Ferries Boulogne-sur-Mer - Cork

Yes, you can take a ferry directly from Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France to Cork in Ireland. The ferry arrives in Ringaskiddy, the ferry port in the Cork area. The big advantage of this route is that you can reach Ireland without having to go through the United Kingdom.

The ferry service from Boulogne-sur-Mer to Cork is currently operated by Hibernia Line.

The “St. Patrick” and “MV Akka” Ferries operate on this route. Which ship you’ll be traveling on depends on the schedule and the day of your trip. You’ll find the exact details when you book and in your travel confirmation.

The fare for the ferry route from Boulogne-sur-Mer to Cork depends on various factors and is often based on the ferry’s occupancy rate, the time of travel, whether you’re traveling with or without a vehicle, and other factors.

You can check the current price from our trip search tool.

You must check in at the port at least 45 minutes before departure. However, you should plan a little more time for check-in.

That can happen, of course. However, the Ferry will not wait for you, as the timetable must be adhered to.

As soon as you realize you won’t make it in time for check-in at the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer or Cork, you should contact the shipping company by phone. You’ll find the phone number on your booking confirmation.

The Boulogne-sur-Mer–Cork ferry service is currently offered up to 6 times a week.

The travel time (duration of the crossing) is currently 21 hours and 30 minutes.

Yes, that’s no problem. Dogs and smaller pets, such as cats, can travel on the Ferry just like any other passenger. You must declare your pet when booking and comply with Ireland’s entry requirements. For dogs, cats, and ferrets, it’s especially important to have a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and either an EU pet passport or an appropriate health certificate.

Yes, the route is planned as a year-round ferry service. You can therefore use the Ferry in the fall, winter, and spring as well. However, individual departures may be adjusted due to weather conditions, maintenance work, or operational changes.

Yes, you can travel by car. This route is particularly appealing to travelers who want to explore Ireland in their own vehicle. When booking, please be sure to provide the correct length, height, and any attachments for your vehicle.

Yes, RVs and campers can be taken on the Ferry. When booking, it’s important to provide the correct vehicle dimensions, especially the length and height. If you have propane tanks on board, you must follow the safety rules.

Yes, you can also travel with a trailer or caravan. Please specify this when booking so that the space on board can be properly planned. Changes made after booking may incur additional costs or depend on availability.

Yes, motorcycles are allowed on this route. Depending on the booking category, motorcycles with sidecars may also be permitted. Therefore, be sure to check carefully which vehicle type you select when booking.

Yes, walk-on passengers can travel on this route. During the crossing, you’ll have access to the passenger areas, cabins, and dining options. However, be sure to plan your arrival and onward travel carefully, as the ports are located outside the city center.

Every passenger must have either a cabin or a Pullman seat. On this long overnight crossing, a cabin is especially convenient because you can sleep, shower, and store your personal belongings in a private space. Sleeping in public areas is not permitted.

A variety of cabins are available for solo travelers, couples, and families. All cabins have their own bathroom with a shower and toilet. Cabin amenities include bed linens, towels, soap, and shower gel.

Yes, the route is also suitable for families. Cabins are especially convenient, since children can get a better night’s sleep there during the overnight crossing. When booking, you should carefully check which cabin and booking rules apply to babies and toddlers.

Children under the age of four travel for free, but must be listed at the time of booking. Infants must travel in a cabin. If there are multiple infants, additional booking steps may be required, or you may need to contact customer service.

Yes, there are pet-friendly cabins. These are a good option if you’re traveling with a dog and want to make the long crossing as stress-free as possible. Since the number of these cabins may be limited, you should book early.

Yes, certified service dogs and guide dogs are permitted in passenger areas, provided the necessary documentation is available. Therefore, please submit the documents well in advance and clarify the details before your trip.

You’ll need your booking confirmation and valid travel documents. For EU citizens, a valid ID card or passport is required. Since Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, you should expect border and ID checks.

As an EU citizen, you can travel to Ireland with a valid ID card or passport. Different rules may apply to travelers from countries outside the EU, such as passport and visa requirements. Be sure to check this before booking if you are not traveling with an EU document.

No, once the ship has set sail, you usually won’t have access to the vehicle deck. So be sure to pack everything you’ll need for the night into a separate bag beforehand. This includes travel documents, medications, chargers, clothing, toiletries, snacks, and anything you’ll need for children or pets.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available on board. There is a fee for passengers to use it, and it must be booked on board. However, don’t rely solely on the connection for important matters, as the internet at sea may be slower or may go down at times.

No, the ship uses a cashless payment system. Be sure to bring a suitable card with you. This is especially important if you want to purchase food, drinks, Wi-Fi, or other services during the crossing.

Yes, there are various dining options on board, including restaurants and bars. The options and hours of operation may vary depending on the ship and departure. For a long crossing, however, it’s a good idea to have water and some small snacks on hand.

Smoking is not permitted in enclosed areas. This also applies to e-cigarettes and vapes. Smoking is only permitted in the designated outdoor areas.

Yes, electric cars can be brought on board. However, there are no charging stations available during the crossing. Therefore, be sure to fully charge your vehicle before boarding and plan your onward journey from Cork accordingly.

Yes, you may bring gas cylinders on board in limited quantities. However, the gas supply must be completely turned off during the crossing. No gas appliances may be used below deck, and refrigerators may not be powered by gas while the ship is underway.

Unlike on an airplane, there is no traditional, strict baggage limit for passengers. However, you must be able to carry and manage your own luggage. Anything left in the vehicle will be inaccessible during the crossing.

Yes, this is especially convenient if you want to drive your own car to Ireland from Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, or northeastern France. Boulogne-sur-Mer is conveniently located in northern France and saves you the detour through the United Kingdom.

If you travel directly from France to Ireland, you’ll avoid transiting through the United Kingdom. This can simplify your travel plans, since no additional Ferry or tunnel crossing is required between continental Europe and the United Kingdom.

You’ll arrive in Ringaskiddy in the Cork area. From there, you can easily explore the south and southwest of Ireland by car. This route is therefore a good choice if you want to visit Cork, Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way, or the south of Ireland.

Departure takes place in the port area of Boulogne-sur-Mer or Le Portel. For specific directions, please refer to the information in your booking confirmation, as the access routes to the check-in area at the port facilities may be clearly specified.

Pack everything you’ll need to take with you when you leave the car: identification, booking documents, medications, chargers, sleeping gear, toiletries, a change of clothes, headphones, snacks, water, and items for children or pets. Since you won’t be able to return to the car during the trip, make sure this bag is fully packed.

Plan the rest of your trip realistically. Although you’ll be more rested after an overnight crossing than after a drive alone, you’ll need time to clear customs, disembark, and get your bearings at the port. For families, RV travelers, and travelers with dogs, a short first leg of the trip is often more relaxing.

If you want to travel around Ireland in your own car, RV, or on a motorcycle—or if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage—the Ferry can be the much more practical option. You’ll avoid having to arrange a rental car, deal with luggage limits, and arrange additional transfers. For short trips without a vehicle, however, a flight is often the faster option.

Plan your trip so that you don’t arrive just before check-in closes. From Germany, the route usually goes through Belgium or northern France. Since the Ferry ride is long, it’s a good idea to take your time and allow plenty of buffer time, or to spend the night in northern France.

If possible, choose a cabin, eat light meals, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol before and during the crossing. You should discuss medications for motion sickness with your doctor or pharmacist well in advance of departure. On a long overnight voyage, many travelers find it helpful to maintain a regular sleep schedule.