Ferry to Dublin

Compare all available ferry crossings and secure the best deals for your journey. At Openferry, we make it easy to find and book ferry tickets to and from Dublin in just a few clicks.

Because ferry travel can be seasonal, frequencies and departure times often change throughout the year. We recommend using our live search to see the most accurate schedules and information for your travel dates including:

Popular Connections: The port of Dublin connects to several high-traffic destinations, including Holyhead - Dublin, Cherbourg - Dublin, Douglas - Dublin.

Top-Tier Operators: Regular services to and from Dublin are provided by leading carriers like Stena Line, Irish Ferries, Steam Packet.

Amenities vary depending on the specific vessel and operator, but most ferries serving Dublin feature:

Comfortable Seating: Options ranging from standard lounges to premium airplane-style seats.

Dining & Leisure: Onboard cafés and restaurants serving food and drinks.

Travel Essentials: Restroom facilities and, on longer routes, private cabins for added privacy.

Vehicle Transport: Most sailings accommodate cars, motorbikes, and campervans, allowing you to take your own transport to Dublin.

Dublin is currently served by 6 ferry routes operated by 4 ferry operators including Stena Line, Irish Ferries, Steam Packet.

Dublin is well-connected to the UK and continental Europe through its excellent ferry services operating from Dublin Port, located just minutes from the city center. If arriving from elsewhere, Dublin Airport welcomes international travelers with frequent shuttle services connecting to the ferry terminal. From the UK, rail connections to Liverpool or Holyhead offer seamless transfers to Dublin-bound ferries, with crossings typically taking between 2-3 hours depending on your departure point. The port is easily accessible by car via the M50 and Dublin Port Tunnel, with both short and long-term parking facilities available at the terminal. Dublin Bus services regularly connect the city center to the ferry port, with journey times of approximately 15 minutes.

Dublin stands as Ireland's captivating capital where rich history meets contemporary charm along the banks of the River Liffey. This bustling port city seamlessly blends centuries-old architecture with lively cultural quarters, creating an atmosphere that's both welcoming and invigorating. As a key ferry destination on the Irish Sea, Dublin offers travelers a perfect entry point to explore the Emerald Isle. Visitors can expect a genuine Irish experience filled with friendly locals, traditional music, literary heritage, and the unmistakable warmth of Irish hospitality.

Dublin enjoys a mild maritime climate with relatively consistent temperatures year-round, though rainfall can occur in any season. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures, moderate rainfall, and fewer tourists than the peak summer months. St. Patrick's Day in March transforms the city into a spectacular celebration, while summer brings festivals like Bloomsday and the Dublin Horse Show. Ferry services maintain regular schedules throughout the year, with slightly reduced frequency during winter months. Consider visiting during April or October when you'll enjoy reasonable weather while avoiding crowds and securing better accommodation rates.

Dublin serves as an excellent launching point for exploring both Ireland and beyond via its ferry connections. The Isle of Man lies just 2.5 hours away by fast ferry, offering stunning coastal scenery and the famous TT motorcycle race course. Liverpool can be reached in around 8 hours, providing access to northern England's cultural attractions and the Beatles' hometown. Holyhead in Wales is a quick 3-hour journey, serving as a gateway to Snowdonia National Park and Welsh castle country. The Dublin-Cherbourg route connects Ireland directly to France in about 18 hours, making it possible to combine Irish and French travel experiences with the convenience of bringing your own vehicle.

Within minutes of disembarking at Dublin Port, you'll find yourself immersed in a city brimming with attractions. Explore the cobbled streets of Temple Bar with its traditional pubs and live music sessions, or dive into Irish history at the epic EPIC Irish Emigration Museum located in the Docklands area. The Guinness Storehouse offers the quintessential Dublin experience, culminating with panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar. Sample authentic Irish cuisine at historic establishments like The Winding Stair or more casual fare at the bustling food markets in Howth, just north of the port. The Georgian elegance of Merrion Square provides a peaceful contrast to the lively atmosphere of Grafton Street, Dublin's premier shopping district.

Dublin's name derives from 'Dubh Linn,' meaning 'black pool,' referring to the dark tidal pool where the River Poddle met the Liffey near the current site of Dublin Castle. The iconic Samuel Beckett Bridge spanning the Liffey is designed to resemble a harp, Ireland's national symbol, and can rotate 90 degrees to allow tall ships to pass. Dublin boasts more green space per square kilometer than any other European capital, with Phoenix Park being twice the size of New York's Central Park. The city's maritime heritage includes being home to the world's first commuter ferry service, which began operating across Dublin Bay in 1665.