking about P&O Ferries’ experience of the system, Managing Director Louisa Bell says: “We know how important reliability and peace of mind are for schools and operators.
“That is why we are putting resources behind this enhanced border process – because it gives organisers confidence and allows them to deliver a stress-free experience for their customers. While it involves extra administration, the benefits for schools are clear: less worry, fewer delays, and more time focused on the trip itself.”
