So You Want to Take a Ferry to London from Dublin, Eh?
Let's face it, airplanes are a bit...well, plane. Don't get me wrong, they're whizzy and fast, but where's the adventure in hurtling through the sky like a sardine in a can? The answer, my friend, is the majestic ferry!
Ferrying Your Way to Fun
Taking a ferry from Dublin to London is like taking a mini-cruise, but without the questionable buffets and questionable dance routines (although, who am I to judge your jigging fancy?). You get stunning sea views, salty breezes (perfect for that windswept hair look), and plenty of time to relax, recharge, and maybe even practice your best sea shanty.
Setting Sail: The Two Ferry Titans
Here's the thing, there are two main ferry operators on this route: Stena Line and Irish Ferries. Think of them as the Arks of the Irish Sea, battling it out for ferry supremacy (dramatic, I know). Both offer a similar journey time of around 3-ish hours, so the choice really comes down to vibes.
- Stena Line: These guys are known for their modern ferries, packed with restaurants, bars, and even a cinema! Think "floating entertainment complex." Perfect if you have a restless crew in tow (or just an insatiable sweet tooth for the on-board candy store).
- Irish Ferries: These ferries have a more classic feel, with spacious lounges and plenty of deck space for soaking up the sea air. They also offer a dedicated "Sail and Rail" package that combines your ferry ticket with a train ticket to London, making onward travel a breeze.
What to Pack for Your Ferry Escapade
- Seasickness meds (just in case): The Irish Sea can be a bit choppy, so if you're prone to feeling a touch green around the gills, pack some preventative measures.
- A good book (or five): There's only so much ocean you can stare at before needing a mental escape.
- A camera: Capture those epic sea vistas and selfies with dramatic windblown hair (see above).
- Snacks: Ferry food can be a bit pricey, so pack some nibbles to keep your energy levels up.
- A sense of adventure: This is all about the journey, not just the destination!
How to Avoid Looking Like a Lost Landlubber
- Book in advance: Especially during peak season, ferries can fill up fast.
- Arrive early: Check-in procedures can take a while, so factor in some extra buffer time.
- Follow the signs: Ferry terminals can be a bit of a maze, so keep your eyes peeled for signage.
- Relax and enjoy the ride! This is your time to unwind and embrace the ferry life.
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling fancy, some ferries offer upgrade options for access to swanky lounges and priority boarding. Treat yo' self!
Frequently Asked Ferry Fancies
How to book a ferry ticket?
You can book directly through the Stena Line or Irish Ferries websites.
How long does the ferry journey take?
The ferry journey typically takes around 3 hours.
Can I take my car on the ferry?
Yes, both Stena Line and Irish Ferries offer car ferry options.
Is there food and drink available on board?
Absolutely! Both ferries have a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes.
What happens if I get seasick?
There are pharmacies located in the ferry terminals where you can purchase seasickness medication.
So there you have it! Your guide to conquering the Irish Sea by glorious ferry. Now set sail, and don't forget to pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some Dramamine, just in case).
