Rosslare ferries

When travelling by ferry to Rosslare, you can take advantage of the fixed discounts available to specific passenger categories. These discounts may differ from one company to another, but generally you can expect infants and toddlers up to 3 years old travel for free, while children under 16 are entitled to lower ferry ticket rates.

Ferries from Wales to Rosslare

The ferry routes from Wales to Rosslare are active all year round and operated by Irish Ferries and Stena Line with conventional cruise ferries.

Fishguard - Rosslare

The Fishguard - Rosslare ferry route is operated by Stena Line with 1-2 daily ferries, which take 3.5-4 hr. Ferry tickets cost from about € 28.48.

Pembroke - Rosslare

You can travel from Pembroke to Rosslare with 2 daily crossings by Irish Ferries. The ferry trip takes around 4 hr and ticket prices start at around € 43.49.

Ferries from France to Rosslare

Brittany Ferries serves the routes from France to Rosslare year-round with conventional cruise ferries.

Cherbourg - Rosslare

The Cherbourg - Rosslare ferry route is usually served 3-4 times a week, with the journey taking 16-19 hr and tickets priced from € 80.

Ferries from Spain to Rosslare

The Spain - Rosslare ferry routes are operated by Brittany Ferries with conventional cruise ferries.

Bilbao - Rosslare

You can travel on the Bilbao - Rosslare ferry all year round with 1-2 weekly crossings. The journey takes 27.5-31 hr and tickets cost from € 91.

Rosslare - Santander

There is also a ferry route from Rosslare to Santander, which operates seasonally, from November to March, with 1 weekly departure. The ferry trip takes 27.5-37 hr, while ticket prices start from around € 169.

There are 3 ferry companies serving the routes to and from Rosslare:

• Brittany Ferries serves the connections of Rosslare with Spain and France
• Irish Ferries operates the route between Rosslare and Pembroke
• Stena Line serves the ferry connection between Rosslare and Fishguard

How much luggage can you take on the Rosslare ferry?

Each ferry company has its own luggage policy:

• When travelling with Brittany Ferries, you can bring as many bags as you can carry on board by yourself, regardless of size or weight. You can store your luggage in the baggage room, which remains closed until 20-30 min before arrival.
• With Irish Ferries, you can bring as much luggage as you can carry on the ferry yourself. If you are travelling as a foot passenger, you can leave your baggage on the bus that transfers you to the ferry (it also travels on the ship) or you can take it with you.
• Stena Line allows you to bring as much luggage as you can carry on board yourself. Hand luggage must not exceed 60×50×40 cm, while larger bags should be checked in before boarding.

The duration of the ferry trip to Rosslare ranges from 3 hr 30 to 30+ hr, depending on the route, company and vessel. Here are indicative travel times for each route:

• Fishguard - Rosslare: from 3 hr 30 min to 4 hr
• Pembroke - Rosslare: around 4 hr
• Cherbourg - Rosslare: from 16 hr to 19 hr
• Bilbao - Rosslare: from 27 hr 30 min to 32 hr
• Rosslare - Santander: from 27 hr 30 min to 37 hr

Which is the fastest route to Rosslare?

The fastest ferry route is Fishguard - Rosslare, with the journey usually taking 3.5-4 hr.

What is the cheapest ferry route to Rosslare?

The cheapest route is usually Fishguard - Rosslare, with passenger tickets starting at around € 28.48 on Ferryhopper. Fares vary depending on the travel date, ticket type, vessel and whether you bring a vehicle, so booking early can help you secure a better price.

Which port of departure should I choose?

• Fishguard is generally the fastest and cheapest choice, with daily crossings making it ideal for travellers from South Wales and western England.
• Pembroke is another practical choice from South Wales, particularly if it is easier to reach by road. The crossing takes about 4 hr, with daily services all week.
• Cherbourg is ideal if you are travelling from northern France or elsewhere in continental Europe and want to avoid driving through Great Britain. Crossings take 16-19 hr and usually sail several times a week.
• Bilbao is convenient for travellers from northern Spain. The crossing takes around 27.5-32 hr and normally operates once or twice a week.

All these routes use conventional ferries with car decks. Your choice may therefore come down to driving distance, sailing frequency and departure time rather than vehicle availability.

What other factors should I consider?

• Seasonality: the main routes to Rosslare are generally available throughout the year, but sailing frequency and fares can change between peak and off-peak periods.
• Travel time and price: the crossings from Wales are considerably shorter and usually cheaper. Ferries from France and Spain take longer, but they can save you a lengthy drive and offer cabins for the overnight journey.
• Departure times: Fishguard and Pembroke usually have frequent sailings, while services from Bilbao and Cherbourg run only a few times a week. Check the timetable before arranging connecting travel.
• Vehicles: car-deck space can sell out during summer and around public holidays, so book early if you are travelling with a car, motorhome or caravan.
• Luggage and pets: allowances and pet facilities vary by operator and vessel. Check the relevant policy before booking, particularly if you need a kennel or pet-friendly cabin.

