What Is the Cheapest Way to Get to Ireland from the UK by Ferry?

Ferry Travel to Ireland: A Budget-Friendly Adventure Across the Irish Sea

Ferry travel between the UK and Ireland has long been a favourite amongst savvy travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and value. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, transporting a motorhome, or taking your car for a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, travelling by ferry offers a flexible and stress-free alternative to flying. It’s no wonder thousands of UK holidaymakers opt for the ferry each year to enjoy the freedom of their own wheels without the hassle of airport queues or luggage limits.

Three key operators dominate this well-trodden route: Irish Ferries, Stena Line, and booking platform Aferry. Each provides multiple daily crossings between major UK ports like Holyhead, Liverpool, and Cairnryan to popular Irish destinations such as Dublin, Rosslare, and Belfast. With reliable services, modern onboard facilities, and a range of ticket options to suit every budget, these operators make it easy to tailor your journey to your travel style and schedule.

One of the major perks of taking the ferry is the added convenience it brings, particularly for motorists. From families towing caravans to campers venturing on an Irish road trip, ferries offer unmatched freedom and flexibility. No car hire queues, no baggage restrictions, just drive on, sail across, and drive off ready to explore.

At My Favourite Voucher Codes, we know that every saving counts. That’s why we work hard to bring you the very latest discount codes, ferry deals, and travel offers, all in one place. Our team regularly updates our listings with genuine, verified promo codes that help you cut costs without cutting corners. Whether you're booking in advance or chasing a last-minute escape, we've got you covered with exclusive savings that make your ferry adventure to Ireland even more affordable.

Choosing the Right Ferry Option: Foot, Car, Caravan or Motorhome?

When planning a ferry trip from the UK to Ireland, the first big decision is how you’ll travel. Your mode of transport not only affects your overall cost, but also your convenience and flexibility once you arrive. Thankfully, there are options to suit every kind of traveller and budget.

Foot passengers are the most budget-friendly group. Ideal for solo travellers or those planning to use public transport in Ireland, foot passenger fares are often the cheapest. You simply walk onboard with your luggage and relax while enjoying onboard amenities, perfect for city breaks in Dublin or Belfast.

Travelling with a car is the most popular option, especially for families or road-trippers. It allows you to take everything you need with you, avoid airport baggage limits, and enjoy the freedom to explore Ireland’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. Prices are typically based on the vehicle size, number of passengers, and route, with discounts available for early bookings or midweek crossings.

Motorhome travellers benefit from great flexibility and the ability to combine transport and accommodation in one. Ferry fares for motorhomes are usually higher due to the vehicle size but can offer excellent value for long stays or multi-stop road trips.

Caravans towed by cars are also welcome on most ferry routes. Stena Line and Irish Ferries both provide caravan-friendly options, often with bundled deals during peak seasons. Expect pricing to reflect the total length of your vehicle combination and passenger numbers.

To compare routes and prices across all operators, Aferry is an invaluable tool. Acting as a ferry comparison platform, it allows you to view side-by-side prices for Irish Ferries, Stena Line, and others, ensuring you find the best deal for your travel type. Whether you’re after the fastest sailing or the lowest fare, Aferry takes the guesswork out of ferry bookings, especially when combined with our latest voucher codes.

Your Questions Answered: Cheapest Ways to Travel to Ireland by Ferry

1. What is the cheapest way to get to Ireland from the UK by car?

For budget-conscious drivers, the most cost-effective ferry route is typically from Holyhead to Dublin, served by both Irish Ferries and Stena Line. This popular route offers multiple daily sailings, and if booked early or during promotional windows, prices can start from around £120 return for a car and two passengers.

To save more, consider travelling midweek, Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer lower fares. Booking several weeks in advance, especially outside of school holidays, can unlock additional discounts. Also, don’t forget to check our ferry voucher codes for exclusive offers on car bookings that aren’t advertised elsewhere.

2. What is the cheapest ferry to Ireland from the UK?

The cheapest ferry fares are usually found on short crossings with high-frequency sailings. Stena Line’s Holyhead to Dublin route and Irish Ferries’ Pembroke to Rosslare are consistently affordable, particularly when travelling as a foot passenger or with a small car.

