
Begin your journey with the dramatic sight of the Strumble Head Lighthouse perched atop the rugged Welsh cliffs as you depart from the charming port of Fishguard. This historic ferry route from Fishguard to Rosslare serves as a vital and scenic link between the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast and the welcoming shores of Ireland’s southeast, covering a distance of approximately 52 nautical miles (97km). With an average crossing time of 3 hours and 45 minutes, the voyage provides a smooth and unhurried transition across the Irish Sea, allowing you to enjoy sweeping maritime views before the emerald landscapes of County Wexford appear on the horizon.
Planning your crossing is simple, as the route is served exclusively by the premier operator Stena Line. With up to 12 weekly sailings, the service offers consistent daily connections throughout the year. The schedule is designed to accommodate various travel styles, with the earliest ferry (a convenient overnight sailing) departing Fishguard at approximately 01:30, while the final afternoon crossing typically leaves at 14:00. Travelling by sea offers unmatched flexibility, allowing you to bring your car, motorhome, or pets with ease. For those on the early morning service, booking a private cabin ensures you arrive in Ireland refreshed, and with no restrictive baggage limits, you can pack everything you need for your Irish road trip.
Upon arrival at Rosslare Europort, you are at the gateway to a region steeped in Viking history and maritime heritage. Before heading further afield, take a moment to explore the immediate area, such as the pristine sands of Rosslare Strand, the oldest operational lighthouse in the world at Hook Head, or the fascinating Irish National Heritage Park just a short drive away. Rosslare offers exceptional regional connections for onward travel – the port provides immediate access to the N25 and N11 roads, offering a direct route to the medieval streets of Wexford Town, the historic city of Waterford, and the vibrant capital, Dublin. For those without a vehicle, the Rosslare Europort railway station is located right at the terminal, providing frequent rail links that connect you to the rest of the island.
Stay ahead of your travel plans with the latest timetable information. While frequencies can shift based on the season, the general schedule is as follows:
First Sailing: The first ferry typically departs Fishguard at approximately 00:00.
Last Sailing: The final departure of the day usually sets sail at around 14:00(+1).
If no direct sailings are currently available for your chosen dates, please check our Alternative Routes section below to find the next best connection to your destination.
Data last updated 2026
Fares for the Fishguard to Rosslare ferry are dynamic. Booking in advance is the single most effective way to secure the lowest price.
Price Range: Recent averages show tickets priced between £25 and £438.
Typical Fare: Most travelers pay an average of £228.
Best Value: If possible, consider traveling during mid-week or off-peak hours and avoid last-minute bookings at the port.
Fishguard to Rosslare Ferry - FAQs
The crossing time is typically around 3h 30m. Depending on the operator you choose and the weather conditions, this may fluctuate slightly. For real-time durations on your travel date, use our live search tool.
Prices vary based on season, vehicle type, and booking lead time. Averages range from £25 to £438. Please note that traveling with a vehicle (car, motorcycle, or campervan) will incur additional costs compared to foot passenger fares.
Several operators run services, including Stena Line, Steam Packet, Irish Ferries. Together, they offer up to 4 sailings every day, giving you maximum flexibility for your departure.
You can book ferry tickets quickly and securely via Openferry. Our platform compares live prices and schedules across all operators, allowing you to secure an instant e-ticket without the hassle of port queues.
Most ferries on the Fishguard to Rosslare route welcome foot passengers. Availability can change by season, so we recommend confirming and booking your spot in advance.
In most cases, yes. Vehicle spaces are limited and often sell out during peak travel periods, so early reservation is highly recommended.
Some operators are pet-friendly. You may be required to keep your pet in your vehicle or a designated kennel area. Ensure you have a valid pet passport or any required health documentation ready for check-in.