Some holidays start when you land. Others begin the moment you step aboard. Crossing the Channel with Irish Ferries belongs firmly in the second camp. Forget the stress of airports and cramped seats here, the journey itself feels like part of the adventure. Whether you’re road-tripping through Normandy, wine-tasting in Bordeaux, or heading for a family camping escape, taking the ferry is a relaxed, flexible, and surprisingly affordable way to get there.
Ferry Travel to France in a Nutshell
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Routes: Direct sailings from Dublin and Rosslare to Cherbourg and Roscoff.
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Flexibility: Bring your car, caravan, bikes, and even the family dog.
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Comfort: Spacious cabins, lounges, restaurants, and free roaming on deck.
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Value: No baggage limits, and the cost often undercuts flying once extras are added.
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Experience: Arrive rested, with your own wheels and no jetlag.
Irish Ferries to France are not just transport, they’re a calmer, more civilised start to any French escape.
Design & Style: Ships Made for Travellers
Irish Ferries’ fleet includes modern ships like the W.B. Yeats — a sleek vessel with contemporary cabins, airy lounges, and dining options that would put some airports to shame. The design feels more like a boutique hotel than a ferry, with wide windows for sea views and calm interiors that make long sailings genuinely pleasant.
Experience Onboard
This is where Irish Ferries shines. Think beyond the basics:
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Cabins: From cosy inside rooms to spacious suites, all with private showers.
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Dining: Casual cafés, self-service restaurants, and fine dining for a treat.
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Entertainment: Kids’ play zones, cinemas, and free Wi-Fi in lounges.
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Fresh Air: Deck space for morning coffee with sea views, or evening stargazing.
For families, it’s a godsend children can wander, play, and nap, while adults actually relax. Travelling with pets? Irish Ferries offers onboard kennels and even pet-friendly cabins.
The Story You’ll Tell Later
instead of standing in an airport security line at dawn, you’re already sipping coffee as the ship glides out of Dublin Bay. The kids are pointing out lighthouses, the car is safely packed below deck with all your holiday gear, and there’s no panic about weight limits or duty-free allowances. By the time you roll off at Cherbourg, you’re rested, fed, and ready to hit the road. That’s the Irish Ferries difference, it turns travel from a hassle into part of the holiday memory.
Instagrammable Moments & Versatility
French getaways deserve a stylish start, and there’s something undeniably photogenic about sea travel. Think golden sunsets across the Channel, children leaning on the railing with wind in their hair, or simply the shot of your car driving onto the ship holiday mode officially engaged. Whether you’re a couple chasing vineyards, a family bound for Eurocamp, or friends heading to a music festival, the ferry flexes to suit every kind of trip.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No luggage restrictions | Crossing takes longer than flying |
| Take your own car, caravan, or bikes | Weather can affect sailings |
| Comfortable cabins and lounges | Cabins add to cost |
| Pet-friendly options | Book early in peak season for best fares |
| Arrive refreshed and ready to drive | Driving in France may not suit everyone |
The beauty of travelling with Irish Ferries to France lies in its balance: freedom without fuss, comfort without excess, and value without compromise. For families, it’s less “Are we there yet?” and more “We’re already on holiday.” For couples, it’s an indulgent way to stretch out the trip, turning travel into part of the experience.
And there’s the practical side too, no frantic airport queues, no baggage rules, no overpriced car hire at the other end. Instead, you drive straight from the ferry into France, with your own space and your own pace.
Irish Ferries proves that sometimes the old-fashioned way of travelling by sea is still the smartest. If your next French adventure deserves a smoother start, this is the crossing to book.
FAQs
How long is the crossing to France?
Dublin to Cherbourg is around 18 hours, while Rosslare to Roscoff is closer to 15. Overnight sailings make the time fly by.
Can I bring my car and caravan?
Yes, that’s the point, Irish Ferries is ideal for self-drive holidays.
What about pets?
There are kennels and pet-friendly cabins available. Check ahead to reserve as these sell out quickly.
Is it more expensive than flying?
Often not. By the time you add luggage fees, car hire, and airport transfers, ferries can work out cheaper, especially for families.