Ferry Ships on the Holyhead–Dublin Route
From the fast catamaran to the large cruise-style vessels, here you can discover the ships that make the crossing.
Ferries
Ulysses
The Ulysses is one of the largest car ferries in the world, offering plenty of space and comfort. With restaurants, lounges, and stable sailing, it’s ideal for a relaxed crossing in all weather.
Dublin Swift
This high-speed catamaran cuts travel time in half, making it perfect for a quick trip. Because of its smaller size, it’s more sensitive to rough seas and can be cancelled in storms.
James Joyce
A Ro-Pax ferry operated by Irish Ferries on the Dublin–Holyhead route. It provides a balance of passenger comfort and freight service, with lounges and facilities for shorter sea crossings.
Stena Adventurer
One of the largest ferries on the Irish Sea, offering restaurants, bars, shops and plenty of space for vehicles. Known for its stability and reliable service, making it a popular choice for the Holyhead–Dublin crossing.
Stena Estrid
The newest generation Stena Line ferry on this route, featuring modern Scandinavian design and bright, spacious interiors. With excellent passenger facilities and high capacity, it offers comfort for both leisure and freight travel.
The four cruise ferries between the UK and Ireland don’t differ much from one another. The only truly different ferry experience is the catamaran ferry Dublin Swift. It’s simply much faster, and although the interior is very modern, there are slightly fewer facilities on board compared to the larger ships. But you might not need them anyway if you’re across the Irish Sea in just two hours.
One possible drawback is that the Dublin Swift is taken out of service earlier in stormy weather. In recent winters, it has also been suspended more often on this route. This contrasts with the large and heavy car ferries, which continue to operate between Holyhead and Dublin throughout the entire winter.
Answers to common questions about the ferries on the Holyhead to Dublin route.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the ships?
The cruise ferries are large, stable, and equipped with more facilities. There are differences between the individual cruise ferries, but the general level of comfort and onboard services is comparable. Stena Line’s vessels are often considered slightly more modern, especially the Stena Estrid.
The Fast Ferry is modern and much quicker, but also smaller. Its interior is fresh and stylish, though there is less to do on board because the crossing is so short.
Is there Wi-Fi on board?
Yes. All ships offer at least basic Wi-Fi. You can upgrade the speed or extend your access once on board.
Are the ferries child-friendly?
Yes, the cruise ferries have play areas and family spaces, which makes them particularly suitable for younger children. You will also see families on the Dublin Swift catamaran, but the onboard facilities are more limited.
Is a lounge upgrade worth it?
Yes, especially if you value a quieter environment and more comfortable seating.
With Irish Ferries, lounge access includes complimentary snacks and drinks, which is generous enough to count as a light brunch or lunch. On our crossings with both Stena Line and Irish Ferries, we found the lounge upgrade to be well worth the price.
