Do you long for a vacation to France but cringe at the idea of overcrowded planes and never-ending security lines? Irish Ferries is your one-stop shop for a carefree and entertaining voyage across the water. Irish Ferries provides a hassle-free and relaxing means of travelling to the beautiful French coasts from either Ireland or the United Kingdom. Join me as I explore the many ways in which taking a ferry could enhance your next vacation.
A Fleet to Be Reckoned With
An outstanding fleet of eight contemporary vessels operating on routes between Ireland, Britain, and France is boasted by Irish Ferries, a branch of the Irish Continental Group. With ships that can meet the needs of any visitor, the Irish Sea offers up to sixteen daily sailings. There is a ship for every taste, from the brand new and magnificent Oscar Wilde to the world-famous Ulysses and the lightning-quick Dublin Swift, the sole fast boat in the Irish Sea.
If you’re planning a trip to France, the acclaimed W.B. Yeats can help you make the most of your nighttime journey. With up to three weekly sailings year-round, this magnificent vessel provides a cruise-like experience that will rejuvenate you before you set foot on French soil.
Furthermore, Irish Ferries broadened its scope in June 2021 when it introduced a service from Dover to Calais. The three-ship fleet (Isle of Inishmore, Isle of Innisfree, and Isle of Inisheer) now makes the English Channel passage easier than ever before, with as many as thirty sailings each day.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
More than 2.3 million people and 573,400 vehicles were carried between Ireland, Britain, and France by Irish Ferries in 2022. The company’s reliability and popularity among travellers are demonstrated by these excellent results. So, what exactly sets Irish Ferries apart from its competitors? What makes travellers keep returning back year after year? Let’s take a look.
Bring Your Furry Friends Along
The freedom to bring your dogs on board is a major perk of taking a ferry journey. Irish Ferries has special kennels on board for your four-legged friends, whether they’re dogs, cats, or ferrets. They say that a water bowl and a familiar blanket or bedding will make the trip go more smoothly. You can even bring your pet along for the ride and even take them for a stroll with you, thanks to the crew’s generous provisions.
Luxurious Accommodations
Modern nautical engineering is on full display aboard the W.B. Yeats, the jewel in Irish Ferries‘ crown along the France route. This ship offers a genuine cruise experience with its capacity for 1,800 passengers and 300 automobiles. Beautiful public spaces, such as the ‘Innisfree’ Club Class Lounge and the ‘Maud Gonne’ lounge and bar, complement the ship’s restful bedrooms and suites.
Irish Ferries‘ tradition of recognising great literary giants is continued by naming the W.B. Yeats after the famous Irish poet. Several conveniences are available onboard to ensure that you have a pleasant and relaxing trip. The ship has a cinema, a restaurant called the “Lady Gregory Restaurant,” and shops where you can get your retail therapy fix.
Pack to Your Heart’s Content
The big baggage allowance is also another great perk of using a ferry. Travelling by automobile allows you the freedom to pack as much personal baggage as your vehicle can accommodate. This eliminates the stress of thinking about paying extra for overweight bags or second-guessing which clothes to bring along. Even now heavier items need to go through the baggage claim area, foot passengers can still bring necessities like purses, computers, and diaper bags.
Great Arrival Times in France
Irish Ferries understands that your holiday begins the moment you step off the ship. That’s why they’ve designed their schedules to ensure great arrival times in France. This means you can hit the ground running and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
Adventures Around Paris
Everything is possible once you’ve landed in France. Paris is the pinnacle of travel destinations for many people. Having said that, staying in the city centre can be both expensive and chaotic. If you’re looking for a place to stay outside of Paris that’s convenient to the city’s sights while also providing a tranquil getaway at the end of a long day, Irish Ferries has you covered.
The Champagne region, with its hillside vineyards and cellars that are recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and the picturesque town of Giverny, which is home to Claude Monet’s famed house and gardens, are two wonderful options for a vacation. With its magnificent gothic cathedral and Art Deco architecture, the entrance to Champagne, Reims, provides a fusion of history and modernity.
Rambouillet, a royal town, is ideal for families on vacation because to its beautiful château and Rambolitrain museum. The Bois de Vincennes is the biggest public park in Paris and is a haven for nature enthusiasts thanks to its botanical gardens, zoo, and other attractions.
You won’t want to miss Chantilly if you enjoy horseback riding. It is a paradise for equestrians, with picturesque stables, a world-renowned racecourse, and the Château de Chantilly (which you may remember from the James Bond film “A View to a Kill”).
Parc Astérix, the second-largest theme park in France, is a must-visit for thrill seekers, while history buffs should stop by Meaux to see the museum dedicated to World War I.
Just a short drive from the French capital is the enchanted realm of Disneyland Paris, an absolute must-visit for any family vacation to France.
Ready to Set Sail?
Compared to flying, taking a ferry to France is a much more memorable and exciting vacation option. Irish Ferries allows you to start your vacation the minute you board the ship with spacious cabins, first-rate services, and the freedom to carry all the bags you need.
So why wait? Start planning your French adventure today with Irish Ferries. Your vacation will be relaxing and unforgettable whether you’re flying out of Dublin or London. To find routes, see schedules, and make a reservation, go to the Irish Ferries website. A ferry voyage will transport you to the ideal French retreat!
