Holyhead to Dublin: Alternative ferry routes
Travel Advice
1 June 2026
Holyhead to Dublin: Alternative ferry routes
Travelling from Ireland to Wales is a popular route, with many travellers opting for the Holyhead to Dublin ferry which takes just over 3 hours. However, this isn’t the only option. Depending on the location you’re travelling from and your final destination, alternative routes between Ireland and Wales may actually be more convenient.
Keep reading to discover some popular alternatives to the Holyhead to Dublin ferry and see which route suits you best.
Comparison: getting to Ireland from Wales
| Route | Duration | Price (from) | Frequency | Best for |
| Pembroke to Rosslare | 4 Hours 1 Minute | £42 | 13 sailings per week | South and south-west Ireland, quieter crossings, and travellers from south Wales or south west England |
| Fishguard to Rosslare | 3 Hours 30 Minutes | £38 | 13 sailings per week | Easy access to southern Ireland and convenient travel from south Wales |
Alternative routes
Pembroke to Rosslare
Pembroke makes a great alternative departure port for travelling between Wales and Ireland. It’s located around 114 miles south of Holyhead, it’s especially convenient for travellers coming from south Wales or the south of England, helping to reduce driving time in the UK before you reach the terminal.
Although the crossing to Ireland is slightly longer than Holyhead to Dublin, the port is often quieter and less congested and therefore offers a more relaxing start to your journey.
Instead of arriving in Dublin, the route arrives into Rosslare in the south east of Ireland. It’s located around 100 miles from Dublin, making it a more convenient arrival point if you’re planning on exploring southern Ireland, saving your valuable driving time once you arrive.
| How to get to Pembroke from Holyhead |
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| Ideal for |
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| Nearby landmarks | Visit Pembroke Castle, the birthplace of Henry VII and explore the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park with its beautiful coastal landscapes |
| Travel by | Ferries from Pembroke to Rosslare allow
|
Fishguard to Rosslare
Fishguard also makes a great alternative to Holyhead, especially if you’re coming from south Wales or the south of England. Located around 135 miles south of Holyhead, it reduces driving time in the UK as you don’t need to drive further north.
The route is also usually quieter than Holyhead to Dublin, making it a good option if you’re looking for a more relaxed crossing with fewer crowds and less congestion.
The ferry arrives in Rosslare in south east Ireland, which can be a more convenient option if you’re planning on exploring southern Ireland. Prices on the Fishguard to Rosslare route can also sometimes be cheaper, especially if you book them in advance, so it’s a good option if you’re on a budget.
| How to get to Fishguard from Holyhead |
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| Ideal for |
|
| Nearby landmarks | Visit the 18th century Fishguard Fort, embark on the coastal paths of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and soak up the stunning views from Strumble Head Lighthouse |
| Travel by | Ferries from Fishguard to Rosslare allow
|
Decision guide: Which ferry is the right one for me?
| Cheapest | Fishguard to Rosslare |
| Fastest | Fishguard to Rosslare |
| Easiest to reach from Holyhead | Fishguard to Rosslare |
| Best for destination/landmark | Pembroke is better for historic landmarks, whilst Fishguard is best for natural beauty |
Holyhead to Dublin may be the most popular ferry route between Wales and Ireland, but alternatives such as Pembroke to Rosslare and Fishguard to Rosslare can be just as or even more convenient depending on your travel plans.
Both routes are well suited to travellers coming from south Wales and the south of England, and they provide easier access to southern Ireland. They also tend to be quieter than Holyhead, making them a good choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed crossing experience.
Compare routes and prices at Direct Ferries and find the best option for you.