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Ferry to Dublin

We are staying in London for a week before heading to Dublin. Trying to decide if we should fly or take the ferry.

We are traveling at the end of August and wondering if it’s worth the experience or save the time and fly.

Thanks

Posted by
477 posts

As a child, I spent summer vacations in Ireland, visiting the relatives.

We always went by ferry, from Holyhead to Dublin (and back). It is, without doubt, an experience I never wish to repeat. Ferries may have improved since then - it was a long time ago.

Posted by
2267 posts

I’d say that if you have the curiosity, you should satisfy it while you have the opportunity. Future trips may not offer the routing or flexibility of schedule.

Posted by
429 posts

Well if you are taking the ferry from Holyhead take the chance to visit spectacular South Stack. Often overlooked by the tourist hordes in a hurry to move on.

Posted by
6713 posts

The ferry itself might not be worth the experience but the trip to north Wales would be a great experience if you have time for it. Don't just race to Holyhead to catch a boat, spend some time along the way if you have it. Otherwise fly.

Posted by
6113 posts

It’s a no brainer - fly. Travelling by ferry is tedious, as is getting to Holyhead from London.

Posted by
2267 posts

Jennifer - I don't find ferries tedious at all! I understand you might, but these perspectives can be largely subjective.

Posted by
429 posts

We drove back to London from Holyhead over a week and I thought it was brilliant.
Actually I would find spending a week in London very frustrating knowing what I am missing by not being in the British countryside.
I am guessing the OP is thinking of doing it in much less than a week though. If you were planning on doing it in a day then probably best to head off very early to beat the traffic.

Posted by
2066 posts

The train fare for the five-hour journey to Holyhead is going to be pricey. Of course a bus is an alternative if you don’t mind 8-hour bus rides. To save time and money, flying is your best bet. There are flights taking 80 minutes leaving from convenient London City Airport ( LCY) for less than $100.

Posted by
470 posts

There are through rail and ferry tickets available from London to Dublin called RailSail
If you book in Advance they cost £46.10
Not what i call pricey
Suggest you consult www.seat61.com for full details

Posted by
9265 posts

Fly.

Many non stop flights to choose from.

Get a window seat.

Enjoy seeing why Ireland is called the Emerald Isle.

Posted by
119 posts

I say fly as well, you land in the place you want to be you don't lose a day on the road or bouncing on a ferry, also the crossing can be choppy, if your susceptible to any motion sickness the Irish Sea is not a good idea.