Rail and Sail to Ireland
Rail & Sail tickets make your journeys to Ireland as straightforward as possible. That’s why we’ve decided to team up with Irish Ferries and Stena Line, to give you a comfortable alternative to flights when travelling from the UK to Ireland.
Hop on a train from your station to the port, and then continue your journey on a ferry across the Irish Sea with your combined Rail & Sail tickets. It’s a cheap, stress-free travel experience for the whole family. And it's easy too! Simply search for tickets to Dublin or Rosslare Europort in our widget above. Fancy jumping on-board? Find out more below.
Trains and Ferries to Ireland
Although trains may not be able to take you all the way to Ireland, what they can do is get you to a ferry. So, find out details about the routes below, including the popular London Euston to Dublin route.
Save money, travel by rail and sea
Just imagine it, a train and a ferry in one simple booking, at an affordable price... Score! As an example, you'll be looking at fares that generally start at £47.60 if you travel from London to Dublin (with no extra costs for your baggage).
Just make sure to book your tickets in advance to get the best price. Remember, tickets are usually available between 9 and 12 weeks before the departure date.
*Please note that any prices mentioned are accurate as of July 2018, and may be subject to change (based on train and ferry operators).
Travel by ferry
If you love the gentle roll of the waves and the fresh sea air, then what could be better than catching a ferry to Ireland? You'll have all the time in the world. Take in some great views, read a book or even do some work on your way across the Irish Sea. The choice is yours.
Exclusive lounges from just £16
Forget the check-in queues, horrible waiting times and all the hassle at the airport, because you'll be trading that in for gorgeous panoramic views from the deck of your ferry. Combine this with a peaceful train journey and you'll be well on your way to a stress-busting Ireland break.
Looking to travel in style? Treat yourself to exclusive lounges (Club Class and Stena Plus Lounge) and take advantage of super comfy seating, complimentary drinks, snacks and newspapers — from just £16 per passenger. And don’t forget the eco-friendly side of the ferry — did you know that travelling by sea massively reduces your CO2 emission?
On-board services
In addition to the stunning views and the gentle roll of the sea, there are plenty of onboard activities to keep the whole family occupied. Why not kill a bit of time browsing the shops? Or, if you're hungry, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants! Snacks? gastro-food? It's all covered here.
There's also free WiFi on all ferries, perfect for staying connected while out at sea. And, if the internet somehow fails to keep you busy, these ferries now come with their very own cinema screens!
Take more luggage with you
Not a lightweight traveller? Not a problem! Rail & Sail baggage restrictions aren’t strict like those at the airports. While Stena Line ferries don't have any limitations, Irish Ferries allow two 22kg suitcases per person and a smaller piece of hand luggage. You can also take bicycles onboard both.
As for trains, you're generally only allowed to take two large items like suitcases along with an extra smaller piece of hand luggage, although you may be able to take additional large items (at an additional charge). As a rule of thumb, make sure to check with your Train company ahead of travelling (the same goes if you're taking a bicycle).
Rules for pets
Good news for all pet lovers — you can take your pets with you! The rules are easy. Dogs, cats and smaller animals are allowed. You can bring up to two animals per passenger as long as they’re either on a lead or in a closed transportation container. You can also try buying an Off-Peak ticket, for a quieter journey.
Aboard Stena Line ferries, pets aren't allowed in the passenger areas on both the Holyhead to Dublin and Fishguard to Rosslare routes. However, they can be placed in pet traveller’s cases on the car deck.
If you plan to travel with Irish Ferries, you always have to transport your pet in a cage or box that allows the animal to stand and lie down but can easily be carried on board by you. The travel cages will be kept on the car deck for the duration of the journey.
Rail & Sail Info
Good to know
Children under 5 travel free
Bikes - £10 on ferries
Holyhead to Dublin
Irish Ferries approximate journey time: 2 hours.
Stena Line approximate journey time: 3 hours 15 minutes.
Fishguard to Rosslare
Stena Line approximate journey time: 3 hours 15 minutes.
Ferry Services Provided by
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