Connecting Ireland
Since 1973
Irish Ferries is Ireland's leading ferry service, linking the island of Ireland to the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. For over five decades, we have been a trusted name in maritime travel — proudly operating from Rosslare Europort, Co. Wexford. Our mission is simple: to deliver safe, comfortable, and reliable crossings for every passenger and every journey.
A Legacy Built on the Irish Sea
Irish Ferries was founded in 1973 with a clear purpose: to give Ireland a world-class sea link to Britain and Europe. Starting with a single route from Rosslare to Pembroke, we steadily grew into one of the most recognised ferry operators on the North Atlantic edge.
Over the following decades, we expanded routes, upgraded our fleet, and set new standards for passenger comfort. The introduction of our high-speed vessels in the 1990s cut crossing times dramatically, while our modern cruiseferry fleet of the 2000s brought hotel-quality amenities to the Irish Sea.
Today, irishferries operates a diverse fleet serving millions of passengers and commercial freight customers annually. We remain headquartered at Rosslare Europort — proud to be a cornerstone of Irish connectivity and trade.
- Operating routes from Ireland to the UK (Pembroke, Holyhead) and France (Cherbourg, Le Havre)
- Award-winning passenger experience recognised across the European ferry industry
- Committed to sustainability, with a clear pathway to lower-emission ferry operations
- Millions of passengers and freight units safely transported every year
Our Mission & Vision
Everything we do at Irish Ferries is guided by three core commitments — to our passengers, our people, and the planet.
Our Mission
To connect the people of Ireland with the world through safe, reliable, and comfortable sea travel — bridging cultures and powering trade between Ireland, the United Kingdom, and mainland Europe.
Our Vision
To be the most trusted and forward-thinking ferry operator in the North Atlantic — setting new benchmarks for passenger experience, environmental responsibility, and operational excellence.
Sustainability Pledge
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint through cleaner fuels, energy-efficient vessels, and responsible maritime practices — protecting the oceans and coastlines that are at the heart of our business.
Our Core Values
At Irish Ferries, our values are not just words on a wall — they shape every decision, every route, and every passenger interaction.
Safety First
The safety of every passenger, crew member, and cargo unit is our absolute, non-negotiable priority across every voyage and vessel we operate.
Reliability
We understand that our passengers and freight customers depend on us. That is why punctuality, consistency, and dependability are embedded in our operations.
Excellence in Service
From on-board dining to customer support, we hold ourselves to the highest standards — because every crossing should feel exceptional.
Community & Connection
We are proud to be a lifeline between communities — supporting Irish tourism, trade, and families who rely on our routes to stay connected.
History & Milestones
Over five decades of maritime history — from a single route on the Irish Sea to a modern European ferry network.
Founded at Rosslare
Irish Ferries is established, launching its inaugural passenger and freight service from Rosslare Europort to Pembroke Dock in Wales — marking the beginning of a new era in Irish maritime travel.
Dublin Port Expansion
We expand operations to Dublin Port, opening the high-frequency Holyhead route and dramatically increasing capacity for both passengers and freight across the Irish Sea.
High-Speed Crossings Launched
Introduction of fast craft vessels cuts crossing times to under two hours, transforming the passenger experience and opening ferry travel to a whole new generation of Irish travellers.
France Routes Open
Irish Ferries launches direct sailings from Rosslare to Cherbourg and Roscoff, establishing a vital direct link between Ireland and mainland Europe and boosting Irish tourism and trade.
Cruiseferry Fleet Debut
Our flagship cruiseferries enter service, delivering hotel-standard cabins, premium dining, and entertainment facilities — setting a new benchmark for overnight ferry travel.
W.B. Yeats & Isle of Inishmore
Two state-of-the-art vessels join our fleet, named in honour of Irish heritage, featuring modern environmental systems, enhanced passenger amenities, and expanded freight capacity.
Ireland's Premier Ferry Operator
Irish Ferries continues to lead the way — carrying over 4 million passengers annually, operating 6 routes across the Irish Sea and English Channel, and investing in the cleaner, greener ferries of tomorrow.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Our senior leadership brings together decades of maritime, commercial, and operational expertise — united by a shared commitment to exceptional service.
Seán Murphy
Chief Executive Officer
With over 25 years in maritime operations and executive leadership, Seán drives the strategic direction and operational excellence of Irish Ferries.
Aoife Brennan
Chief Operations Officer
Aoife oversees the safe and efficient running of all Irish Ferries routes, vessels, and port operations — ensuring every crossing meets our exacting standards.
Conor Fitzpatrick
Head of Customer Experience
Conor leads all passenger-facing teams and services, shaping the on-board experience that has made Irish Ferries a multi-award-winning operator.
Niamh O'Sullivan
Director of Sustainability
Niamh drives Irish Ferries' commitment to environmental responsibility — leading our green fleet programme and sustainable maritime initiatives for the decade ahead.