Rosslare - Bilbao
Ferry to Spain
Rosslare - Bilbao
Ferry to Spain
Ferries from Rosslare to Bilbao are operated by 1 ferry company; Brittany Ferries. The journey usually takes around 31 hours 1 minute. There are currently 2 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Prices start from as little as £54. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Bilbao today.
Rosslare Bilbao ferry prices tend to range between £54* and £1251*. The average price for ferries from Rosslare Bilbao is typically £537*. The cheapest Rosslare Bilbao ferry prices start from £54*. The average foot passenger price is £424*. And the average price for a car is £670*.
Pricing will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over the last 30 days and is exclusive of service fees, last updated June 26.
We offer a quick and easy way to compare ferry tickets and prices, helping you find the journey that suits you best. Check out our Special Offers page for discounts on select routes and operators. Remember to book early to secure the best prices and availability!
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a wide range of discounts all year around. When searching for ferries, any senior discounts will be applied automatically if they are available. Just select your age range from the passenger options.
Students and graduates can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To take advantage of the discount, you need to register with our partner Student Beans to confirm your student or graduate status. You will then receive a discount code which can be entered during the payment process.
Resident discounts are available on a variety of Spanish and Italian ferry routes. Just click on the "Residents" option when this is displayed. The discount is automatically applied to the price. Bear in mind that proof of registration or an identity card with the correct address must be shown at check-in.
The Rosslare to Bilbao ferry times may vary depending on the ferry operator and season you’re travelling in. Sailings are usually more frequent during the peak summer months, whilst schedules may be reduced during the off-season. We recommend searching for your preferred travel dates to view the most up-to-date ferry timetable.
The first Rosslare Bilbao ferry usually departs from Rosslare at around 09:00. The last ferry usually departs at 23:59.
Due to the crossing time, ferries between Rosslare and Bilbao are more suited to weekend trips or longer stays so you can really make the most of your time in Bilbao - if you’re looking for inspiration or things to do while you’re there, check out our blog.
Yes, Brittany Ferries allow cars on board ferries between Rosslare and Bilbao. The average price for a car is £670. Check out our Deal Finder for the latest prices.
Here are our top tips for travelling with a car:
Speed limits in Spain:
Whether you can bring your campervan on the ferry from Rosslare to Bilbao depends on various factors such as the ship and operator of your preferred crossing. To find out if you can take your campervan on board, just enter your details and we’ll compare operators on your selected route.
Visit our blog for more practical tips and travel inspiration when travelling with a car, campervan or caravan.
Yes, you can bring a bicycle on a ferry from Rosslare to Bilbao with Brittany Ferries. In general, most ferry companies allow bicycles on board, but it is always best to check the operator’s bicycle policy to avoid any bad surprises at the departure port.
Yes, foot passengers can travel with Brittany Ferries ferries between Rosslare and Bilbao. Prices for foot passengers start from £54.
Pets are currently not allowed on board ferries from Rosslare to Bilbao. Use our Deal Finder to find alternative routes that offer travel options for pets.
Even if pets are not allowed on board, different regulations may apply to passengers travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs. You can check the specific rules on your preferred sailing with our customer service team. For general information on travelling with assistance dogs and guide dogs, visit our Special Assistance Help page.
Yes, overnight sailings are available on ferries from Rosslare to Bilbao.
Overnight ferries can sometimes take a little longer than daytime crossings, but they come with several perks. Sailing overnight means your travel time doesn’t cut into your daytime plans, and ferries and terminals are often cheaper, creating a more relaxing sailing. Overnight crossings can also be cheaper than daytime sailings, making them a great option if you’re travelling on a budget.
If you’re planning an overnight trip, we recommend booking your cabin in advance, as these can sell out quickly.
You can get a direct ferry from Rosslare to Bilbao. Although flights from Ireland to Spain are available too, getting a ferry is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel between Rosslare and Bilbao.
Depending on the operator you choose, ferries offer much more flexibility, allowing you to bring your vehicle and pet along too. Plus, you can often take more luggage than you usually can on a plane. Travelling by ferry is also a relaxing and scenic experience so you can arrive in Bilbao feeling refreshed and ready to explore!
How early you need to arrive at Rosslare ferry port depends on the ferry company you are travelling with and how you are travelling, so it’s always best to check your booking confirmation in advance.
Rosslare ferry port is easy to navigate with clear signage and a well-organised vehicle check-in process. Even so, arriving early is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey, especially during the peak summer months.
