Get the best Irish Ferries offers from Holyhead to Dublin. Find the cheapest crossings, cabin options, and travel tips for a smooth journey.
Irish Ferries is one of the largest ferry companies, offering services from Holyhead to Dublin plus several destinations in Wales and France. The company was founded in 1973 as Irish Continental Line, operating one ship on the Rosslare to Le Havre route.
Travelling between Wales and Ireland is made easy and enjoyable with Irish Ferries. The Holyhead to Dublin route is one of the most reliable and popular connections across the Irish Sea, serving passengers on foot, with vehicles, or as part of freight operations. This guide covers everything you need to know about the journey, ferry options, onboard facilities, and travel planning.
Overview of the Holyhead to Dublin Route
The route spans roughly 70 miles of open sea, linking Holyhead in Wales with Dublin Port in Ireland. Irish Ferries operates modern ferries designed for comfort, convenience, and efficiency.
- Departure: Holyhead, Wales
- Arrival: Dublin Port, Ireland
- Operator: Irish Ferries
- Passenger Types: Foot passengers, vehicles, motorcycles, freight
Ferries Operating on This Route
| Ferry Name | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| W.B. Yeats | Passenger & Vehicle | Cabins, lounges, restaurants, cinema, kids’ area |
| Dublin Swift | Passenger & Vehicle | Fast day ferry, café, reclining seats, panoramic views |
W.B. Yeats is suited for longer or overnight journeys, with private cabins and extended amenities. Dublin Swift focuses on day crossings, offering efficiency and comfort for short trips.
Onboard Experience
Dining and Relaxation
- Restaurants & Cafés: Casual dining, coffee bars, and snack outlets
- Lounges: Comfortable seating with sea views
- Family Areas: Play zones and child-friendly seating
- Entertainment: Movie screenings, magazines, and shops
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access throughout the ferry
- Accessible toilets and cabins
- Priority boarding for passengers requiring assistance
Choosing Your Travel Type
- Foot Passenger – Ideal for travellers without vehicles. Lounges, cafés, and panoramic decks enhance comfort.
- Vehicle Passenger – Travel with cars, motorcycles, or campers. Dedicated vehicle decks allow safe and easy boarding.
- Freight / Commercial – Freight lanes provide smooth loading and unloading for commercial goods.
“Travelling on the W.B. Yeats is seamless, whether with a car or on foot. The onboard amenities make the crossing feel like a mini-cruise.”
Planning Your Journey
Boarding Tips
- Arrive 90 minutes before departure for vehicle passengers; 60 minutes for foot passengers.
- Check terminal signage for parking, boarding gates, and check-in desks.
- Online check-in saves time and streamlines the boarding process.
Travel Essentials
- Bring a valid ID or passport.
- Ensure vehicle documents are ready if travelling with a car.
- Carry motion sickness remedies if prone to seasickness.
Why Choose Irish Ferries?
- Regular, daily crossings
- Modern ferries with up-to-date safety standards
- Onboard facilities for families, solo travellers, and vehicle passengers
- Friendly, helpful staff supporting accessibility and customer needs
Additional Travel Tips
- Book in advance to secure preferred seating or cabin options.
- Check the weather, as sea conditions may affect comfort.
- Plan onward travel: Dublin Port is near the city centre, Holyhead has strong road connections.
- Travel off-peak for a quieter experience.
Related Pages
- W.B. Yeats Ferry – Cabins, amenities, and onboard experience
- Dublin Swift Ferry – Fast day crossings and seating options
- Holyhead to Dublin Ferry