Stena Line day trips to Ireland
- Pricing and value for money
Summary
An excellent value day trip fare from the Stena Line.
User Review
( votes)The Stena Superfast X is one of three “Superfast” ferries operated by the Stena Line, in the UK. Two sisterships, the Superfast VII and Superfast VIII sail to Belfast whilst the Stena Superfast X sails from Holyhead to Dublin . The crossing time is scheduled at 3 hours and 15 minutes ex Holyhead and 3 hours 30 minutes ex Dublin. The longer crossing time to Wales reflects the reverse manoeuvres the ship has to make when berthing.
The Stena Superfast X looks fresh and modern from the outside, with sleek lines and modern “wings” on her funnel.
Passenger accommodation is on decks 7,8 and 10, with deck 9 reserved for crew use. On board, passengers can enjoy free wi-fi, free cinema and also partake in a meal in the self-service restaurant. A bar towards the bow of deck 8, a childrens play area and the Stena Plus lounge add to the array of facilities on board.
Loading for vehicles was well underway just after 0800 when we arrived at Holyhead port. Foot passengers check in at the terminal and are then taken by bus onto the vehicle decks of the Stena Superfast X, reaching the passenger area by colour keyed staircases. The ship seemed fairly quiet in terms of numbers of passengers, but quite a good load of freight onboard.
Disembarking at Dublin was a similar process. Foot passengers were called down to the vehicle deck, where a bus was waiting to take us to the terminal building.
Departure from Dublin on the 15:10 to Holyhead was slightly delayed due to an inward freight service and then the passing of P&O’s European Endeavour. The Stena Superfast X arrived at Holyhead on time.
Here are a few more pics from the day.
Stena Superfast X lifeboat
Modern looking winglets on the funnel
Unfortunately, the sea was calm
Modern toilets and wash basins
The MV Epsilon and the Stena Superfast X
Irish Ferries – MV Epsilon
High Speed Craft Jonathan Swift.
P&O Ferries sailing to Liverpool
Dublin sunset
Stena Superfast X – day trip specials
The day return was on offer for £5, booked direct with Stena Line. This offer runs from time to time. Keep on eye on the Stena Line day trips website.
Sounds good Russell.
Can I ask please, as a foot passenger, was there time and a bus/taxi service, to allow a visit to Dublin city centre?
Cheers,
Jock.
Stena operate a chartered bus to Dublin centre from outside the Stena terminal, coincides to arrive when ships do.
“Service” buses depart from the Irish Ferries terminal, not sure of the times though.
Arrive Dublin about 1215 (port), return crossing 2045 with the Stena Line. £5 on Tuesday. (Offer)
Thanks Russell. That’s a good few hours in the city.
Can you stay overnight at the Holyhead Ferry Terminal?
Cheers,
Jock.
I don’t think so, but two years ago, a Stena Captain pointed out towards the marine and said motorhomes often go there. Not sure about overnight though.
Thanks for that Russell.
Cheers,
Jock.