Holyhead to Dublin Ferries
Your complete guide to ferry crossings between Holyhead and Dublin, including timetables, port information, facilities, transport links and nearby accommodation.
Holyhead – Dublin Ferry Route
The Holyhead to Dublin ferry route is one of the busiest and most popular crossings on the Irish Sea, connecting Wales and Ireland in approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. Operated by Irish Ferries and Stena Line, the route offers regular daily sailings year-round, providing a convenient and comfortable way to travel between Britain and Ireland with your vehicle.
Whether you're planning a holiday in Ireland or heading to Wales for a North Wales break, this guide covers everything you need to know about both ports, including facilities, transport links and nearby holiday cottages on Anglesey.
Ferry Operators
Stena Line operates up to 4 daily sailings between Holyhead and Dublin, with a crossing time of approximately 3 hours 15 minutes on the Stena Estrid and Stena Adventurer.
Irish Ferries operates daily sailings between Holyhead and Dublin, including the high-speed Dublin Swift crossing (approx. 2 hours) and the conventional ferry Ulysses.
The Crossing Route
The ferry route crosses the Irish Sea from Holyhead on the Isle of Anglesey to Dublin Port in Ireland — a distance of approximately 100 nautical miles.
Port of Holyhead
Holyhead Port is located on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales and is one of the UK's busiest roll-on/roll-off ferry ports. The port has excellent facilities and is easily accessible by road and rail, with Holyhead railway station located adjacent to the terminal.
Facilities
- Check-in desks and automated kiosks
- Waiting lounges with comfortable seating
- Café and refreshment facilities
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Accessible facilities and assistance
- Short and long-stay car parking
- Fuel station nearby
Transport Links
By Train
Holyhead railway station is adjacent to the port terminal, with direct services from London Euston, Crewe, Chester and Bangor. Journey time from London is approximately 4 hours.
By Road
The port is at the western end of the A55 expressway, which connects to the UK motorway network. From Chester, the journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Sat Nav: LL65 1DQ.
By Bus
Local bus services connect Holyhead town and port with Bangor, Caernarfon and other Anglesey destinations.
Port of Dublin
Dublin Port is Ireland's largest ferry port, located at the mouth of the River Liffey in Dublin city centre. The port offers excellent facilities and is well-connected to Dublin city and the wider Irish road and rail network.
Facilities
- Check-in and priority boarding lanes
- Modern terminal buildings with lounges
- Cafés, shops and duty-free shopping
- Free Wi-Fi in terminal areas
- Accessible facilities and assistance
- Car parking and drop-off areas
- Car hire desks
Transport Links
By Train
Dublin Connolly and Dublin Pearse stations connect to the port via bus or taxi. Irish Rail services connect Dublin to Belfast, Cork, Galway and other Irish cities.
By Road
Dublin Port is easily accessed from the M50 ring road and city centre. The port is approximately 15 minutes from Dublin city centre by car.
By Bus
Dublin Bus services connect the port to the city centre and major transport hubs. The Luas (tram) network is also accessible nearby.
Live Sailing Updates & Timetables
Check real-time sailing status and current timetables for both operators before you travel.
Contact & Enquiries
Port of Holyhead
Holyhead Port Terminal
Anglesey, LL65 1DQ, Wales
Stena Line Port: 01407 764400
Check-in opens 90 minutes before departure and closes 45 minutes prior to sailing.
Port of Dublin
Dublin Port Company
Alexandra Road, Dublin 1, D01 H4C6, Ireland
Dublin Port Co: +353 1 887 6000
Check-in opens 90 minutes before departure and closes 30 minutes prior to sailing.
Holiday Cottages Near Holyhead
Stay on Anglesey, just a short drive from Holyhead port — perfect for combining your ferry crossing with a North Wales holiday.