Holyhead to Dublin Ferry
Holyhead–Dublin is the busiest ferry route between Britain and Ireland — 4 million passengers a year. Two operators run it: Irish Ferries + Stena Line. Fast ferries take 2h in summer; conventional ferries 3h 15m. Overnight sleeper ferries run 8h with cabins. Compared to flying (LHR/MAN → DUB), the ferry wins on: car-with-you, pet transport, luggage, and the fun of the crossing. Loses on: time.
Crossing time
3h 15m
Price range
EUR 35-80 foot passenger · EUR 90-260 car with driver
Cars
Allowed
Frequency
8+ daily crossings between two operators · 24h
Ferry operators on this route
Irish FerriesStena Line
Year-round · peak summer + Christmas · book 4-6 weeks ahead
Best for
- 1Bringing car + luggage to Ireland (flying UK-IE with car impossible)
- 2Traveling with pets (no quarantine as Ireland + UK share PET scheme)
- 3Overnight sleeper connection London → Dublin without flying
- 4Groups of 4+ (car ferry cheaper than 4 flight tickets)
Booking + prices
Prices
EUR 35-80 foot passenger · EUR 90-260 car with driver
Vehicle allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
How to book
Direct Ferries covers this route with live pricing from both operators.
Hotels either side of the crossing
Find hotels in Holyhead
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Find hotels in Dublin
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FAQs — Holyhead to Dublin
Irish Ferries or Stena Line — which is better?
Both similar quality. Irish Ferries has the Ulysses (biggest ferry). Stena Line has the Adventurer. Price usually within 5%. Check Direct Ferries for live comparison.
How early should I book?
4-6 weeks minimum for peak season (July-August, Christmas). 2-3 weeks off-peak. Fast ferries sell out first.
Can I bring my car for free with foot ticket?
No — cars need a vehicle ticket (EUR 90-260 return depending on season). Foot passenger tickets are separate.