Holyhead-Dublin Ferry

Compare 2 ferry operators 》7 to 12 daily departures 》fast ferry & cruise ferry

  • The Holyhead-Dublin ferry forms a connection between Wales and Ireland.
  •  You can choose between two ferry companies on this route
  • It is possible to travel with a cruise ferry or a fast ferry. 

Your options

Stena Line Cruiseferry

Sailtime: 3h 15m / 3h 30m

Crossings per day: up to 4

With the Stena Line cruise ferry, you sail on a large and somewhat older vessel. There’s definitely something to do on board, but be sure to bring your own entertainment as well.

Irish Ferries Cruiseferry

Sailtime: 3h 15m / 3h 30m

Crossings per day: up to 4

The cruise ferries of Irish Ferries offer more or less the same experience as those of Stena Line, and they even operate at nearly the same times.

Irish Ferries Fast Ferry

Sailtime: 2u 15m

Crossings per day: see here

The Fast Ferry is the quickest ferry option for traveling between Ireland and Wales. In our opinion, it’s also the best experience.

How to pick your Holyhead-dublin ferry?

Some tips based on our experience

Captain

Book well in advance

Ferry prices increase as more people book the same departure. The earlier you book, the lower the price.

Choose the Cruise Ferry or the Fast Ferry?

When prices are similar, we believe the Fast Ferry from Irish Ferries offers a better experience. The significantly shorter travel time greatly enhances the journey. Additionally, it’s a modern and well-equipped ship. If you're worried about getting seasick, it's wiser to book the cruise ferry, as it is more stable on the water.

Sail with Stena Line or Irish Ferries?

The differences between the cruise ferries of Irish Ferries and Stena Line on the Holyhead-Dublin route are negligible. Both cruise ferries are of similar quality. We recommend letting the price of the crossing be the deciding factor in your choice.

Is an upgrade worth the money?

If you have some extra budget, we believe an upgrade is worth the cost. You get nicer seating and it’s often much quieter. Additionally, you can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea, and on the Dublin Swift, even a few tasty snacks similar to what you'd find in a hotel breakfast room. With Stena Line, the offerings are simpler, but for a 3.5-hour journey, we found the more comfortable seating to be well worth it.