Dublin–Liverpool Ferry: What Runs Today

Dublin↔LiverpoolTHE IRISH SEA ROUTE GUIDEExplore the crossing ↗
DUBLIN · LIVERPOOL · BIRKENHEAD

Across the Irish Sea.
Choose the right crossing.

There is a direct freight crossing between Dublin and Birkenhead, but no direct passenger ferry to book. Find the practical passenger alternatives and the right port before you travel.

Find your routeCheck route options

Direct routeCommercial freight
Passenger via WalesDublin → Holyhead
Passenger via NIBelfast → Liverpool
Liverpool terminalBirkenhead
COMPARE PASSENGER CROSSINGS

Find a ferry for the journey that runs

This search covers multiple ferry routes. Dublin–Liverpool is not a direct passenger sailing, so select the correct leg below.

What to select: For a trip starting in Dublin, search Dublin–Holyhead and arrange the onward journey to Liverpool separately. To arrive closer to Liverpool by ferry, first travel to Belfast, then search Belfast–Liverpool (Birkenhead). These are separate routes; the direct Dublin–Birkenhead freight sailing is not a passenger option.

The ferry search covers the sailing only. Check your onward rail or road connection separately.

THE GUIDE

Start with the crossing that fits your trip.

Searches for a Dublin–Liverpool ferry can lead to an old P&O listing, a freight route, or a passenger sailing from Belfast. We separate those options so you can book the journey that actually runs.

01Dublin to Liverpool ferryThe direct service and two passenger alternatives.02Times and route choicesWhere to see live schedules and what to allow for connections.03Without a carA realistic rail-and-ferry journey, step by step.04Dublin ferry portFind the right terminal for your booked sailing.05Liverpool ferry portUnderstand Birkenhead, passenger check-in and freight access.

PORTS & PLACES

Three views around the Irish Sea.

See the places mentioned in this guide, then check your booking for the actual departure and arrival terminals.

Aerial view across Dublin Port docks, cargo cranes and boats
Dublin PortYour Dublin terminal depends on the route and operator named on your booking.
Lighthouse on a rocky island off the Holyhead coast in Wales
Holyhead coastHolyhead is the Wales ferry connection. Continue toward Liverpool by road or rail.
Cruise ship at Liverpool waterfront beside the River Mersey
Liverpool waterfrontThis is central Liverpool. Belfast passenger ferries use Birkenhead across the Mersey.
TWO PORTS, DIFFERENT SERVICES

Know which terminal your ticket means.

Dublin

Passenger departures to Holyhead and the freight services use different check-in arrangements. Follow your operator’s terminal instructions.

Dublin port guide ↗

Birkenhead

“Liverpool” sailings arrive across the Mersey in Birkenhead. Passenger Belfast sailings and direct Dublin freight require different bookings.

Liverpool port guide ↗

Related Irish Sea crossings

Planning a different way across the Irish Sea? Read the Holyhead–Dublin ferry guide for the Wales crossing. If your journey takes you through Northern Ireland and southwest Scotland, see the Larne–Cairnryan ferry guide for that crossing. Choose each route by its actual ports when searching.

BEFORE DEPARTURE

Three checks that save a wrong turn.

  1. Check whether your ferry takes passengers.The direct Dublin–Birkenhead service is dedicated to freight.
  2. Match your ticket to the terminal.Dublin and Birkenhead have several ferry operations.
  3. Allow time between modes.Rail and road connections are separate from the crossing.

Travelling without a vehicle?

See how the Holyhead and Belfast routes compare for a journey between Dublin and Liverpool.

Read the foot passenger guide ↗