As a general guide, we recommend arriving 45–60 minutes before departure if you’re travelling as a foot passenger. If you’re bringing a car or campervan, aim to arrive at least 60–90 minutes in advance to allow time for check-in and vehicle procedures.
Yes, first class is available on the Rosslare to Bilbao ferry route, providing a more premium and comfortable experience.
Facilities vary depending on the operator and ship but often include priority boarding and access to exclusive lounges with spacious seating, power sockets and speedy Wi-Fi. On some routes, first class may also include complimentary meals, drinks, or snacks. For longer or overnight crossings, you may have the option of upgrading to premium cabins with sea views and better amenities.
Yes, a large car park with 335 spaces is available just a short walk from the terminal at Rosslare ferry port. Prices start from €1 for an hour, €5 for a day and €25 for a week. You can pay by cash or card. Parking bays for passengers with reduced mobility are also available next to the terminal.
We recommend arriving early as port car parks can fill up quickly, especially during the busy summer months or at weekends.
If you’re looking for accommodation near the port of Rosslare before your journey, be sure to check out our Accommodation page for the best deals and prices. You’ll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets and travel styles.
Staying close to the port can make your journey much more relaxing – just wake up and head straight to your ferry! We recommend booking as early as possible to secure the cheapest prices and availability, especially during peak travel periods when accommodation can fill up quickly.
Many ferry operators aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, but facilities can vary by ship. For more information, we recommend checking directly with the ferry operator you are travelling with.
Ferries are often equipped with facilities such as step-free access, accessible cabins and toilets and dedicated seating areas. If you require assistance on board, then make sure you let the ferry operator know well in advance, so they make any special arrangements to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible.
The facilities available on board the ferry to Bilbao depend on the operator and the vessel you’re travelling on, so it’s a good idea to check in advance what to expect. Longer crossings typically offer a wider range of facilities, including comfortable cabins, multiple dining options, pet-friendly amenities and onboard entertainment.
Accommodation and seating on ferries from Rosslare to Bilbao vary depending on the ferry operator and the length of the journey. Prices can also differ based on the operator, sailing time, and season.
For full details on the types of accommodation and seating available on board, check the ship information section at the bottom of this page or visit our ship page.
Luggage allowances on ferries between Rosslare and Bilbao can vary depending on the operator. Whilst many ferries don’t have strict limits, it’s always best to check in advance, as larger or additional items may incur an extra fee. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, you’ll usually be able to bring more luggage with you.
Ferries arrive into the Port of Bilbao, around 12 miles from the centre of Bilbao. Shuttle buses operate around every 20 minutes, connecting the port with the centre. Alternatively, taxis are available at the port. Santurtzi (Line 2) is the nearest metro station, located around 2 miles away which takes you to central Bilbao in around 25-30 minutes. For more information, check out our port guide below.
The time it takes to disembark the ferry from Rosslare to Bilbao can vary depending on the ferry operator, the size of the ship, and the number of passengers and vehicles on board.
Foot passengers generally disembark the quickest, usually within 10 to 20 minutes, whilst passengers with vehicles often have to wait slightly longer, usually around 20 to 45 minutes. However, the exact times depend on the size of the ferry and how busy it is.
When travelling to Spain, there are a few things to bear in mind:
Travel requirements can vary depending on the route, so it's important to check what documents you'll need before sailing. In most cases, a valid passport is required when travelling from Rosslare to Bilbao, along with any necessary visas or national ID cards. Requirements may differ based on your nationality and the destination country’s regulations. To avoid delays at check-in, you can find helpful information for your journey in our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and in our blog post on tips and tricks for international travel.
Although it’s sometimes possible to buy tickets at the port on the day of travel, we recommend booking your sailing in advance. Ferry crossings can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer periods or on weekends.
Booking your ferry tickets to Bilbao ahead of time allows you to secure your preferred sailing and often save money, as prices tend to be lower the earlier you book. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, it’s especially important to reserve in advance to guarantee a space on board.
How early you need to arrive at the ferry port depends on the ferry company you’re travelling with, so it’s always best to check with your ferry operator in advance. The latest check-in time for your Rosslare to Bilbao ferry booking will often be included in your booking confirmation email.
Check-in times can vary depending on whether you’re travelling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle, with those travelling with cars, campervans or caravans usually required to arrive earlier. Either way, we’d recommend allowing plenty of time for check-in especially during peak season.