How much does it cost to bring my car to Rosslare?

The cost depends on the route, vehicle type and travel dates, with the cost usually starting at around €100 to €140 for a car, €25 to €45 for a motorbike and €140 to 225 for a caravan or motorhome.

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

Can I take my caravan on the ferry to Rosslare?

Yes, the conventional cruise ferries travelling to Rosslare have car decks that can accommodate larger vehicles, including caravans and motorhomes.

The Rosslare ferry routes are served by conventional cruise ferries designed for long-haul travel and feature a range of amenities and services. Amenities vary by operator and vessel, but generally you will find comfortable lounges, outdoor decks, cafés, shops and children’s play areas. On the overnight France and Spain crossings, you can expect a broader selection of cabins, restaurants and entertainment facilities.

Are there cabins on the ferries?

Yes, cabins for up to 4 passengers are available on both the shorter Irish Sea crossings and the longer continental Europe services. Depending on the ferry, you can usually choose from:

• Standard inside cabins
• Outside cabins with a sea view
• Adapted cabins for travellers with disabilities
• Pet-friendly cabins

On the longer France and Spain crossings, you can also book a deluxe cabin or suite with a double bed, additional amenities and a sea view.

Amenities differ from vessel to vessel, but the cabins generally feature air conditioning, bedding and en-suite bathroom.

Tip: we recommend booking your cabin early for summer sailings and other busy travel periods.

What type of seats can you book on Rosslare ferries?

Standard deck/lounge seating is available on all Rosslare ferries. You can also relax in cafés, lounges and other common areas, while outdoor seating is normally available when weather conditions allow.

For extra comfort, you can book premium seats on most ferries. These are numbered reclining seats with extra legroom and are in a quieter air-conditioned lounge.

Can I travel first class?

Yes, on the longer Rosslare ferry crossings, you can usually book a deluxe cabins or suites which often come with additional amenities and perks. This may include a TV, premium Wi-Fi access, tea- and coffee-making facilities, complimentary breakfast and access to an exclusive lounge.

Accessibility

The Rosslare ferries are generally equipped for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. You can expect lifts between the car and passenger decks, ramps and accessible boarding arrangements, wheelchair-accessible public areas and adapted en-suite cabins.

The ferry operators typically offer assistance during embarkation and disembarkation with prior notification. For further details on amenities and services, contact the ferry operator.

Can you take pets on the Rosslare ferry?

Yes, pets are welcome on the ferries to and from Rosslare, provided you include them in your booking. The ferries have designated walking areas, however, pets are not allowed in standard cabins, lounges or dining areas.

During the trip, smaller pets must be kept in a suitable carrier, while larger pets must be kept on a lead and wear a muzzle.

Where do pets stay on the ferry?

The pet accommodation options depend on the route, operator and vessel. When travelling with Brittany Ferries or Stena Line, your pet can either stay in a pet-friendly cabin, in the onboard kennels or in your vehicle.

On crossings with Irish Ferries, your pet can stay with you in the pet-friendly lounge or in your vehicle.

Important: if you decide to leave your pet in your vehicle, try to leave a window slightly open for ventilation.

What travel documents do I need for my pet?

On Rosslare ferry crossings, you will need to bring your pet’s Animal Health Certificate or EU Pet Passport, including microchip identification and a valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 21 days before your trip). Additionally, dogs will need tapeworm treatment administered by a vet 1-5 days before your arrival date.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available on many Rosslare ferries, although the service and charges vary by operator and vessel.

• Brittany Ferries and Irish Ferries offer a limited free session and a range of data bundles available.
• Stena Line offers a paid Wi-Fi service on its ferries.

Tip: internet connections at sea may be slower than those on land, so consider downloading films, podcasts or music before departure.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Yes, there is entertainment on Rosslare ferries, however the available options depend on the length of the crossing, operator and vessel. These may include outdoor decks where you can enjoy the sea view, wellness facilities for spa, massage and beauty treatments, duty-free shops, children’s play areas, TV or movie lounges, and seasonal live entertainment on selected longer crossings.

What documents do I need?

All ferry crossings to Rosslare are international, and the required travel documents depend on your nationality and from which port you are travelling:

• For crossings from Fishguard or Pembroke: British and Irish citizens can travel under the Common Travel Area and do not need a passport, but must carry a valid form of photographic identification. Other passengers will need to present a valid passport, and depending on their nationality, they may also need an Irish visa.
• For crossings from France or Spain: EU citizens can normally travel with a valid passport or national ID card. Non-EU citizens need a valid passport and, depending on their nationality, may also need a visa. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so travel documents are checked at the border.

