Key facts
- Migrants are increasingly using longer, more dangerous routes across the English Channel from Normandy.
- Attempts from Normandy have risen to 58 this year, up from 30 last year, according to Seine-Maritime authorities.
- These new launch points are approximately 80 miles (128 km) from traditional crossing areas.
- Increased sea sickness, dehydration, and higher waves up to 3.5m (11ft) are risks associated with longer journeys.
- So far in 2026, 19,135 people have crossed the Channel, compared to 32,188 during the same period in 2025.
- UK Home Office stated that joint efforts have prevented over 48,000 crossing attempts and seized 1,100 boats and engines.
Migrants are increasingly attempting to cross the English Channel using longer and more dangerous routes, launching small boats from beaches further south and west of Calais and Dunkirk in Normandy, French authorities have reported. These new departure points are approximately 80 miles (128 km) from the traditional crossing areas, extending journey times and increasing the risks for those on board.
Audrey Baconnais-Rosez, the local government representative in Seine-Maritime, noted a rise in crossing attempts, with authorities managing to intercept about half of them. To counter this, patrols have been increased, with around 50 gendarmes on the coast and nearly 20 police officers in Dieppe and surrounding areas.
Dr Peter Walsh, a senior researcher at the University of Oxford's Migration Observatory, suggested that increased police disruption of boat launches in northern France likely contributes to the shift in routes. He highlighted that longer journeys, potentially 50 miles (80 km) or more, significantly increase the danger.
Marine safety consultant David McFarlane explained that longer voyages heighten the risk of encountering hazardous sea conditions, including rapidly increasing winds and waves up to 3.5 meters (11 feet) high. This raises the likelihood of boats being swamped and poses a severe risk to human life through drowning or exposure.
So far in 2026, 19,135 people have made the Channel crossing, a decrease compared to the 32,188 recorded during the same period in 2025. Tony Smith, former director general of Border Force, commented that smugglers will continue to adapt their methods as long as the business model remains viable and successful landings encourage further attempts.
A UK Home Office spokesperson stated that joint efforts have prevented over 48,000 crossing attempts and seized 1,100 boats and engines. They added that the number of small boat crossings is down significantly this year, marking the lowest for July since 2020. The spokesperson also mentioned a payment-by-results deal with France to increase ground presence on French beaches and deploy a surge unit.