Ferry from France to Ireland: your guide for 2026

Travel to the Emerald Isle by ferry!
Mon, 3 August 2026 The Ferryhopper Team

You can travel from France to Ireland by ferry with year-round direct crossings from the French ports of Cherbourg and Roscoff to Dublin, Rosslare and Cork. Whether you're planning a road trip around Ireland or simply looking for a comfortable alternative to flying, ferries from France to Ireland offer a convenient way to reach the Emerald Isle.

On Ferryhopper, you can compare all ferry routes from France to Ireland, check real-time schedules and ticket prices, discover the latest offers, and book your ferry tickets online with no hidden fees.

Here's everything you need to know about planning your ferry trip from France to Ireland in 2026.

Small boats and yatchs anchored in the marina of Cherbourg, in France

Yachts stationed in the marina of Cherbourg

Ferry routes from France to Ireland

There are 3 ferry routes connecting France with Ireland, with departures from Cherbourg and Roscoff. Ferries arrive at the Irish ports of Cork, Dublin and Rosslare, providing convenient access to the island's cities and scenic coastal towns.

Ferries from Roscoff to Cork

The Roscoff - Cork ferry route is operated by Brittany Ferries, with 1-2 weekly crossings. The journey takes around 14 to 15 hours, while ferry tickets start at around €55.

This route is a popular choice for travelers heading to southern Ireland. From Cork, you can reach the Wild Atlantic Way, visit charming towns such as Kinsale and Clonakilty, or continue towards Killarney and the spectacular scenery of County Kerry.

Ferries from Cherbourg to Dublin

The Cherbourg - Dublin ferry route is operated by Irish Ferries, with daily departures throughout the year. The crossing usually takes 19 to 20 hours, and ferry tickets start at around €103 for a standard ticket.

Arriving in Dublin puts you within easy reach of Ireland's vibrant capital, famous for its historic landmarks, lively pubs and cultural attractions. It's also a convenient gateway for exploring the east coast of the island.

Ferries from Cherbourg to Rosslare

The Cherbourg - Rosslare ferry route is operated by Brittany Ferries, with up to 3 weekly crossings throughout the year. The journey takes approximately 15.5 to 18 hours, while ferry tickets start at around €70.

Rosslare is one of Ireland's main ferry ports and a great starting point for discovering the country's sunny southeast. From here, you can easily reach County Wexford, Waterford and the scenic coastline of Ireland's south.

Cityscape of Dublin with the Shandon Tower emerging from other buildings

Shandon Tower, one of Dublin's most famous landmarks

Tickets, offers & discounts for France - Ireland ferries 2026

France  - Ireland ferry ticket prices

Ferry ticket prices from France to Ireland usually start at around €55, but can reach €107, depending on the route and whether you're travelling with a vehicle. Here are some indicative starting prices:

  • Roscoff - Cork: from €55 (Brittany Ferries, direct)
  • Cherbourg - Rosslare: from €70 (Brittany Ferries, direct)
  • Cherbourg - Dublin: from €107 (Irish Ferries, direct)

All 3 routes are a convenient option if you're travelling with your own vehicle, allowing you to start exploring Ireland as soon as you arrive. Whether you're planning a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, a city break in Dublin or a road trip around the island, travelling by ferry gives you the freedom to continue your journey at your own pace.

Keep in mind that these prices are indicative for standard bookings. If you're travelling as a family or group and sharing a vehicle or cabin, the overall cost per person can be lower, as the vehicle and accommodation costs are split between passengers.

Your final ferry ticket price will depend on the selected route, ferry company, travel dates, accommodation type, and whether you're travelling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle.

Useful info: for your return trip, don't forget to take a look at our dedicated guide on ferries from Ireland to France!

Offers and discounts

When travelling by ferry from France to Ireland, you can take advantage of discounts offered by ferry companies throughout the year. Any available offers are automatically applied when booking on Ferryhopper, so you'll always see the best available price.

Discount policies vary depending on the ferry operator, but children often benefit from reduced fares, while infants and toddlers usually travel free of charge. Additional discounts may also be available for selected passenger categories or during promotional periods.

If you're planning your trip well in advance, it's worth keeping an eye out for seasonal promotions and early-booking offers. Ferry companies occasionally release limited-time deals, especially for spring and summer crossing, helping you secure lower fares for your France - Ireland ferry trip.

You can find all the latest offers and compare available tickets prices on Ferryhopper before booking.

On-board services & amenities

Brittany Ferries and Irish Ferries offer a wide range of services on their conventional ferries from France to Ireland. Depending on your route and ferry operator, you can usually find:

  • Restaurants and cafés
  • Lounges with comfy seating
  • Shops for last-minute purchases
  • Children's play areas and entertainment
  • Private cabins for overnight trips
  • Wi-Fi to stay connected during the journey

Accessibility

Both Brittany Ferries and Irish Ferries offer services and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including accessible cabins, lifts and assistance during boarding and disembarkation.

If you require assistance, it's recommended to inform the ferry company when booking your tickets so that the appropriate arrangements can be made.

