So you want to ditch the land and become a temporary pirate? Ferries to Ireland await!
Forget the pigeons and questionable airplane food, a ferry to Ireland is the way to travel in style (or at least avoid the indignity of trying to explain to Ryanair why your inflatable flamingo pool toy is essential carry-on). The open seas, the salty breeze, and the chance to drunkenly yodel sea shanties with fellow travelers (please don't do this) - what's not to love?
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| How To Get From England To Ireland By Ferry |
Choosing your vessel: Steel Stallion or Speedy Sea Cheetah?
There are two main types of ferries plying the England-Ireland route: the classic, big ferries and the sleek, high-speed ones.
The Big Ferries: These behemoths take a little longer but offer a more, ahem, leisurely experience. Think onboard cinemas, restaurants with enough buffets to feed a small village, and enough duty-free shops to fill your bathtub with miniature bottles of Baileys. Perfect if you need to stock up on Christmas presents for the whole family (or haven't finished that Stephen King novel you started 3 years ago).
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
The Speedy Sea Cheetahs: Need to get to Ireland faster than a leprechaun on a sugar rush? These zippy ferries will get you there in a flash. The downside? Less legroom than a clown car and all the amenities of a particularly posh bathtub (bring your own entertainment!).
Pro tip: Seasickness sufferers, bigger ferries tend to be smoother sailing.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
Picking your Port: A Geographical Gamble
The next question is: where are you setting sail from, matey? There are several ports in England that offer ferries to Ireland, with some routes being faster or cheaper than others. Here's a quick rundown of the most popular routes:
- Liverpool to Dublin: This is a classic route, with a good mix of big ferries and speedy ones.
- Holyhead to Dublin: Another popular choice, with stunning views of Snowdonia National Park to boot.
- Fishguard to Rosslare: A scenic route perfect for those who fancy a glimpse of some Welsh countryside.
_Remember: Do your research! Crossing times, prices, and onboard facilities can vary depending on the route and ferry company.
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
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How to be a Ferry Pro: Essential Tips for the High Seas
- Book in advance, especially during peak season! Nobody wants to be that guy explaining to his family why they're spending the night sleeping on a park bench in Holyhead.
- Pack for all weathers. The Irish Sea can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sunshine, wind, or a good old-fashioned sea shanty-worthy downpour.
- Bring seasickness medication if you're prone to a dodgy stomach. Nobody enjoys a green-tinged adventure (unless it's the colour of your passport, of course).
- Stock up on snacks! Ferry food can be pricey, so pack some sarnies and a packet of crisps to keep those hunger pangs at bay.
- Embrace the journey! Relax, enjoy the sea air, and maybe strike up a conversation with your fellow travelers. You never know, you might just meet your new best friend (or worst nightmare, but that's another story).
Ferry FAQs: Become a Master of the Irish Sea!
How to book a ferry? Easy! There are lots of websites where you can compare prices and book ferries online.
How long does the ferry take? Crossing times vary depending on the route and type of ferry. Big ferries can take up to 8 hours, while speedy ones can get you there in under 4 hours.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Can I take my car on the ferry? Absolutely! Most ferries offer space for cars, motorbikes, and even bicycles (although how you plan to cycle across the Irish Sea is beyond us).
What are the luggage restrictions? This depends on the ferry company, so check their website before you pack your entire wardrobe.
Is there duty-free shopping on board? On most big ferries, there sure is! Stock up on booze, cigarettes, and questionable perfumes to your heart's content (but please drink responsibly).
So there you have it! With a little planning and this handy guide, you'll be setting sail for Ireland in no time. Now batten down the hatches, grab your inner pirate (or at least your seasickness meds), and get ready for an adventure!
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