Liverpool Birkenhead – Belfast

Ferry to Northern Ireland

Liverpool Birkenhead – Belfast

Ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast are operated by 1 ferry company; Stena Line. The journey usually takes around 8 hours. There are currently 13 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Prices start from as little as £85. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Belfast today.

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Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast Ferry

How do I get from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?

You can get a ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast. Ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast are available all year round. This ferry route is operated by 1 ferry company; Stena Line. With around 2 daily and 13 weekly sailings, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Belfast today.

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast Ferry Timetable

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast first ferry: departs Liverpool Birkenhead at 10:30.  
Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast last ferry: departs Liverpool Birkenhead at around 22:30.  

Bear in mind that Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry times can vary by season. We recommend checking the latest Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry timetable before you book. 

How long is the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?

The duration of the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry depends whether you’re travelling on a Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast fast ferry or conventional ferry. The Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry duration is usually around 8 hours on average.  
  
Average Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry time: 8 hours   
Fastest ferry: 8 hours    
Longest ferry: 9 hours

Is there a fast ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?

The fastest ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast take 8 hours.

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast Ferry Schedule

Ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast are provided by 1 ferry company; Stena Line with 2 daily and 13 weekly sailings. Bear in mind, the Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry timetable can change throughout the seasons, with more options available in the summer months. 

Ferry frequency: the Liverpool Birkenhead ferry to Belfast runs all year round   

Stena Line: 2 daily sailings and 13 weekly sailings 

Can I do a Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast day trip?

With an average duration of 8 hours, it's not possible to do a day trip from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast.

How much does a ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast cost?

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry prices can vary depending on the ferry company you're travelling with and the season you're travelling in. The price of the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast varies between £84.53 to £489.00.

Average Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry cost: £363.00  
Cheapest Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry: £84.53

How far is Liverpool Birkenhead from Belfast?

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast distance: approximately 216.5 miles (348.4km) or 188 nautical miles.

Can you take your car on the ferry to Belfast from Liverpool Birkenhead?

Yes, you can get the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast with a car.

Car operators: Stena Line  
Average car price: £383.00  

Can I travel as a foot passenger to Belfast from Liverpool Birkenhead?

Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry.

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast foot passenger ferries: Stena Line  
Average foot passenger price: £114.00  

Can I take my camper on the Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry?

Yes, you can take your camper on the ferry to Belfast from Liverpool Birkenhead.  

Average camper price: £387.30

Are cabins available on the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry?

Yes, cabins are available on the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast.

Cabin operators: Stena Line

Here's everything you need to know about taking your pet on the boat to Belfast from Liverpool Birkenhead

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?

Pets are allowed on Liverpool Birkenhead ferries to Belfast. However, you must let the ferry company know you are travelling with a pet at the time of your booking.

Pet-friendly operators:   
Stena Line  

What will I need when travelling with my pet?

You will need the following things with you when travelling with your pet on a ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast.

  • Health documents showing your pet’s vaccinations
  • Everything your pet needs for a safe and comfortable journey such as water, food and a lead

Where will my pet stay during the Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry crossing?

Stena Line:

  • Pets can remain in your vehicle on all routes
  • Onboard kennels can be pre-booked for dogs and are free of charge
  • Pet-friendly cabins are also available

Travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs

You can travel with guide dogs and assistance dogs on the boat from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast. However, you must let the ferry company know at the time of booking. You may also have to present any necessary certificates if asked to do so on board.

Everything you need to know about Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry tickets

When is the best time to book ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?  

We recommend booking in advance to find the cheapest ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast. Belfast to Belfast ferry prices vary depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Belfast to Liverpool Birkenhead ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re travelling from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast by boat in summer it’s always best to make your Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry booking in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the cheapest ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast.

Do you offer student discount on Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry tickets?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry booking.

Onboard the Liverpool Birkenhead Belfast ferry   

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry with luggage

If you're getting the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

  • Stena Line: there is no limit however hand luggage must be no larger than 60cm x 50cm x 40cm   

What facilities are available on board ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the ferry between Liverpool Birkenhead and Belfast. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast boat differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin.

  • Stena Line: Standard, deluxe and superior cabins are available on board as well as a number of lounges.

Is there reduced mobility access on the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

  • Stena Line: Wheelchair-accessible cabins, disabled parking and assistance are available on board 

Taking the ferry from Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast   

How early do I need to arrive at Liverpool Birkenhead port?  

It all depends on the ferry company you are travelling with. In general, we recommend arriving at Liverpool Birkenhead port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry tickets?

Your Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?  

The latest check-in time for your Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast ferry booking should be in your confirmation email.

  • Stena Line: 2 hours – 45 minutes before departure for cars. 1 hour 45 minutes – 30 minutes before departure for foot passengers.

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Liverpool Birkenhead - Belfast Ferry Route summary
OriginEngland
DestinationNorthern Ireland
No. of Operators1
OperatorsStena Line
Average Price£363
Average Daily Sailings2
Average Weekly Sailings13
Average Sailing Duration8 h
Fastest Sailing Duration8 h
First Ferry10:30
Last Ferry22:30
Distance188 Nautical Miles

* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 November 2025.