How to book ferry tickets

You can easily book ferry tickets to Rosslare on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks:

1. Select Rosslare as your destination, along with your port of departure and travel dates
2. Add passengers, pets and vehicles
3. Compare ferry operators, travel times, and ticket prices
4. Complete your booking securely online

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive your ferry tickets by email. Ferryhopper allows you to manage your booking, check updates, and access customer support all in one place.

Check-in and boarding procedures

At the port, follow the signs for your operator and have your booking reference, identification and vehicle or pet documents ready. Check-in and arrival times depend on your route and ferry company:

• Stena Line: check-in for the Fishguard - Rosslare route closes 30 min before departure for both foot passengers and vehicles. Vehicle check-in opens 3 hr before sailing, while foot passenger check-in opens 1.5 hr beforehand.
• Irish Ferries: check-in for the Pembroke - Rosslare route closes 30 min before departure. Arriving around 1 hr early is advisable when travelling with a vehicle.
• Brittany Ferries: passengers travelling with pets or requiring mobility assistance should check in at least 1.5 hr before departure, while passengers with vehicles should arrive at least 2 hr in advance.

Foot passengers normally check in at the passenger terminal before taking a shuttle or following staff directions to the ship. Motorists check in at the vehicle booths and then wait in the assigned lane until boarding begins.

Can I board with an electronic ticket?

With Brittany Ferries, Irish Ferries and Stena Line, you can book your Rosslare ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper and pick them up in paper form from the company’s collection points at the port before the trip.

Rosslare is a coastal village in County Wexford, known for its long sandy beach and relaxed seaside atmosphere. The area offers swimming, walking and golf, as well as cafés, pubs and accommodation near the shore. It is also a convenient base for visiting Wexford town, the Hook Peninsula and the beaches of Ireland’s south-east coast.

You can find more ideas on things to see and do in our Rosslare travel guide.

Best time to book

For travel in July and August, around Christmas or over a bank-holiday weekend, it is best to book 2-3 months in advance. Vehicle spaces, accessible cabins and pet accommodation are limited and may sell out before standard passenger tickets.

During spring and autumn, booking a few weeks ahead is usually sufficient. For trips during winter and the low season, you can usually afford to book even closer to your travel dates, but keep in mind that crossings may be reduced.

Arrival

The Rosslare routes are international crossings, so it is important to arrive early enough to clear the check-in and passport controls. We recommend arriving:

• at least 1 hr before departure as a foot passenger
• up to 2 hr before departure with a vehicle, pet or if you require assistance

Stena Line and Irish Ferries normally close check-in 30 min before departure on their Irish Sea routes. Brittany Ferries’ check-in times vary, but passengers travelling with pets or requiring assistance should arrive at least 1.5 hr before sailing.

Ferry travel tips

• Check your documents: all Rosslare crossings are international, so bring the correct travel documents and check whether you need a visa.
• Prepare for sea conditions: the Irish Sea and the routes across the Bay of Biscay can occasionally be choppy. If you are prone to seasickness, consider suitable medication and choose a seat or cabin near the centre of the ferry.
• Book a cabin: a private cabin is recommended for the longer overnight crossings from France and Spain. Cabins are also available on some shorter services if you would like extra privacy.
• Prepare for the car deck: take any medicines, travel documents, chargers and other essentials with you, as access to vehicles is normally restricted during the crossing.
• Download entertainment: onboard Wi-Fi relies on a maritime connection and may be slower than internet access on land. Download films, music or reading material before departure.

Where is Rosslare's port?

Rosslare Europort, the main ferry terminal in Rosslare Harbour, is about 8 km from the village of Rosslare. The port is in County Wexford, on the southeastern coast of Ireland, roughly 20 km from Wexford, 75 km from Waterford, and 170 km from Dublin.

What facilities are available at the port?

At the port, you will find useful traveller amenities, including ticket offices, a passenger lounge, a coffee shop, toilets, baby-changing facilities, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a drop-off area. In the village of Rosslare, you will also find pubs and restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, as well as a supermarket, bank, and a few shops.

How to get to Rosslare port

• By car: Rosslare Europort is at the end of the N25, with the drive taking about 20 min from Wexford Town, about 1 hr 20 min from Waterford and 2 hr 15 min from Dublin.
• By train: the Rosslare Europort railway station is about a 10-min walk from the ferry terminal.
• By bus: the bus terminal is just outside the port, with the TFI Local Link route 387 connecting Rosslare Europort with Wexford several times a day.
• By taxi: taxis are available to and from the port, usually outside the terminal building.
• From the airport: Dublin Airport is roughly 180 km away, with the drive taking around 2 hr. Public transport options normally involve a bus or rail connection via Wexford.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Rosslare, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.