
Depart from the welcoming shores of the Sunny South East and watch the Tuskar Rock Lighthouse flash on the horizon as you head towards the emerald cliffs of Wales. The ferry route from Rosslare to Fishguard is a popular and historic passage that connects County Wexford with the rugged Pembrokeshire coastline, covering approximately 52 nautical miles (96km). With an average crossing time of 3 hours and 30 minutes, it remains one of the fastest and most reliable ways to travel between Ireland and South Wales, offering a peaceful interlude where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and sweeping maritime views.
Planning your journey across the Irish Sea is simple, as the route is served exclusively by the premier operator Stena Line. Providing a consistent service throughout the year, the operator offers around 12 weekly sailings, typically with two departures most days. The schedule is tailored for convenience, with the first ferry leaving Rosslare Port at approximately 08:15 and the final crossing of the evening at 19:30. Travelling by ferry offers total flexibility for those with cars, motorhomes, or pets, and because there are no restrictive baggage limits, you are free to bring everything you need for your UK road trip. For added comfort, private cabins and pet-friendly lounges are available to ensure a relaxing voyage.
Upon arrival at Fishguard Harbour, you are perfectly positioned at the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Before continuing your journey, take the time to visit the Last Invasion Tapestry in Fishguard Town Hall, which commemorates the historic events of 1797, or enjoy a stroll through the picturesque Lower Town Harbour, a famous filming location for classic cinema. Fishguard offers excellent regional connections for onward travel – the port provides immediate access to the A40, a major trunk road that links you directly to Swansea, Cardiff, and the M4 motorway for travel towards London. Additionally, the Fishguard Harbour railway station is integrated with the terminal, offering coordinated 'boat train' services that connect you to the wider UK rail network.
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 Rosslare at approximately 00:00.
Last Sailing: The final departure of the day usually sets sail at around 20:45.
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 Rosslare to Fishguard 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 €30 and €487.
Typical Fare: Most travelers pay an average of €260.
Best Value: If possible, consider traveling during mid-week or off-peak hours and avoid last-minute bookings at the port.
Rosslare to Fishguard 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 €30 to €487. 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, Irish Ferries, Steam Packet. Together, they offer up to 2 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 Rosslare to Fishguard 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.