Travelling by ferry has many advantages: for a start, you can take your own vehicle with you to Ireland, without having to use a rental car. Nevertheless, the journey from France to Ireland can be long and tiring… The question then arises: should I take a cabin for the duration of the journey?
It generally takes between 15 and 20 hours by sea to reach Ireland (whether you start from Cherbourg or Roscoff). And generally, the trips are made at night for greater convenience.
So it’s only natural that when you make your reservation you should be asked about the conditions under which you’d like to travel… Would you like to take a cabin to rest? Would you prefer to book a seat only and take advantage of the boat’s other services?
To this we would say that it’s all a question of desire, physical condition and, above all, budget. It usually costs around a hundred euros for a cabin, which is far from insignificant…
Nevertheless, booking a cabin is often a good idea. It will give you a good night’s sleep, in a real bed and a real room, away from the noise and bustle of the ferry’s public seating.
What’s more, renting a cabin is a considerable advantage for people who are ill at sea: it’s true that you’re always more comfortable in the privacy of a room when you’re suffering from the swell.
The bravest budget-conscious will probably refuse to take a room for the duration of the trip. You’ll then be able to enjoy the journey in a reserved seat, where you can doze off. (Less comfortable, but can do the trick if you’re not too cosy).
Note that the ferry also offers other services (which vary according to the company), such as a cinema, a bar… etc. In short, another way to pass the time, but one that’s likely to tire you out before you set foot in Ireland…