Aferry, a leading comparison site, often highlights return journeys from as low as £39 per person when booked well in advance. We regularly feature voucher codes for both Stena Line and Irish Ferries that provide extra savings, such as 10–20% off selected crossings or deals on onboard upgrades.

3. What is the cheapest ferry to Ireland with a motorhome?

Motorhome ferry fares can vary depending on the size of your vehicle and the time of year. However, some of the best deals are available via Liverpool to Belfast or Fishguard to Rosslare, particularly when booked outside the summer rush.

Look out for seasonal promotions, Irish Ferries has previously offered 25% off motorhome fares during autumn bookings. Stena Line also runs regular camper van discounts, especially for crossings midweek. For an extra edge, check our motorhome-friendly voucher codes to stack further savings onto these deals.

4. How much does it cost to take a caravan to Ireland?

Taking a caravan to Ireland by ferry is a great option for touring families. Costs generally depend on the combined length of your car and caravan. Expect to pay from £180–£250 return, depending on the route and travel dates.

Fares are usually higher in peak months (July–August), so travelling in spring or autumn can significantly reduce your bill. Both Irish Ferries and Stena Line offer caravan bundle packages that include ferry fare and holiday park discounts. Early booking and travelling on off-peak days will help maximise your savings.

5. Where can I find the cheapest ferry prices for motorhomes?

To secure the best price for a motorhome ferry crossing, start by comparing options on Aferry.co.uk. Their platform lets you filter by vehicle type, sailing duration, and price, giving you a clear overview of your options in seconds.

Once you’ve narrowed down your route, visit our My Favourite Voucher Codes ferry section for additional promo codes. We frequently update offers for motorhome discounts, including exclusive partner promotions you won’t find elsewhere. Combining these codes with flexible travel dates can easily shave £50 or more off your total booking.

6. What is the cheapest day to get a ferry?

Timing is everything when it comes to saving on ferry crossings. Statistically, midweek departures, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to offer the best value. Fridays, Sundays, and bank holiday weekends are usually more expensive due to high demand.

Seasonality also plays a role. Avoid travelling during the school summer holidays or Christmas period if you’re looking to save. Bookings made 6–8 weeks in advance often benefit from ‘early bird’ pricing. To optimise your chances, use comparison tools like Aferry, and then head to our ferry discount section for codes that apply to specific days or flexible fare options. With the right timing and a valid voucher code, you can enjoy return ferry fares at a fraction of the standard price.

Top Money-Saving Tips for Ferry Travel to Ireland

Whether you're heading off on a short break or embarking on a longer road trip across Ireland, getting a great deal on your ferry fare can free up more money for your adventure. Our savings experts have pulled together the smartest ways to trim your travel costs, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

1. Book Early for the Best Prices

Ferry operators like Stena Line and Irish Ferries often release their cheapest fares well in advance. Booking early, ideally 2 to 3 months before departure—can unlock ‘early bird’ rates and avoid the price hikes that typically occur closer to travel dates. Early booking is especially important if you’re travelling with a caravan or motorhome, as space can fill quickly during peak months.

2. Travel Midweek to Avoid Peak Prices

If you can be flexible with your schedule, sailing midweek, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays—can significantly reduce your fare. Weekend crossings are in high demand and often come with a premium price tag. Use this to your advantage by shifting your plans to off-peak times.

3. Use Verified Voucher Codes

Before you confirm your booking, make sure to browse our latest ferry discount voucher codes. At My Favourite Voucher Codes, we regularly feature exclusive deals such as percentage discounts, onboard upgrade offers, and family travel bundles. Applying a valid promo code at checkout could save you up to 20% or more, so never book without checking first.

4. Compare Routes and Departure Ports

Sometimes, simply switching departure ports can lead to major savings. For example, travelling from Fishguard to Rosslare might be more economical than Holyhead to Dublin, depending on the season. Use comparison platforms like Aferry to view fares across multiple routes, and consider ports that are slightly further afield if they result in cheaper crossings.

5. Join Ferry or Caravan Loyalty Schemes

Frequent travellers should consider joining loyalty programmes such as the Stena Line Extra Loyalty Club or caravan travel organisations like The Camping and Caravanning Club. These schemes often offer exclusive discounts, priority boarding, and reward points that can be used toward future sailings.

