Ferries: FAQs

Q: Are children allowed to travel by themselves?

A: No. As a general rule, children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied 16 and 17 year olds may need written authority to travel from their parent or guardian.

For further advice, please contact us.

Q: What is the customs allowance for cigarettes & alcohol?

A: - 3200 cigarettes
- 400 cigarillos
- 200 cigars
- 3 kg of smoking tobacco
- 110 litres of beer
- 10 litres of spirits
- 90 litres of wine
- 20 litres of fortified wine (such as port or sherry)

Please note, this does not apply to Duty Free shopping from either the Channel Islands or the Canary Islands.

Visit the Customs and excise site for more information: www.hmce.gov.uk

Q: Is Duty Free shopping still available?

A: Duty free shopping was abolished within the European Union in 1999. Most ships now provide passengers the opportunity to purchase great value products such as wines, spirits, tobacco, confectionery, gifts and perfume.Please note, on sailings to / from the Channel Islands and the Canary Islands Duty free shopping is still available.

Q: Can I buy my ferry ticket at the port?

A: In most cases yes, however you should note the following:

- All ferry companies charge a same day booking fee.

- You run the risk of not getting a space.

- Offer fares (usually available most of the year) are not applicable so the more expensive brochure fare will apply.

- Most ferry companies now operate a demand led pricing structure which means you have to book early to get the best fares. Making a booking at the port means you are booking as late as possible.

Q: Do I need a passport for domestic travel?

A: No, however some form of valid identification is required.

Q: Do I need a passport for travel from the UK to Ireland?

A: Irish and British citizens do not strictly require a passport to travel between the two countries - some form of identification is however required.

Photo ID, Bank cards or bills for house utilities addressed to you are all acceptable and useful means of identification.

Please note that all other nationalities require passports. Non-EU nationals should check with the British or Irish embassy before travelling as they may also need a visa. Passengers who turn up at our ports without valid documentation may not be allowed to enter either Ireland or Britain.

Q: Do I need an E111 / European Health Insurance Card?

A: All members states of the EU offer healthcare benefits through the public system if visitors become ill or injured while on holiday or temporary stay. To avail of these benefits you will need a European Health Insurance Card - this card replaces the old E111 form and each individual traveller needs their own card.