Ferry to Ireland from Spain: Complete Guide to Travelling by Ferry

Travelling by ferry to Ireland from Spain is one of the most comfortable and flexible ways to reach the Emerald Isle, especially if you want to bring your car, motorbike or motorhome. This option allows you to enjoy the sea crossing while connecting directly with southern Ireland or via routes through France, without the usual limitations of flying.

Ireland is the perfect destination for travellers looking for nature, scenic road trips, charming villages and a unique culture. Travelling by ferry has become an increasingly popular alternative, allowing you to arrive with complete freedom and start your adventure from the very first moment.

In this guide, we explain the available ferry routes, the main ports of arrival in Ireland, how connections from Spain work and everything you should know before boarding.

1. Why travel by ferry to Ireland from Spain?

The ferry is an especially attractive option for travelling to Ireland because it allows you to explore the country with complete freedom from the moment you disembark.

Its main advantages are:

• Travel with your car, motorbike or motorhome without restrictions.
• Take your luggage without the strict limits imposed by airlines.
• Travel with pets much more comfortably.
• Enjoy the journey as part of the travel experience.
• Connect directly with southern Ireland or via France.
• Ideal for road trips and nature holidays.

In addition, Ireland is a perfect country to explore by car: scenic roads, spectacular coastal routes and charming villages make having your own vehicle almost essential.

2. Ferry routes from Spain to Ireland

There are currently direct ferry connections as well as routes via France, making it easy to reach Ireland.

Santander – Rosslare Ferry

One of the most important routes for travelling directly from northern Spain to Ireland.

It connects Cantabria with the southeast of Ireland, making it an excellent option for travellers who want to avoid stopovers.

From Rosslare, you can easily reach Dublin, Cork and southern Ireland.

Book your ticket: Santander – Rosslare Ferry.

Bilbao – Rosslare Ferry

The connection between Bilbao and Rosslare is a very convenient alternative for travelling from the Basque Country.

It allows you to board with your vehicle and arrive directly on Ireland's east coast.

Book your ticket: Bilbao – Rosslare Ferry.

Routes to Ireland via France

Another very popular way to travel to Ireland is to combine Spain + France + Ireland.

The most commonly used routes include:

• Cork – Roscoff
• Rosslare – Cherbourg
• Rosslare – Le Havre
• Rosslare – Roscoff

These options allow you to split your journey and combine it with a road trip through France before arriving in Ireland.

3. Arrival ports in Ireland

Ireland has two main ports for travellers arriving by ferry from Spain or France.

Rosslare

Rosslare is one of the main gateways to southeast Ireland.

It is the ideal starting point for routes towards:

• Dublin
• Waterford
• Kilkenny
• The southeast Irish coast

Its location makes it a strategic point to begin a road trip across the country.

Cork

Cork is the main port in southern Ireland and an excellent gateway for exploring the country's warmest and most accessible region.

From here you can visit:

• Cork City
• Ring of Kerry
• Dingle Peninsula
• The southwest Irish coast

4. What is the ferry experience to Ireland like?

The ferries connecting Spain with Ireland are designed for medium and long-distance crossings, offering full onboard services.

Cabins and rest

You can choose from private cabins to rest during the crossing, with different categories depending on the level of comfort.

Onboard dining

Restaurants, cafés and bars where you can enjoy meals throughout the journey.

Common areas

Spacious lounges and outdoor decks where you can relax during the voyage.

Travelling with your vehicle

One of the greatest advantages is being able to board with:

• Car
• Motorbike
• Motorhome
• Van

This allows you to explore Ireland with complete freedom.

Travelling with pets

Many ferries allow pets on board, with dedicated areas and pet-friendly cabins.

5. Documents required to travel to Ireland

Before boarding, it is important to check the entry requirements:

• Valid passport.
• Vehicle documentation if travelling by car.
• Valid insurance for driving in Ireland.
• Specific requirements for pets if travelling with them.

Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so it is essential to check all travel documentation before departure.

6. Tips for travelling by ferry to Ireland from Spain

Some useful tips to help you plan your trip:

• Book in advance, especially during summer.
• Choose a cabin if travelling overnight.
• Bring comfortable clothing for the crossing.
• Plan your road trip before arriving.
• Check the conditions for travelling with pets and vehicles.

7. Which destination should you choose in Ireland?

Rosslare, ideal for...

• Travelling to Dublin.
• Exploring the southeast of the country.
• Quick road trips.

Cork, ideal for...

• Discovering southern Ireland.
• Driving the Ring of Kerry.
• Nature holidays and green landscapes.

8. Frequently asked questions about the ferry to Ireland from Spain

Is there a direct ferry to Ireland from Spain?

Yes, there are direct routes from Santander and Bilbao to Rosslare.

Can I travel with my car?

Yes, the ferry allows you to board with your vehicle without any problems.

Can I travel with my pet?

Yes, many routes allow pets on board under specific conditions.

How long does the journey take?

The duration of the ferry journey from Spain to Ireland varies depending on the route you choose:

• Direct routes (Santander or Bilbao → Rosslare): usually take between 27 and 30 hours, depending on the vessel and sailing conditions.
• Routes via France (for example Roscoff, Cherbourg or Le Havre → Cork or Rosslare): the total ferry time can range from 20 to more than 30 hours, but you must also add the road journey between Spain and the French port.

What documents do I need?

A valid passport and your vehicle documentation if travelling by car.

Book your ferry to Ireland from Spain

Travelling to Ireland by ferry is a comfortable, flexible and ideal way to discover the country at your own pace. Whether you arrive directly in Rosslare or Cork, or combine your trip with France, you can begin your Irish adventure with complete freedom from the very first moment.