6. Travel Light and Avoid Extras

Some operators charge additional fees for extras like reserved seating, priority boarding, or meals. Unless essential, consider skipping the add-ons. Bringing your own food and opting for standard boarding can reduce costs without impacting your experience.

With a bit of planning, flexibility, and the right promo code, ferry travel to Ireland can be surprisingly affordable, leaving you with more to spend on making unforgettable memories.

Ferry Routes and Timetables: Your Key Crossings to Ireland

With several popular ferry routes linking the UK and Ireland, travellers can choose the crossing that best suits their location, budget, and travel plans. Below, we break down the main ferry connections, including typical journey times, fare estimates, and operator details. Whether you're sailing with a car, caravan or as a foot passenger, knowing your route options helps ensure a smoother, cheaper journey.

Holyhead to Dublin

One of the busiest and most convenient routes, the Holyhead–Dublin crossing is operated by both Irish Ferries and Stena Line. Crossings run up to six times daily in each direction, with a crossing time of around 3 hours 15 minutes.

Prices start from approximately £39 return for foot passengers and £120–£150 return for cars, depending on the season. This route is ideal for those in North and Central England or North Wales.

Pembroke to Rosslare

This scenic route is offered by Irish Ferries and runs twice daily, taking approximately 4 hours each way. It's an excellent option for travellers in South Wales and the West Country.

Fares begin at around £130 return for a car and two passengers, with discounts occasionally available for caravans and longer vehicles.

Fishguard to Rosslare

Operated by Stena Line, this route offers two daily sailings and takes roughly 3.5 hours. It’s another great southern route, especially for those near Cardiff or Bristol looking for cost-effective travel.

Typical fares start from £35 for foot passengers and £110–£140 for cars. Seasonal promotions are often available for campervans and families.

Cairnryan to Belfast

This northern route is perfect for Scottish travellers. Operated by both Stena Line and P&O Ferries, it runs up to seven times daily and takes just 2 hours 15 minutes.

It’s one of the fastest crossings to Ireland, with return prices for vehicles typically ranging from £100–£160. High frequency and competitive fares make it a top choice from the north.

Liverpool to Belfast

Operated exclusively by Stena Line, this longer crossing takes about 8 hours and usually departs overnight. It's ideal for those in North West England and offers the convenience of sleeping through the journey.

Return fares for cars and two adults average around £160–£200, depending on cabin preferences and travel time. The overnight service can often save on accommodation costs.

Using Aferry for Quick Comparisons

To make route selection even easier, Aferry is a top comparison platform that brings together schedules and fares from all major ferry operators. Simply input your travel dates, route preferences, and vehicle details to instantly view the best deals across multiple operators. It’s a brilliant way to find the lowest price at a glance, especially when combined with our latest ferry discount codes.

How to Use Our Ferry Voucher Codes for the Best Savings

Applying a ferry discount code is a simple but powerful way to reduce the cost of your trip to Ireland. Whether you’re travelling with a car, caravan, or motorhome, or simply booking as a foot passenger—our dedicated pages for each major operator make it easy to save.

1. Irish Ferries Voucher Codes

To save on Irish Ferries crossings, head to our dedicated Irish Ferries Voucher Codes page. There you'll find up-to-date promotional offers including percentage discounts, early booking deals, and occasional free upgrades. Simply click the offer you want, copy the code (if provided), and paste it into the promo code box during checkout on the Irish Ferries website. Typical savings can range from 10% to 20% depending on the time of year.

2. Stena Line Voucher Codes

For deals on routes such as Holyhead–Dublin or Cairnryan–Belfast, visit our Stena Line Voucher Codes section. From discounted vehicle fares to cabin upgrades, these codes are easy to apply at the final stage of your Stena Line booking. We often feature exclusive savings not available elsewhere, recent examples include 15% off midweek sailings and kids go free offers.

3. Aferry Voucher Codes

Aferry is a go-to platform for comparing prices across all ferry operators, and with our Aferry Voucher Codes, you can save even more. These codes are applied at checkout on Aferry.co.uk and can unlock site-wide savings across routes to Ireland. Discounts can reach up to 20% off selected bookings, especially for early-bird or flexible ticket options.

