Taking the Holyhead to Dublin Ferry

Our Holyhead to Dublin Ferry adventure began long before sunrise with our earliest morning of the trip. After spending several wonderful days exploring North Wales, including our visits to Conwy Castle and Caernarfon Castle and Swallow Falls, the alarm sounded at 5:00 a.m. so we could pack up, leave our accommodations in Caernarfon, and make the drive to Holyhead.

Originally, we had booked a later afternoon ferry, but several weeks before our trip, Irish Ferries notified us that the Port of Holyhead was experiencing heavy daytime congestion. As a result, our scheduled sailing had been canceled, and we were automatically moved to the 7:30 a.m. departure instead.

While the early wake-up call wasn’t exactly what we had envisioned, everything went smoothly. We dropped off our rental car, checked in without any problems, and soon found ourselves boarding the ferry that would carry us across the Irish Sea to Dublin.

Traveling from Holyhead to Dublin by Ferry: Quick Facts:

Relaxing in the First-Class Lounge

Rather than spending the crossing in the general seating areas, we treated ourselves to first-class tickets, and it turned out to be one of the best travel decisions we made.

The first-class lounge, located toward the bow of the ship, was quiet, comfortable, and offered panoramic views through large windows. Plush sofas provided the perfect place to relax during the 3½-hour crossing.

A complimentary continental breakfast buffet was available throughout the voyage with:

• Fresh pastries
• Fruit
• Yogurt
• Coffee and tea
• Juice
• Wine for those wanting an early celebration

Most of the voyage was spent enjoying our coffee and simply watching the sea pass by. Every now and then we’d wander the ship, browse the souvenir shops, or step outside on deck to enjoy the fresh air.

Watching Holyhead disappear behind us, seeing nothing but the blue waters of the Irish Sea, and finally spotting Dublin’s harbor coming into view made the crossing feel like part of the vacation rather than just transportation.

After days spent exploring the historic castles, charming villages, and beautiful countryside of England and Wales, we were excited to begin the next chapter of our adventure in Ireland. If you’re planning a similar journey, check out our guide to 10 Castles and Royal Landmarks in England and Wales for some of our favorite stops along the way.

Arriving at Dublin Port and Checking Into Our Hotel

Once we docked in Dublin, collecting our luggage was quick and easy. We grabbed an Uber and headed directly to our hotel.

To our surprise, our room was already ready despite arriving well before the normal check-in time. Being able to unpack, freshen up, and change clothes before heading out made the rest of the afternoon much more enjoyable.

With our bags settled, it was time for one of the attractions we had been looking forward to for months.

Visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

We set off on foot through downtown Dublin, crossed the River Liffey, and made the uphill walk to the famous Guinness Storehouse.

From the outside, it still resembles the industrial brewery it once was. Inside, however, the building has been completely transformed into a modern, interactive visitor experience while preserving its historic character. The original brewhouse now houses seven fascinating floors dedicated to the history, brewing process, advertising, and global influence of Guinness.

As we made our way upward through the exhibits, we learned about:

• The brewing process from grain to glass
• The history of Guinness and Arthur Guinness
• Traditional barrel making
• The ingredients that create Guinness’ distinctive flavor
• Some of the company’s most memorable advertising campaigns

Every floor offered something different, making the experience feel much more like an interactive museum than simply a brewery tour.

The Guinness Storehouse Tasting Experience

One of the highlights was the guided tasting experience.

Inside a specially designed tasting room, we were introduced to the aromas that define Guinness:

• Roasted barley
• Malted barley
• Hops
• Beer esters

Each guest received a small tasting glass and was encouraged not to rush.

Rather than immediately drinking it, we were asked to first smell the beer, identify the different aromas, then take a generous sip—at least half the glass—to experience the beer itself instead of just the creamy foam. We then allowed the flavors to linger before swallowing.

It was a surprisingly educational experience and gave us a new appreciation for what goes into every pint.

