There is something wonderfully relaxing about travelling by ferry. Unlike the rush of airports, a ferry crossing lets your holiday begin the moment you step on board. You can bring your own car packed with everything you need, stretch your legs, enjoy a meal with a sea view, and arrive refreshed and ready to explore. Whether you are dreaming of Ireland's wild coastlines, a French road trip, or a relaxed break away, ferry travel offers freedom and comfort that is hard to beat.
At Irish Ferries, we have been helping travellers cross the seas for generations. This guide covers everything you need to plan a smooth, enjoyable ferry holiday — from choosing your route to making the most of your time on board.
Why Choose Ferry Travel?
Ferry travel has advantages that other forms of transport simply cannot match. The biggest is freedom: bringing your own car means no baggage limits, no hire costs at your destination, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace once you arrive. You can pack the golf clubs, the bikes, the buggy, and as many suitcases as you like without a second thought.
It is also a far more relaxed way to travel. There are no cramped seats or long security queues — instead, you can move around freely, enjoy the onboard facilities, and take in the views. For many, the crossing is a memorable part of the holiday in its own right.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Explore routes and book your crossing with Irish Ferries and start planning your trip.
Choose the Right Route
Your first decision is where you want to go and which crossing suits you best. Popular routes connect Ireland with Great Britain and mainland Europe, opening up a world of holiday possibilities. If you are heading to or from Ireland and Britain, shorter crossings get you there quickly and are ideal for weekend getaways or onward road trips. For those travelling between Ireland and France, longer crossings let you settle in, enjoy a cabin, and wake up ready to begin your European adventure.
Think about your final destination, your travel dates, and whether you prefer a quick hop or a leisurely overnight sailing. Matching the route to your plans ensures your journey is as smooth as possible.
To compare sailings and find the option that fits your itinerary, view the full timetable at Irish Ferries.
Book Early for the Best Value
As with most travel, planning ahead pays off. Booking your ferry early usually means better prices and a wider choice of sailing times and cabin options, especially during peak seasons like summer holidays and public holidays. Popular crossings and comfortable cabins can fill up quickly, so securing your place in advance gives you both savings and peace of mind.
If your dates are flexible, consider travelling midweek or outside the busiest periods, where you will often find quieter sailings and more attractive fares. A little flexibility can make a real difference to your budget.
Make the Most of Your Cabin and Onboard Comfort
One of the joys of ferry travel, particularly on longer crossings, is the chance to relax in comfort. Booking a private cabin gives you a peaceful space to rest, freshen up, and even sleep on overnight sailings, so you arrive feeling refreshed rather than road-weary. Cabins are especially worthwhile for families, offering a private base for children to nap and unwind.
Beyond your cabin, modern ferries are designed for enjoyment. You will typically find restaurants and cafés, comfortable lounges, shops, and entertainment to keep everyone happy throughout the journey.
To choose the comfort options that suit your journey, see cabin and onboard choices at Irish Ferries and tailor your trip.
Travelling with Family, Pets, or a Camper
Ferries are wonderfully accommodating for all kinds of travellers. Families love the freedom to move around, the family-friendly facilities, and the ability to bring everything they need in the car. If you are travelling with a caravan, motorhome, or camper, ferries make it easy to bring your home-on-wheels along for the ultimate flexible holiday.
Pet owners will be pleased to know that ferry travel is often one of the most convenient and stress-free ways to bring furry family members along. Checking the specific pet policies and facilities in advance ensures a smooth journey for everyone, including your four-legged companions.
Prepare for a Smooth Journey
A little preparation goes a long way towards a relaxed crossing. Arrive at the port in good time to check in without stress, and have your booking confirmation, travel documents, and identification easily to hand. Pack a small bag with essentials — snacks, chargers, entertainment, and anything you will want during the crossing — so you are not searching through the car once on board.
Check the latest travel information before you set off, and give yourself a comfortable buffer for the drive to the port. Starting your journey calm and organised sets the tone for the whole holiday.
Turn the Crossing into Part of the Holiday
It is easy to think of the journey as just a means to an end, but a ferry crossing can be a highlight in itself. Take time to enjoy the experience: watch the coastline slip away from the deck, treat the family to a relaxed meal with a sea view, browse the onboard shops, or simply unwind with a book while the miles pass effortlessly beneath you. Children, in particular, often find the sailing every bit as exciting as the destination.
Building the crossing into your plans — rather than rushing through it — sets a calm, holiday mood before you even arrive. It is one of the things that makes travelling by sea feel special, turning transit time into treasured time together. To find a sailing that gives you space to enjoy the journey, browse crossings and travel options at Irish Ferries.
Set Sail on Your Next Adventure
Planning the perfect ferry holiday comes down to choosing the right route, booking early for the best value, making the most of onboard comfort, and preparing well for a smooth journey. Do that, and you will enjoy a relaxed, flexible trip that begins the moment you drive on board — and a holiday you will remember long after you return home.
Wherever your travels take you, comfortable crossings and unforgettable destinations await. Book your next ferry holiday with Irish Ferries today.