All our codes are manually tested and verified by our team before going live. We update them regularly to ensure you’re only seeing the most reliable, working offers, so you can book with confidence and enjoy genuine savings every time.

Additional Considerations for Ferry Travellers

Planning a ferry journey to Ireland involves more than just booking a ticket, it’s about knowing what to expect onboard and preparing for specific travel needs. Whether you're travelling with pets, require accessibility support, or simply want a comfortable experience at sea, here are some helpful considerations before you set sail.

Travelling with Pets

Most major ferry operator, such as Irish Ferries and Stena Line, allow pets to travel, but policies vary. Small animals can often travel in onboard kennels or remain in the car (depending on the weather and route), while guide dogs are always permitted to accompany passengers. Charges typically range from £15–£30 each way. It's essential to pre-book pet spaces as they are limited and may sell out, especially during peak times.

Accessibility Support

Ferry operators are committed to providing a safe and accessible journey for all passengers. Services for disabled travellers may include priority boarding, accessible toilets, lift access to all decks, and reserved seating. It’s best to contact the ferry company in advance to arrange any required assistance. Most booking platforms, including Aferry, also allow you to declare accessibility needs during the checkout process.

Onboard Amenities

Modern ferries are well-equipped to make your crossing comfortable and enjoyable. You’ll find restaurants, cafés, bars, duty-free shopping, children’s play areas, and free Wi-Fi on most services. For longer or overnight crossings, private cabins can be booked for added privacy and rest, though these do come with an extra fee (typically from £30–£60 depending on the route).

Lounges with reclining seats or access to premium quiet zones are also available on some routes for a small supplement. If you're looking to travel in style or want to relax before driving on arrival, it may be worth the upgrade.

From onboard comforts to specialised services, knowing what’s available can help you plan a smoother, stress-free ferry experience, and avoid any surprise charges along the way.

Sailing Smart: The Joy of Saving on Your Irish Getaway

Picture this: It’s a crisp spring morning and you’re driving onto the ferry with your family, motorhome in tow, ready for a week of exploring Ireland’s breathtaking coastlines. You’ve got your snacks packed, the kids are excited, and you’ve just saved £60 on your booking by using one of our verified ferry voucher codes. That’s enough for a hearty pub lunch when you arrive, or a few rounds of Guinness in Galway.

Moments like these are exactly why we do what we do at My Favourite Voucher Codes. There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from outsmarting the usual travel expenses, not through cut corners, but through smart, informed choices. By booking midweek, comparing routes on Aferry, and applying a well-timed discount code, you’ve managed to make your trip smoother, cheaper, and all the more enjoyable.

And it’s not just about the pounds saved, it’s the confidence of knowing you’ve secured the best deal, without compromising on quality. Our expert team does the digging so you don’t have to, constantly checking and updating offers to make sure our codes are valid, working, and genuinely worth your time. With every successful checkout, you're not just getting a great deal, you’re also supporting UK charities with every penny we earn. That’s what we call a win-win.

Final Thoughts: Set Sail with Confidence and Smart Savings

Ferry travel between the UK and Ireland offers a winning combination of flexibility, comfort, and affordability, especially when planned with care. Whether you’re taking the car for a road trip, towing a caravan for a family holiday, or simply crossing on foot for a city break, ferries provide an enjoyable and stress-free way to reach your destination.

As we’ve explored, the smartest savings come from being strategic: booking early, travelling midweek, and staying flexible with your routes can lead to noticeable price reductions. But the real secret weapon in your travel toolkit is a reliable, working voucher code. With our expertly sourced ferry discounts for Irish Ferries, Stena Line, and Aferry, you can consistently secure better deals without compromising on quality or experience.

At My Favourite Voucher Codes, our mission goes beyond helping you save, we’re also committed to doing good. Every time you use our site to grab a deal, you're contributing to our monthly charity donations, making your savings even more meaningful.

So before you set off on your next adventure across the Irish Sea, make sure to bookmark our site. We’re here year-round with up-to-date ferry promo codes and fresh travel tips to keep your costs low and your experiences unforgettable.

by Julian House 5th June 2025