The Gravity Bar: 360-Degree Views of Dublin

Our tour concluded on the seventh floor at the famous Gravity Bar, one of Dublin’s most recognizable viewpoints.

Surrounded entirely by glass, the bar offers spectacular 360-degree views across the city of Dublin.

Each admission includes a complimentary beverage.

My husband and I each enjoyed a traditional pint of Guinness, while our daughter chose one of the specialty offerings—a Guinness infused with red currant, giving the classic stout a slightly fruity twist. For guests who don’t drink alcohol, Guinness 0.0 and soft drinks are also available.

Despite the crowds, we managed to find a table where we could sit, relax, admire the city skyline, and simply enjoy the moment.

Before leaving, we couldn’t resist another stop in the gift shop.

Being the Guinness fan that he is, my husband left with two Guinness shirts and a hat, while our daughter found the perfect souvenir—a 1,000-piece Guinness puzzle to take home.

Dinner at the Guinness Storehouse: 1837 Bar & Brasserie

Rather than leaving for dinner elsewhere, we had reserved a table inside the 1837 Bar & Brasserie, located within the Guinness Storehouse.

The restaurant proved to be the perfect ending to our visit! Each of us ordered a meal prepared using Guinness in different ways, showcasing just how versatile the famous stout can be in cooking. Rich flavors, hearty portions, and beautifully presented dishes made it one of our favorite dinners of the trip. By the time we finished, we were more than satisfied—and perhaps just a little too full.

Thankfully, the long walk back through Dublin toward our hotel helped balance out the meal before we called it an early night.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling from Wales to Ireland

How long does the ferry take from Holyhead to Dublin?

Our Irish Ferries crossing from Holyhead, Wales, to Dublin, Ireland, took approximately 3½ hours. The journey offers comfortable seating, onboard dining, and beautiful views of the Irish Sea.

Is first class worth it on Irish Ferries?

Based on our experience, upgrading to first class was definitely worthwhile. We enjoyed comfortable sofas, a quieter lounge near the bow of the ship, and complimentary refreshments throughout the crossing. It made the journey relaxing rather than simply a way to get from Wales to Ireland.

Can you travel from Wales to Ireland without flying?

Yes! Passenger ferries operate between Holyhead in North Wales and Dublin, Ireland. Traveling by ferry is a convenient alternative to flying, especially when combining a visit to Wales with a trip to Ireland.

How do you get from Dublin Port to the city center?

After arriving at Dublin Port, we collected our luggage and took an Uber directly to our hotel. Taxis and other transportation options are also available, although availability and pickup arrangements can vary.

How long does it take to tour the Guinness Storehouse?

Plan approximately 2–3 hours to explore the seven floors of exhibits, participate in the tasting experience, and enjoy a complimentary drink at the Gravity Bar. Allow additional time if you plan to shop or dine at one of the restaurants.

Does the Guinness Storehouse offer nonalcoholic drinks?

Yes. In addition to traditional Guinness, the Gravity Bar offers Guinness 0.0 and soft drinks, making the experience enjoyable for visitors who prefer nonalcoholic beverages.

Where can you eat at the Guinness Storehouse?

We enjoyed dinner at the 1837 Bar & Brasserie, located inside the Guinness Storehouse. The restaurant features dishes incorporating Guinness beer, making it a fitting conclusion to the brewery experience.

Final Pour: Our First Day in Dublin

Travel days are often viewed as the days you simply endure to get from one destination to the next. This one was the complete opposite.

What began with a 5:00 a.m. wake-up call, a scenic ferry ride across the Irish Sea, and our first steps into Ireland turned into one of the most memorable days of our adventure. From relaxing aboard the ferry to learning the craft behind one of the world’s most iconic beers and enjoying dinner inside the Guinness Storehouse itself, it was a day that perfectly blended travel, history, culture, and great food.

Our journey through England and Wales had already taken us from the historic streets of Bath to magnificent medieval castles and the spectacular landscapes of North Wales. Now, with our first day in Dublin behind us, we were looking forward to discovering everything Ireland had to offer.