Cabins & accommodation

As all ferry routes from France to Ireland are overnight or long-distance crossings, booking a cabin is highly recommended for a more comfortable journey. Depending on the ferry company and vessel, you can choose from a range of cabin types, including:

  • Standard interior cabins
  • Exterior cabins with a sea view
  • Deluxe cabins and family suites with extra amenities
  • Adapted cabins for travelers with disabilities
  • Pet-friendly cabins

All cabins have air conditioning, a wardrobe and an ensuite bathroom, with prices typically starting at around €180.

Alternatively, a standard seat is included in your ticket. 

Luggage

When travelling with Brittany Ferries and Irish Ferries, you may bring as many pieces of luggage as you can fit into your vehicle.

Both Brittany Ferries and Irish Ferries allow passengers to bring as much luggage as they can comfortably carry on board, without the strict baggage restrictions typically associated with air travel.

If you're travelling with a vehicle, you can also pack everything you need for your trip directly in your car.

Keep in mind that access to the vehicle deck is not permitted during the crossing, so it's a good idea to pack a small overnight bag with your essential belongings before boarding.

Traveling with you pet

Pets are welcome on all ferry routes from France to Ireland, although the available facilities depend on the operator and vessel.

On the Roscoff - Cork and Cherbourg - Rosslare routes with Brittany Ferries, pets can travel in on-board kennels or pet-friendly cabins on selected ships. Dedicated outdoor areas are also available on many vessels.

On the Cherbourg - Dublin route with Irish Ferries, pet facilities vary by ship. On W.B. Yeats, pets stay in pre-booked kennels that owners can visit at designated times during the crossing. On Isle of Inisheer, pets can stay with their owners in designated pet-friendly cabins, subject to availability.

Remember that all pets travelling between France and Ireland must meet the relevant entry requirements, including microchipping, valid travel documentation and rabies vaccination. Dogs returning to Ireland must also receive tapeworm treatment within the required timeframe before arrival.

View of ferry from beach on the coast in northern France

A ferry near the sandy coastline of northern France

FAQs about France to Ireland ferries

Can you get a ferry from France to Ireland?

Yes, you can travel directly from France to Ireland by ferry all year round. There are 3 ferry routes operated by Brittany Ferries and Irish Ferries connecting Cherbourg and Roscoff with Cork and Rosslare.

What documents do I need to travel from France to Ireland?

Irish and other EU citizens travelling from France to Ireland need a valid passport or national identity card, depending on their nationality and the ferry operator's requirements. It's always a good idea to check which travel documents are accepted before departure.

British citizens must travel with a valid passport. Although Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, UK nationals can travel to Ireland without a visa under the Common Travel Area (CTA) arrangements, provided they meet the relevant entry requirements.

Travelers from countries outside the EU should check the latest passport and visa requirements before travelling. If you're travelling with a pet, you'll also need to ensure it complies with Ireland's pet travel requirements.

How much is the cheapest ferry from France to Ireland?

The cheapest ferry from France to Ireland is usually from Roscoff to Cork, with tickets starting at around €55 for a foot passenger.

Ticket prices vary depending on the route, ferry company, travel dates, accommodation type and whether you're travelling with a vehicle.

You can find the lowest available fares and compare all France to Ireland ferry routes on Ferryhopper.

How long is the ferry from France to Ireland?

The ferry journey from France to Ireland takes between 14 and 20 hours, depending on the route and ferry company:

  • Roscoff - Cork: around 14-15 hours
  • Cherbourg - Rosslare: around 15.5-18 hours
  • Cherbourg - Dublin: around 19-20 hours

What is the fastest ferry from France to Ireland?

The Roscoff - Cork ferry provides the fastest crossing from France to Ireland, with a crossing time of around 14-15 hours.

Can I travel on the ferry from France to Ireland with a car?

Yes, all ferry routes from France to Ireland allow passengers to travel with a car, motorcycle, camper van, or bicycle. Traveling with your own vehicle is one of the most convenient ways to explore Ireland and continue your journey along its coastal roads and picturesque towns.

Make sure to bring along your driving licence, as well as vehicle registration and insurance documents.

Which ferry companies operate from France to Ireland?

There are 2 ferry companies operating direct ferry routes from France to Ireland: 

  • Brittany Ferries, operating the Roscoff - Cork and Cherbourg - Rosslare routes
  • Irish Ferries, which services the Cherbourg - Dublin  route

When is the best time to book France - Ireland ferry tickets?

For the best choice of departure times and fares, it’s generally recommended to book your France - Ireland ferry tickets on Ferryhopper well in advance. This way, you can compare routes and operators, find the best prices, and secure your spot before arriving at the port.

Orange skies as the sun sets over the city of Dublin and the River Liffey

Sunset over the city of Dublin and the River Liffey

Book your France - Ireland ferry tickets for 2026

Ready to discover Ireland? Whether you're planning to explore the vibrant streets of Dublin, the colourful city of Cork or the stunning scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way, ferries from France to Ireland offer a comfortable and convenient way to reach the Emerald Isle.

On Ferryhopper, you can compare ferry companies, check timetables and ticket prices, and book your France - Ireland ferry tickets quickly and securely. Use our Map of ferriesto plan your 2026 trip and discover the best ferry connections to Ireland with no hidden fees.