Ferry to the Netherlands from Ireland
Travelling from Ireland to the Netherlands
If you’re looking for a ferry from Ireland to the Netherlands, there are no direct routes across the Irish Sea and North Sea. However, you can travel via France and continue to the Netherlands by public transport or car.
Ferries from Ireland to France
From Ireland, you can take a ferry to Cherbourg, Dunkirk, or Roscoff.
- Rosslare to Dunkirk: The closest option to the Netherlands, offering the shortest onward journey.
- Rosslare or Dublin to Cherbourg: Convenient for connecting onward to the Netherlands.
- Cork to Roscoff: This route is less practical if your final destination is the Netherlands.
Route Overview
The ferry route map provides a clear view of the various ways to travel from Ireland to the Netherlands via France. You can choose ferries departing from Dublin, Cork, or Rosslare, depending on your location and preferences.
By combining ferry travel with an onward journey through France, you can reach the Netherlands efficiently and explore multiple destinations along the way.
Map: Ferries to the Netherlands from Ireland.
About these crossings
Ferry to the Netherlands from Ireland:
Travelling by ferry is a fantastic way to reach the European continent. While there are no direct ferries from Ireland to the Netherlands, the most logical option is to sail to France first and then continue northwards to the Netherlands.
Recommended Routes to the Netherlands
Here are the main ferry routes to France, ranked by convenience for onward travel to the Netherlands:
Rosslare to Dunkirk:
- The best option for reaching the Netherlands.
- Dunkirk is in northern France, only a 3-hour drive from Dutch cities like Utrecht, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam.
- Operated by DFDS, the ferry takes approximately 24 hours.
- Rosslare to Cherbourg
- From Rosslare you can either sail with Brittany Ferries or Stena Line to Cherbourg. From Cherbourg it's about a 6 hour drive to the Netherlands.
- Dublin to Cherbourg:
- A popular choice with good onward connections to the Netherlands, leaving directly from Dublin.
- Cork to Roscoff:
- Less ideal for reaching the Netherlands due to its (relative) southwestern location in France.
What route should you choose?
The Cherbourg to Rosslare ferry is a convenient and efficient option for travellers between France and Ireland. With a shorter crossing time than many alternatives, it’s ideal for those wanting to minimise travel hours.
Cherbourg’s location makes it easily accessible for travellers to northern France, while Rosslare’s position in southeastern Ireland reduces driving time for onward journeys. This route is popular with those travelling with vehicles, offering reliable service from operators like Brittany Ferries and Stena Line. It’s also a cost-effective option, providing a smooth and hassle-free connection for families and drivers alike.
The Rosslare–Dunkirk ferry stands out for its comfort and convenience. It reduces driving distance and avoids the heavy traffic often encountered further south. This makes it the most efficient and stress-free option for travellers heading to the Netherlands.
Whether you're visiting Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, this route ensures a smooth journey with minimal delays. Start planning your trip today!
Alternative: Dublin–Cherbourg & Cork–Roscoff
Two alternative routes are the Dublin–Cherbourg and Cork–Roscoff ferries. These options involve less time on the ferry but more time on the road.
- Cherbourg to Utrecht: An 8-hour drive.
- Roscoff to Utrecht: A 10.5-hour drive.
These routes may suit those prioritising shorter sea crossings or with plans to explore France along the way.
Alternative Route via the UK to the Netherlands
Another option is to travel via the UK to the Netherlands by combining the Dublin–Holyhead ferry with the Hull–Rotterdam ferry to reach the Netherlands.
- Step 1: Take the ferry from Dublin to Holyhead, arriving in Wales.
- Step 2: Drive across the UK from Holyhead to Hull, approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour drive.
- Step 3: Board the Hull–Rotterdam ferry, a comfortable overnight crossing to the Netherlands.
This route is ideal for those looking to split the journey, enjoy a scenic drive through the UK, and take advantage of the Hull–Rotterdam ferry’s overnight amenities for a relaxed arrival in the Netherlands. (Or Harwich – Hook of Holland)
On board
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- Ferries from the UK to the Netherlands: 3 direct crossings, 2 via France. From north to south: Newcastle to Amsterdam, Hull to Rotterdam, Harwich to Hoek van Holland. Via France: Dover-Dunkirk and Dover-Calais.
Prices and availability for this crossing.
What is the sailing schedule and the best alternative?
To check the sailing schedule and timetable for this crossing, and to find the best alternative, simply fill in the booking module for ferries to the Netherlands from Ireland. This tool will provide up-to-date options, times, and routes to suit your travel needs.
Useful for travellers to the Netherlands
Tips for ferry travellers
You can only get to Ireland indirectly as I can read, there was rumor of a new ferry that would go from Rosslare to Zeebrugge, is there any info on that one? That would be a nice one.
So far there is no update on this connection.
Is there still no direct ferry to The Netherlands or Belgium?
Hi Sellie,
No still no direct connection. There are some good alternatives though. The crossing from Rosslare to Dunkirk (really close to Belgium) or Dublin – Cherbourg are nice as well. (Stena Line & Irish Ferries). Hope this helps.
Best regards,