Irish Ferries
Holyead-Dublin

Irish Ferries operates the route between Holyhead and Dublin with two large car ferries and a fast catamaran.

When you think of Ireland, you might quickly think of Irish Ferries, a popular operator you’ll certainly consider if you’re planning a trip to Ireland. On the shortest route to Dublin, Irish Ferries operates three ships from Holyhead. The crossing takes between 2 and 3.5 hours and can be pretty affordable if booked in advance.

Price & Tickets

Irish Ferries uses a dynamic pricing system, so fares tend to rise as the ferry fills up or as the departure date approaches. You can book directly through the Irish Ferries website or via comparison platforms such as Direct Ferries. While tickets are also available for purchase at the terminal, booking in advance is generally cheaper and ensures availability.

  • By car
    Tickets for the ferry start at around £119 for a one-way trip with a car and one passenger. This starting price is slightly lower than with Stena Line.
  • Foot passengers & cyclists
    If you’re travelling as a foot passenger or cyclist, you’ll pay around £40 if you book in advance.

Irish Ferries Terminal Holyhead Port

The Irish Ferries terminal is shared with that of Stena Line. The terminal is located at the entrance of Holyhead Port, which is situated in the center of the town. The port lies at the end of the A55.

Monday - Sunday: 06:30 - 17:00 & 18:30 - 02:30

Arriving on time helps ensure a smooth start to your voyage

Check-in Times

Passengers are advised to arrive at the port on time to ensure a smooth and efficient boarding process. Please note that check-in closes before departure, and late arrivals may not be accepted. We recommend allowing extra time for potential traffic or security checks.

  • Check-in for vehicles closes 30 minutes before departure
  • Check-in for foot or cycling  passengers closes 30 minutes before departure
  • Check-in for travellers in coach closes 1 hour before departure
Cars driving through ferry check-in gate

Good to Know about Irish Ferries

Practical Information

  • With Irish Ferries, pets are welcome on board provided they are booked in advance and comply with EU and UK travel regulations. Depending on the vessel, pets can stay in a designated Pet Den, on an outside deck, or in a Pet Cabin (maximum two pets per cabin). They must remain in a suitable carrier or crate at all times and are not allowed in passenger areas; certain breeds may also be required to wear a muzzle.
  • Regarding luggage, passengers travelling with a vehicle may bring as much baggage as can be safely stored in or on their car. Foot passengers are generally allowed two pieces of luggage of up to 22 kg each, which must be checked in before boarding and collected upon arrival. As checked baggage is not accessible during the voyage, it’s recommended to keep essential items in your hand luggage.

Irish Ferries Terminal Dublin Port

Irish Ferries and Stena Line have separate terminals in Dublin. The Irish Ferries terminal can be reached at the address below.

Discover the Vessels of Irish Ferries

Ferries Irish Ferries

Irish Ferries operates on the Holyhead–Dublin route with three different ships, including the fast catamaran Dublin Swift.

Oscar Wilde ferry at sea

James Joyce

Passenger and car ferry
Cruise ferry

Cruise ferry moored in Holyhead harbour

Ulysses

Passenger and car ferry
Cruise ferry

Fast white catamaran ferry sailing across the Irish Sea

Dublin Swift

Passenger and car ferry
Fast ferry

Wifi Irish Ferries

At Irish Ferries, you can enjoy 20 minutes of free Wi-Fi on the Holyhead-Dublin route. After that, you can switch to paid Wi-Fi. The costs are:
1 hour = €5
2 hours = €7.50
4 hours = €15

To avoid any additional charges, it is recommended that you turn off data roaming and use Wi-Fi instead.

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