Bringing your motorhome on a ferry is one of the easiest ways to explore Ireland and Northern Ireland. Whether you’re heading to Dublin, Belfast, or Rosslare, knowing your ferry options is crucial for a smooth journey. In this guide, we’ll cover the key ferry routes from Great Britain, their durations, major operators, and pet policies to help you plan your adventure.

Ferry Routes from Great Britain for Motorhomes

Great Britain to Ireland

1. Holyhead to Dublin

   • Operator(s): Irish Ferries, Stena Line

   • Journey Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Fastest route to Dublin

2. Liverpool to Dublin

   • Operator(s): P&O Ferries

   • Journey Time: 8 hours

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Relaxed overnight sailing

3. Fishguard to Rosslare

   • Operator(s): Stena Line

   • Journey Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Easy route to the south of Ireland

4. Pembroke to Rosslare

   • Operator(s): Irish Ferries

   • Journey Time: 4 hours

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Alternative southern Ireland route

Great Britain to Northern Ireland

5. Cairnryan to Belfast

   • Operator(s): Stena Line

   • Journey Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Quick access to Northern Ireland

6. Cairnryan to Larne

   • Operator(s): P&O Ferries

   • Journey Time: 2 hours

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Alternative route to Northern Ireland

7. Liverpool to Belfast

   • Operator(s): Stena Line

   • Journey Time: 8 hours

   • Pets: Allowed in vehicles or onboard kennels

   • Ideal for: Overnight journey to Belfast

Choosing the Right Ferry for Your Motorhome

• Price Considerations: Shorter routes like Cairnryan-Belfast tend to be cheaper, while longer crossings like Liverpool-Dublin or Liverpool-Belfast can be more costly but save you a long drive. Ferries to Ireland are not cheap & it’s often cheaper to travel midweek. Nutt Travel is an excellent company who often get the best deal on ferry prices. Check their website for quotes & any current offers

• Cabin Comfort: Overnight crossings offer cabins, which can be beneficial if you want to arrive well-rested.

• Pet Policies: Some routes offer pet-friendly cabins, while others require pets to stay in vehicles or onboard kennels. Stenaline allow pets on deck outside on certain ferries. You will not be permitted on vehicle decks during the crossing to check on pets in cars. Read our blog about pet travel to ensure you have the correct documentation.

• Ease of Boarding: Larger ferries tend to have better facilities for motorhomes, while some smaller crossings may require prior booking for larger vehicles.

Final Thoughts

Taking your motorhome on a ferry opens up a world of travel possibilities, making it easier to explore Ireland and Northern Ireland with comfort and flexibility. Whether you’re planning a short hop to Dublin, a scenic drive through Northern Ireland, or an extended tour of the Emerald Isle, choosing the right ferry route is key to a stress-free journey.

Planning your next ferry trip? Let us know your favourite crossings and tips in the comments! And don’t forget to check www.motorhomeroutes.co.uk for more motorhome travel guides and inspiration.