Em(bark) on a pet adventure

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Pet Travel on Irish Ferries – Ferry Travel with Dogs & Pets Made Easy

Travelling with your pet has never been easier. With Irish Ferries’ pet-friendly ferry services, you can bring your dog or pet across Ireland, the UK, and France comfortably and stress-free.

From pet-friendly cabins and onboard kennels to dedicated pet dens and outdoor decks, we offer flexible options for every journey.

→ Add your pet at booking to guarantee availability

Pet Travel Options on Irish Ferries

Choose the best way for your pet to travel depending on your route and comfort preferences.

  • Pet Den (Bring your Pet onboard)
  • Pet-Friendly Cabins (Private Comfort)
  • Onboard Pet Kennels (Secure Travel Option)
  • Travelling with Pets in Your Vehicle

Available on:

  • Oscar Wilde (Dover–Calais)
  • Isle of Inishmore (Dover–Calais)
  • Isle of Innisfree (Rosslare–Pembroke)
  • James Joyce & Ulysses (Dublin–Holyhead)

Why choose a Pet Den?

  • Stay close to your pet during the journey
  • Comfortable indoor environment
  • Access to a dedicated outdoor pet walkway
  • Ideal for reducing stress and anxiety

Available on:

  • James Joyce (Dublin–Holyhead)
  • Isle of Inisheer (Dublin–Cherbourg)

Benefits:

  • Travel together in a private cabin
  • Quiet and secure space
  • Ideal for longer crossings

→Best option for a relaxed pet travel experience

Available on selected routes and vessels.

Why choose onboard kennels?

  • Safe, secure and ventilated spaces
  • Designed specifically for animal welfare
  • Ideal if you prefer your pet to have a dedicated space
  • Better for longer crossings

Tips for kennel use:

  • Bring familiar bedding, toys, or blankets
  • Ensure you have a supply of water and food
  • Ireland – France route: Visit your pet during the pet visit slots

→Best for: pets used to kennel environments or when cabins or Pet Dens are unavailable

On certain routes (Irish Sea, Dover-Calais), pets may remain in your vehicle.

Important:

  • Ensure proper ventilation
  • Leave fresh water available
  • Follow all safety guidance

→A practical option for short crossings in familiar surroundings for your pet

Dogtor Bobby

Veterinarian Dr Bobby Ortiz shares key tips to ensure a smooth journey:

Before Travel

  • Book a vet health check and ensure vaccinations up to date
  • Confirm your pet is fit for travel
  • Help your pet get used to carriers or crates in advance

During Travel

  • Avoid heat → travel early morning or evening
  • Bring: Water, Food/treats, Toys and Bedding
  • Keep your pet calm and comfortable

Why Choose Irish Ferries for Pet Travel?

  • Dedicated pet-friendly facilities onboard
  • Multiple travel options (Pet Dens, Pet cabins, Kennels)
  • Designed for comfort and safety
  • Expert-backed pet travel guidance

Book Your Pet-Friendly Ferry Today

Don’t leave your best travel companion behind.

  • Add your pet when booking to secure your spot
  • Choose from Pet Den, Kennels, Pet in Vehicle or Pet cabins
  • Travel stress-free with Irish Ferries

Pet Travel Requirements (Ireland, UK & France)

Make sure your pet meets all legal requirements before travelling:

Required Documents

  • Pet passport or Animal Health Certificate
  • Microchip
  • Rabies vaccination
  • Other route specific requirements (e.g. Tapeworm treatment to enter Ireland)

→Requirements vary by route - always check before travel

→Check the full details here

FAQs – Travelling with Pets on Ferries

Can I bring my dog on an Irish ferry?

Yes. Irish Ferries allows dogs and pets on all major routes, with options including kennels, on-board Pet Dens, pet cabins, or pets in vehicles.

What is the best option for travelling with a dog on a ferry?

  • Short journeys → onboard in Pet Den or pet in vehicle
  • Long journeys → Dedicated pet kennels or pet-friendly cabin

Do I need a pet passport for ferry travel?

Yes. Pets travelling between Ireland, the UK and France require valid travel documents including vaccination records.

Can I stay with my dog during the ferry crossing?

Yes, on many routes, you can stay with your dog if you have booked the Pet Den or a pet-friendly cabin.

On Ireland France, you have the option of several visits to the Pet Kennels during the crossing.

Are dogs allowed on deck?

Yes, if you have booked the Pet Den, dogs are allowed in the designated outdoor pet areas but must remain on a lead.