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast Ferry Most Popular Questions

Ferry reviews

Liverpool Travel Guide

Ferries to Liverpool will take you to a buzzing city in the Northwest of England. It’s got a rich culture with countless museums and art galleries. Not forgetting it’s thriving music scene – as you would expect from the birthplace of The Beatles! The city is also home to many shops, bars and restaurants and two top premier league football teams – Liverpool and Everton. It’s the perfect place for a weekend break or a starting point for your northern adventure with popular cities like Manchester, Chester and Leeds all within easy reach.

Things to do in Liverpool

  • Wander along the Royal Albert Dock: stroll along the city’s vibrant waterfront where you’ll find museums, shops and restaurants.
  • Visit The Beatles Story: learn all about the band at this incredible museum. We'd also recommend paying a visit to the Cavern Club, where The Beatles started their career.
  • Check out the Museum of Liverpool: delve into the fascinating history of Liverpool at this exciting museum.
  • Enjoy the buzzing nightlife: there are so many pubs, bars and clubs to choose from. Popular nightlife spots include the Baltic Triangle, Mathew Street and Ropewalks.
  • Watch a football match: Liverpool play at Anfield whilst Everton play at Goodison Park.

How to get around Liverpool

You can walk around the city centre on foot. Liverpool also has a great public bus service. Buses are operated by Arriva and Stagecoach and each journey costs just £2 per adult. E-scooters are also available for hire. Alternatively, you can get a local taxi or an Uber.

About Liverpool Birkenhead port

Liverpool Birkenhead port is located just across the river from Liverpool, on the West Bank of the River Mersey. Stena Line operate out of the port, providing services between Liverpool Birkenhead and Belfast. The port is located just a short drive from both the M53 and the Mersey Tunnel which takes you to the centre of Liverpool.

How to get to Liverpool Birkenhead port

  • By car: If you’re coming from the south, follow the M53 to Junction 1 and then take the A554. If you’re coming from Liverpool, take the Wallasey (Kingsway) Tunnel river crossing to Birkenhead. Once you’re there, the port is well signposted. Look for signs saying ‘Stena Line’ or ‘12 Quays Terminal’.
  • By train: If you’re arriving by train, Hamilton Square train station is the closest station to the ferry terminal
  • By coach: National Express operate coaches to Liverpool from many major cities within the UK. 
  • By taxi: Local taxis or Ubers will be able to take you from Liverpool city centre to Liverpool Birkenhead

Liverpool Birkenhead port amenities

There are a range of amenities at Liverpool Birkenhead port including a passenger lounge, free Wi-Fi, accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, a coffee shop and a car park.

Liverpool Birkenhead port address

12 Quays Terminal, Tower Road, Birkenhead, CH41 1FE, United Kingdom


Belfast Travel Guide

The capital of Northern Ireland is an enticing mix of world-class museums, historic architecture, cool nightlife and an amazing culinary scene. With so much to see and do, it's the perfect destination for a weekend away. Mingle with locals in lively pubs, sample local delights in the bustling markets, explore world-class museums and admire the city's beautiful buildings. 

Things to do in Belfast

  • Visit the Titanic Museum: learn all about the city's maritime heritage and the iconic Titanic ship
  • Eat at St George's Market: wander through the market where you'll find many stalls serving local produce
  • Check out the Ulster Museum: learn about Belfast's past and present
  • Wander through the Cathedral Quarter: step back in time as you stroll through the cobblestone streets

How to get around Belfast

You can easily explore Belfast city centre by foot. The city also has a great bus network with services by Metro and Glider operating in the Belfast area. There are also plenty of places where you can hire bikes from if you fancy cycling around the city. Alternatively, taxis are available too.

About Belfast port

There are 2 ferry terminals in Belfast; the Victoria Terminal which is used for services between Northern Ireland, England and Scotland and the Isle of Man Steam Packet ferry terminal which is used for seasonal services between Belfast and the Isle of Man. Ferries between Liverpool and Belfast depart from the Victoria Terminal.

Belfast port location

The Victoria Terminal is located on West Bank Road in Belfast.

How to get to Belfast port

The Victoria Terminal is conveniently located just off junction 1 of the M2. Just look for the ‘Stena Line’ signs. For those without a car, you can get the Metro Service 96 from Upper Queen Street in Belfast city centre to West Bank Road in around 20 minutes.

Belfast port amenities

At the Stena Line terminal, you'll find a range of facilities including toilets, baby changing facilities, free Wi-Fi, a passenger lounge, coffee shop and vending machines. At the Steam Packet terminal, amenities include toilets and a snack bar.

Belfast port address

Victoria Terminal 2, West Bank Road, Belfast, BT3 9JN, Northern Ireland

Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast
Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 10/11/2025 and 16/11/2025

Operator Departure Time Arrival Time Duration Sailing Days
Stena Line 10:30 18:30 8 hours Everyday
Stena Line 22:00 06:30 8 hours 30 minutes Tue
Stena Line 22:30 06:30 8 hours Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun

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