Dublin to
Holyhead Ferry.

The Dublin-Holyhead ferry route is quite popular and has many departures per day. Two ferry companies operate with different types of ships. So, there is something to compare!

The crossings departing from Dublin vary in duration, with fast options taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes and conventional ships taking about 3.5 hours. All ferries operating from Dublin to Holyhead are equipped to transport vehicles.

Fast Ferry or Cruiseferry?

The main choice on this crossing is whether to take the regular ferry service or the fast ferry.

In our opinion, the fast service is the clear winner for convenience and travel time. If you can book the Dublin Swift (Irish Ferries) at a reasonable price (available in our booking module), we highly recommend it.

Are there any downsides to the fast ferry?

The Dublin Swift is more likely to be canceled during a storm compared to the regular ferry services. Those concerned about seasickness might prefer the Cruise Ferries, which are much larger and more stable on the water.

The ferries to Holyhead

Several companies, including Irish Ferries and Stena Line operate the ferry route between Ireland and England.

The crossings departing from Dublin vary in duration, with fast options taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes (not always available) and conventional ships taking about 3.5 hours. 

The ferry services offer various amenities on board, including dining facilities, shops, and comfortable seating.

The route is popular for passenger and freight transport, connecting Ireland with Wales, an essential link for tourism and trade.

Car ferry from Dublin to Britain

All ferries operating between Dublin and the U.K. are equipped to transport vehicles. This allows passengers to board with their cars, which applies to conventional and the high-speed ferry services.

The competition here makes this route also not very expensive for car ferry travel. 

Foot passengers from Dublin to Holyhead

On nearly all crossings, you can board as a foot passenger. When you do a test booking you can easily spot the availability.

Ferry map with the Route From Dublin to Holyhead

The ferry route, spanning a mere 67 miles (108 kilometers), offers the shortest maritime link between Dublin and Holyhead. This direct and efficient connection is advantageous for travelers journeying to the Midlands and Northern England, ensuring a swift and convenient transit.

How long does the ferry to Holyhead take?

The duration of the ferry journey depends on which service you choose.

Irish Ferries offers a fast ferry service that reaches the other side in just 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Their slower cruise ferries take 3 hours and 15 minutes or 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach Holyhead. Stena Line’s crossings consistently take 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Please note that actual sailing times may vary due to currents and weather conditions.

Check-in Times

At Irish Ferries and Stena Line passengers should check in at least 30 minutes before departure.

Stena Line footpassengers must arrive at least 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

We advise allowing extra time in your schedule to accommodate potential traffic congestion.

Booking Tickets for the Holyhead Ferry

You have the option to book directly with the ferry companies or use our ferry comparison tool. This approach allows you to plan your journey just once, after which you'll receive a comprehensive overview of all available sailings and their prices, enabling you to purchase your ticket immediately.

• Purchase directly from Irish Ferries.
• Secure your passage via Stena Line.
• Compare tickets using DirectFerries. (Comparison website)

Alternative Routes

• Dublin to Liverpool
  Available as a night crossing for a unique travel experience.
• Rosslare to Fishguard
  Sailing to the south of Wales, this route offers a scenic journey.
• Rosslare to Pembroke
  Another sailing option to the south of Wales, providing an alternative for travelers in the region.