
If you're planning a trip to Ireland, consider traveling by boat for a unique and scenic experience. The Irish Sea connects Ireland to the UK and other European countries.
Several routes are available for travel to Ireland by boat, including the popular routes from Holyhead in Wales to Dublin and from Pembroke in Wales to Rosslare.
Prices for boat travel to Ireland vary depending on the route and type of vessel, but expect to pay around €50-€100 for a one-way ticket on a ferry.
Traveling to Ireland by Boat
Traveling to Ireland by boat is a convenient and scenic way to arrive in this beautiful country. You can take a ferry from various ports in the UK and France to reach Ireland.
There are several ferry routes from the UK, including Dublin to Holyhead, Rosslare to Fishguard, and Rosslare to Pembroke. These routes offer a relatively short journey, typically taking around 1-2 hours.
If you're traveling from France, you can take a ferry from Rosslare to Cherbourg or Le Havre. These routes are a bit longer, taking around 17 hours.
Here are some of the ferry routes from the UK and France to Ireland:
- Dublin - Holyhead
- Rosslare - Fishguard
- Rosslare - Cherbourg
- Rosslare - Pembroke
- Dublin - Liverpool
- Dublin - Cherbourg
- Cork - Roscoff
- Rosslare - Bilbao
- Rosslare - Le Havre
- Dublin - Douglas
Keep in mind that ferry schedules and routes may vary depending on the time of year and other factors, so it's always a good idea to check with the ferry operator for the latest information.
Holyhead to Dublin Route
The Holyhead to Dublin ferry route is a popular option for travelers. It sails approximately 8 times per day and up to 52 times per week.
The journey takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes, making it a convenient choice for those short on time. You can catch the ferry as early as 01:30 or as late as 22:15.
The cost of the ferry is approximately $451, but please be aware that prices do not include booking fees. This is a relatively standard price for a ferry ride of this duration.
Traveling by ferry is a great way to see the Irish coastline, and the Holyhead to Dublin route offers stunning views of the sea. With multiple sailings per day, you can easily fit this into your travel plans.
Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of year and availability, so it's always a good idea to book in advance to get the best deal.
Cherbourg to Rosslare Route
The Cherbourg to Rosslare ferry route is a great option for those traveling from France to Ireland. The ferry sails approximately 7 times weekly, with a sailing duration of 18 hours 30 minutes.
Prices for the ferry vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route, and sailing times, but on average, a one-way ticket costs around $705, exclusive of booking fees. Keep in mind that prices may change over time.
If you're planning to travel with your vehicle, make sure to check the route options and prices in advance, as they can be affected by various factors.
Cherbourg to Rosslare
The Cherbourg to Rosslare ferry route is a popular option for travelers. The ferry from Cherbourg to Rosslare sails approximately 7 times weekly, with a sailing duration of 18 hours 30 minutes.
Prices for this route vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route, and sailing times, but on average, a one-way ticket costs around $705, exclusive of booking fees.
If you're planning to travel with a vehicle, you'll need to factor in the cost of a suitable ticket, which will also depend on the type of vehicle you're bringing on board.
Republic of Ports
The Republic of Ireland has a fantastic network of ports, each with its own unique charm and advantages.
Dublin Port is the busiest ferry port in Ireland, with multiple daily crossings to north Wales (Holyhead) and a longer route to France. It's known for its quick access to the city center and fast boarding.
You can easily get to and from Dublin city centre, as the port is just 6km (4 miles) east of the city centre.
Rosslare Europort is situated at the end of the N25 in Rosslare Harbour, making it a convenient stop for those traveling to and from the southeastern tip of Ireland.
Rosslare has the highest number of international ferry crossings, with five in total, including routes to Wales, France, and Spain.
Cork Port is a bit smaller, but still offers a great service, connecting Ireland to Brittany, France.
Here's a quick rundown of the main ports in the Republic of Ireland:
Rosslare is an ideal hub for slower European getaways, with routes that include Cherbourg, Dunkirk, and Bilbao.
Ferry Options and Prices
There are several options for ferry travel to Ireland, including car ferries. Irish Ferries, Brittany Ferries, Steam Packet, and Stena Line provide car ferries to Ireland.
The price of the ferry to Ireland varies depending on the route you choose. The Holyhead to Dublin ferry costs £350.80 on average, while the Cherbourg to Rosslare ferry usually costs £546.28.
Prices and Discounts

The price of a ferry to Ireland can fluctuate by route, operator, and season, so it's always a good idea to check for special offers.
You can find the best ferry offers available by visiting a special offers page.
Prices vary depending on the route you choose, with the Holyhead to Dublin ferry costing an average of £350.80 and the Cherbourg to Rosslare ferry usually costing £546.28.
Foot passengers can take advantage of cheaper prices, with the average price for a foot passenger on the Holyhead to Dublin ferry being £121.
The price of a car ferry is generally higher, with the average price for the Holyhead to Dublin ferry being £406.
Can I Bring My Car on a Boat?
If you're planning a road trip to Ireland, you're in luck - you can take your car on the ferry to get there. Irish Ferries, Brittany Ferries, Steam Packet, and Stena Line all offer car ferries to Ireland.

