Ferries can be hit by strike action and bad weather, too. There is no rule that says ferry companies must give you a refund if you can't catch a ship due to a strike, but firms are starting to wise up to what customers want.

A spokesman for Brittany Ferries, one of the biggest carriers between England and France, says it will first make every effort to re-route you to your destination by sending your ferry to a different port. But if you are not happy with its suggested route, it will offer you a full refund of your ticket price. Call 01752 648 000 or email customer. feedback@brittanyferries.com

It says most big ferry companies now have the same policy, but there is no guarantee. The likelihood is that if you didn't want to wait for the next ferry to run, you could lose the money you've paid for your ticket.

If the delay is not down to strike action, you may be entitled to compensation under Article 19 of EC Regulation 1177/2010. The reason for the delay must have been within the firm's control, so includes staff shortages or a routine technical fault. The minimum payout is 25 per cent of your ticket price.

To be eligible, your delay must be at least one hour if your journey is up to four hours long, two hours if it's between four hours and eight hours, three hours between eight and 24 hours and six hours if it's over 24 hours.

If the delay is double these times, you will get 50 per cent of your ticket price. The firm must pay you in cash, not vouchers, if you request it.