To book your ferry tickets, simply enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to see all available options and prices. You’ll also be able to view alternative routes and times, so you can find the best deal to suit you.
Look out for early booking discounts or special ticket options such as upgrades or flexi-tickets that allow you to change or cancel your booking. To make your sailing as smooth as possible, make sure you enter all the required information correctly, such as the number of passengers and vehicle specifications.
Once you’ve finalised your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It depends on the ferry operator you book with as to how your boarding pass is issued and collected.
Whilst some ferry operators issue the boarding pass as soon as your booking is confirmed, others may ask you to check in at the port. There’s also the option for online check-in, which can be done easily via the Direct Ferries app, if available.
The ticket desks are usually located near the ferry terminals. To avoid any delays at the port, we’d recommend allowing some extra time to collect your tickets and to check-in.
During check-in, you’ll need to show your email confirmation along with an official photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If you booked your ticket with a resident discount, proof of residence may also be required. If you’re travelling with a pet, you may also be asked to provide documentation showing their vaccinations and insurance.
There could be various reasons why there are no departures from Rosslare to Bilbao for the date you’ve requested. Possible reasons include:
If your preferred sailing isn’t available, then we’d recommend checking other dates or looking for overnight crossings as these can sometimes be quieter. We’d also recommend looking at alternative departure or arrival ports.
The best time to book ferries from Rosslare to Bilbao is usually as early as possible. By booking in advance, you’ll not only get your tickets at the best available prices, but you’ll also get a better choice of departure times and cabin/seating options.
This is particularly important during peak season, when demand is high and popular routes can sell out quickly. Even in the off-season, booking ahead can help you save money.
We’d recommend making your booking at least a few weeks in advance to benefit from the best offers. Bear in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
Don’t forget to check our Special Offers page for the latest discounts and deals on crossings from Rosslare to Bilbao.
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| Rosslare - Bilbao Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | £424 | |
| Average Price with Car | £670 | |
| Average Price with Motorbike | £426 | |
| Average Campervan Price | £734 | |
| Average Cabin Price | £583 | |
| Rosslare - Bilbao Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ireland |
| Destination | Spain |
| No. of Operators | 1 |
| Operators | Brittany Ferries |
| Average Price | £537 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 1 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 2 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 31 h 1 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 27 h 30 m |
| First Ferry | 09:00 |
| Last Ferry | 23:59 |
| Distance | 567 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 June 2026.
The Irish village of Rosslare, or Rosslare Strand to give it is full name, is a coastal resort and port located in County Wexford, Ireland. Separating Wexford Harbour from the North Sea is a long sandspit which stretches north from Rosslare which until the 1920's stretched for many more miles north. At one point the spit almost reached Raven Point, giving Wexford Harbour a very narrow mouth. However, a storm breached the spit during the winter of 1924-25 and was thereafter gradually washed away. Located at the end of the spit was Rosslare Fort which is now abandoned. All that remains is a small island visible at low tide.
The village is supposed to be the sunniest in Ireland and has been a popular tourist resort for at least the last 100 years. The town's beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and therefore attracts many bathers and families.
The town's modern port has good passenger facilities and provides ferry services to Pembroke, with a crossing time of around 4 hours, Fishguard, 3 hours and 30 minutes and Cherbourg and Roscoff in France. Passenger facilities include a restaurant, a bar, children's play area and a waiting area.
The Spanish city and port of Bilbao is the capital of the province of Bizkaia and lies on the banks of the Nervion River, which joins the Cantabrian Sea 11 km further downstream. The river has been important to the city's development since it was established in the 14th century. Along with the other towns that are situated along both banks of the river until it reaches the sea, Bilbao forms the Greater Bilbao area and has a lively cultural scene which visitors to the city enjoy. If performing arts is of particular interest then the Teatro Arriaga and Euskalduna Concert Hall are definitely worth a visit as is the Fine Arts Museum which is located at the edge of the Dona Casilda Park. The Park's famous neighbour is the famous Guggenheim Museum with its Frank Gehry designed building.
The Port of Bilbao is located on the Bilbao Abra bay, and along the Estuary of Bilbao, in Biscay (Basque Country). The main facilities are in the Santurtzi and Zierbena municipalities, approximately 15 km west of Bilbao. Brittany Ferries operate the Portsmouth to Bilbao route, with their boat, the MV Cap Finistère.