The process is relatively straightforward, and you can book your car ferry ticket in advance to secure a spot. Just be sure to check the ferry schedule and prices to plan your trip accordingly.
Some ferry operators offer special deals and discounts for car travelers, so it's worth shopping around to find the best option for your needs.
Ferries Basics
You can take a ferry to Ireland from five European nations - France, Wales, Scotland, England, and Spain. There are 13 different ferry routes connecting Ireland to these countries.
Ireland and Northern Ireland are connected to these European nations via ferry routes. You can travel to Ireland by ferry from various ports in these countries.
If you're planning to visit Ireland with your vehicle, you're in luck - there is a car ferry to Ireland. Irish Ferries, Brittany Ferries, Steam Packet, and Stena Line provide car ferries to Ireland, making it easy to bring your car along.
Booking and Planning
Booking ferry tickets to Ireland is a relatively straightforward process. You can use Direct Ferries' Deal Finder to compare times and prices.
Booking directly with the ferry companies, such as P&O Ferries, Stena Line, or Irish Ferries, ensures you get competitive prices and access to superior customer service. This is usually the best option for service.
Checking ferry comparison websites like Direct Ferries can help you quickly compare prices across multiple ferry operators. They sometimes feature exclusive deals and promotions, which could also help you secure a better fare.
Booking your ferry tickets early can save you money, as ferry companies release cheaper fares and cabins early. You can plan ahead and finalize your travel plans to snag a cheap ferry ticket.
Keep an eye out for promotions like early-bird discounts, Black Friday deals, or family offers, which can further reduce your travel costs. Sign up for newsletters from the ferry companies or aggregators to get updates on upcoming sales and special offers.
There are approximately 45 daily sailings and up to 303 weekly sailings to Ireland. You can take advantage of Direct Ferries' deal finder for the latest sailing times and availability.
Schedule

Scheduling your Ireland ferry trip is relatively straightforward, but it's essential to keep in mind that ferry schedules can change throughout the year.
There are approximately 45 daily sailings to Ireland, which can increase to up to 303 weekly sailings during the high season.
The high season is a great time to visit Ireland, but be aware that ferry schedules can get quite busy.
You can take advantage of our deal finder for the latest sailing times and availability, making it easier to plan your trip.
Booking Tickets
Booking tickets is a crucial part of planning your trip to Ireland. To get the best deals, you can use Direct Ferries' Deal Finder to compare routes, prices, and operators.
You can also book ferry tickets directly with the ferry companies that operate the route, such as P&O Ferries, Stena Line, DFDS Seaways, Irish Ferries, or Brittany Ferries. This ensures you get competitive prices and access to superior customer service.
Using a ferry aggregator like Direct Ferries can help you quickly compare prices across multiple ferry operators and sometimes feature exclusive deals and promotions.
Booking your ferry tickets early can save you money, as ferry companies release cheaper fares and cabins early. The sooner you can finalize your travel plans, the better your chances of snagging a cheap ferry ticket.
Keep an eye out for promotions like early-bird discounts, Black Friday deals, or family offers that can further reduce your travel costs. You can sign up for newsletters from the ferry companies or aggregators to get updates on upcoming sales and special offers.
Here's a summary of the steps to book your ferry tickets:
- Book direct with the ferry companies.
- Use a ferry aggregator for comparison.
- Plan ahead for the best prices.
- Check for special deals.
Camping in a Campervan
If you're planning to camp in a campervan, you'll need to consider the transportation options to get to your destination. Irish Ferries and Stena Line offer ferry services that allow you to travel with a campervan to Ireland.
To ensure a smooth journey, be sure to check the campervan requirements for each ferry company, as they may vary.
Day
Day trips to Ireland are definitely doable, especially from the Isle of Wight, where you can take a ferry from Douglas to Belfast and then to Dublin.
You can also take a day trip from Scotland, which takes about 2 hours via the Cairnryan to Larne ferry.
Operators
There are 6 ferry companies that operate to Ireland. P&O Irish Sea, Irish Ferries, Brittany Ferries, Steam Packet, and Stena Line are some of the main operators.
You can choose from 45 daily and 303 weekly sailings from Ireland, making it easy to find a time that suits your travel plans.
Irish Ferries operates the Dublin to Cherbourg route, while Brittany Ferries offers the Rosslare to Cherbourg and Cork to Roscoff routes.
Brittany Ferries also operates the Rosslare to Bilbao ferry, which takes around 32 hours and involves 2 nights on-board.
General Information
Ireland is a beautiful island nation located in Northwest Europe, accessible by boat from several countries, including the UK, France, and the Netherlands.

The ferry route from Wales to Ireland, for example, takes around 6-8 hours, depending on the weather conditions.
Ireland has a mild oceanic climate, characterized by cool winters and mild summers, making it an ideal destination for boaters and travelers alike.
The busiest ports in Ireland are Dublin and Cork, with Dublin Port being the largest and busiest port in the country.
You can take a ferry from Dublin to Holyhead in Wales, which is a popular route for both passengers and freight.
The Irish coast is dotted with picturesque harbors and bays, offering stunning scenery and a chance to experience the local culture firsthand.
Some of the most popular ferry routes in Ireland include the ones from Rosslare to Pembroke and from Dublin to Holyhead.
The ferry ride from Ireland to the UK can be a great way to see the country's coastline and enjoy the fresh sea air.
Outro
Traveling to Ireland by boat is a great option for those who prefer a scenic route or want to avoid low-cost airlines. Ireland has a comprehensive international ferry network, making it one of the best-connected destinations in Europe.
Taking a ferry is a great way to see the Irish coastline from a different perspective. The ferry network offers a range of routes to choose from.
With so many options, you're sure to find a ferry that suits your needs and budget. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own, a ferry ride to Ireland is a great way to start your trip.
Ferry travel can be a more leisurely option, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the Irish countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to go to Ireland by boat?
The ferry ride from England to Ireland typically takes between 3 hours 1 minute and 5 hours 15 minutes. Travel time varies depending on the route, operator, and ship chosen.
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