Traveling from the UK to Ireland has never been easier or more affordable thanks to Irish Ferries, one of the most popular ferry operators on the Irish Sea. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a family holiday, or a short getaway, Irish Ferries offers great deals on ferry crossings between the UK and Ireland.
In this 2026 travel guide, we’ll explore the best Irish Ferries deals, routes, pricing tips, and money-saving strategies to help you book your journey at the lowest price.
Why Choose Irish Ferries for UK to Ireland Travel?
Irish Ferries is well known for providing comfortable, fast, and reliable ferry services between Britain and Ireland. The company operates major routes including:
- Holyhead (Wales) → Dublin
- Pembroke (Wales) → Rosslare
- Dublin → Cherbourg (France)
Passengers can bring cars, pets, bikes, and large luggage, making ferry travel a convenient alternative to flying. Onboard amenities often include restaurants, lounges, duty-free shopping, cinemas, and children’s play areas for a comfortable journey.
Top Irish Ferries Deals in 2026
Here are some of the most popular ferry deals available for travel between the UK and Ireland.
1. Short Break Deals from £228
One of the best offers for 2026 is a short break ferry package starting from around £228 for a car and one passenger when traveling during off-peak periods.
This deal is perfect for:
- Weekend trips
- 3–5 day holidays
- Quick road trips in Ireland
These fares usually apply to night sailings from Monday to Wednesday, helping travelers save significantly compared to peak travel days.
2. Early Booking Discounts
Booking early is one of the best ways to secure cheap ferry tickets.
Irish Ferries occasionally offers flexible fare upgrades and discounts on early bookings, allowing travelers to modify or cancel their trips without additional fees.
Benefits include:
- Lower fares
- Free amendments
- Priority availability during peak seasons
3. Off-Peak Travel Deals
If you can travel outside busy periods, you can save even more.
Typical prices include:
- Foot passenger tickets from about £38–£60 one way
- Car fares starting around £119 off-peak
Prices usually increase during:
- Summer holidays
- School breaks
- Christmas season
Popular UK to Ireland Ferry Routes
Holyhead → Dublin (Most Popular Route)
This is the busiest ferry route between the UK and Ireland.
Key details:
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes
- Multiple daily sailings
- Fast ferry and cruise ferry options
Average prices vary depending on season and vehicle type:
- From about £81 for foot passengers
- Up to £532 for car travelers during peak periods
Pembroke → Rosslare
This route connects South Wales with Ireland’s southeast coast.
Why travelers love it:
- Less crowded
- Ideal for road trips across Ireland
- Direct access to Ireland’s scenic countryside
What’s Onboard Irish Ferries?
Traveling by ferry is not just transportation—it’s part of the experience.
Typical onboard facilities include:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Cinema screens
- Duty-free shopping
- Outdoor decks
- Kids’ play areas
- Pet travel areas
Passengers can relax and enjoy sea views while traveling across the Irish Sea.
How to Find the Cheapest Irish Ferries Tickets
1. Book Early
Ticket prices increase as sailings fill up, so booking early can save you a lot of money.
2. Travel Mid-Week
Tuesday and Wednesday sailings usually offer the lowest fares.
3. Use Short Break Packages
Special deals like 5-day return trips can be cheaper than one-way bookings.
4. Travel Off-Season
The best prices are often found between:
- January
- February
- November
Ferry vs Flight: Which Is Better?
Many travelers choose ferries instead of flights for several reasons:
| Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|
| Bring your car | No vehicle |
| More luggage | Limited baggage |
| Pet-friendly | Limited pet travel |
| Relaxing journey | Faster but stressful |
For road trips in Ireland, ferries are usually the better option.
Best Time to Book Irish Ferries Deals
To get the best prices, consider booking during:
- Black Friday travel sales
- Early booking promotions
- Spring and autumn travel seasons
Prices tend to be highest during:
- Summer holidays
- School breaks
Travel Tips for UK to Ireland Ferry Trips
Here are some helpful tips before you travel:
- Arrive at the port at least 45 minutes before departure
- Book cabins for overnight sailings
- Pack essentials for the journey
- Bring entertainment for kids
Final Thoughts
Irish Ferries offers some of the best travel deals between the UK and Ireland, making ferry travel an affordable and enjoyable option.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, family vacation, or scenic road trip, booking the right ferry deal can save you hundreds of pounds.
Quick Recap
Best ways to save on Irish Ferries in 2026:
- Book early
- Travel mid-week
- Use short-break packages
- Avoid peak travel seasons
With the right strategy, you can enjoy a comfortable and budget-friendly journey across the Irish Sea.