Operated by Stena Line on the Holyhead Dun Laoghaire route
Stena HSS Explorer is among the world's largest catamarans and can carry 1,500 passengers and around 350 cars. Onboard you’ll find bars, restaurants, impressive shopping a children’s play area and a selection of lounges including the exclusive Stena Plus lounge.
Stena HSS Explorer
"Quick and comfortable"
Reviewed 06 March 2012 by Hanspeter Nerad
For us and our dog the ferry service between GB and Ireland is the quickest and most comfortable option. I don’t travel well on ships, so this short connection is the best for me. Very quick and efficient boarding means this is very pleasant and uncomplicated. The atmosphere on board is lovely, the crew is very helpful and friendly. All in all we can really highly recommend it. We are already looking forward to our next trip to Ireland in May 2012!
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Due to the short journey time there are no cabins available however the Stena Plus lounge on this ship is a 170 seat luxurious lounge at the front of the craft for the best views across the Irish Sea. The Stena Plus option which can be pre-booked includes express boarding and disembarkation, or you may upgrade when onboard if space permits (lounge access only).
The Metropolitan Bar is located at the centre of the craft where there is plenty of seating and you can relax and watch the big screen tv while being served a range of continental beers and wines.
The Food City restaurant is also located in the centre of the craft with ample seating nearby. Food City offers a range of tasty hot food options including fish & chips, steak pie, pasta and a selection of kids meals.
Passengers who travel in the luxurious Stena Plus Lounge can enjoy waiter service and a premium menu which includes a range of speciality dishes and old favourites.
You can shop to your heart's content during the crossing in the Stena shop. Here you will find something for everyone; from lovely perfumes for women and men to Irish whiskeys and other liquors.
Television screens are dotted throughout the ship for your viewing pleasure. There's a Bureau de Change, free wifi and a video game arcade. There is also an observation area at the front of the ship.
Curious George™ themed play area provides a safe and fun environment for children showing the popular “George” DVDs. There are bead trees, memory blocks, colouring stations and chalk boards to keep kids occupied! And for parents peace of mind there is a seating area close by to relax and keep an eye on the little ones. Older children and can play fun video games in the games and video arcade.
Please note: Whilst we have taken great care in making our Stena HSS Explorer guide as accurate as possible, onboard facilities, services and entertainment may vary depending on the date and time of year that you travel, facilities mentioned may change without notification and ferry companies reserve the right to operate vessels other than those mentioned at time of booking without prior notification.