Passenger FAQs
Hibernia Line connects Ireland to the heart of Europe — 6 days a week from Ringaskiddy to Boulogne-sur-Mer.
No UK transit. No customs hassle.
General Travel
Where does the ferry depart from in Ireland?
All sailings depart from Ringaskiddy Port, Cork.
Where does the ferry arrive in France?
The route operates to Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France.
How often do you sail?
We operate 6 sailings weekly in both directions, all year round.
What time do sailings depart?
Departures are scheduled for late evening from both ports, allowing for easier same-day travel to the port.
Bookings & Travel
Can I travel as a foot passenger?
Yes, foot passengers will be welcome on board soon and will have access to onboard facilities, including cabins and dining. We will announce on our social channels once these fares open for bookings.
Can I bring my car or vehicle?
Yes. We cater for cars, campervans, caravans and motorbikes.
Do I need to book a cabin?
Cabins are available across all sailings and are recommended, particularly for overnight crossings.
Onboard Experience
What facilities are available onboard?
Passengers have access to a restaurant, bar, lounges, cabins and WiFi.
Is WiFi available?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard.
Are there options for families or groups?
Yes, 4-berth cabins are available and suit families or small groups travelling together.
Travel Experience
Why travel direct to France?
A direct sailing means no UK transit, fewer administrative steps, and less time spent driving overall.
Is the service year round?
Yes, sailings operate throughout the year.
Booking & Prices
How much does it cost to travel?
Prices vary depending on travel date, season, sailing time, cabin or seat availability, and vehicle type. Prices can change over time.
Why did my price change when I adjusted my booking?
Changing your sailing may move you to a busier or peak‑season crossing, which can affect the price.
Are infants free to travel?
Yes. Infants under 4 years old travel free but must be included in the booking. A maximum of two infants can be booked online per reservation. Infants must travel in a cabin. Should you wish to include more than 2 infants in your booking, please email our customer support team at customersupport@hibernia-line.com
My booking shows ETS, What is this?
ETS stands for Emissions Trading System.
It is an environmental charge introduced by the EU that applies to ferry and shipping operators. The system requires transport companies to monitor and pay for their carbon emissions.
How much does it cost to travel?
Prices vary depending on travel date, season, sailing time, cabin or seat availability, and vehicle type. Prices can change over time.
Cabins & Seating
Do I need to book a cabin or seat?
Yes. Every passenger must book either a private cabin or a Pullman reclining seat. Sleeping in public areas is not permitted.
What is included in a cabin?
All cabins include private en‑suite facilities (shower and toilet), clean bedding, fresh towels, soap and shower gel, and are for your sole use.
What are Pullman seats?
Pullman seats are reclining seats in a shared lounge. They are a lower‑cost option but are not suitable for infants or children. A Blanket and pillow pack can be purchased onboard.
Vehicles
What vehicles can I bring onboard?
You may travel as a foot passenger or with a car, bicycle, motorcycle, campervan, caravan, or trailer. Vehicle size and type must be selected correctly when booking.
Can I travel as a foot passenger / without a vehicle?
What if I entered the wrong vehicle details?
You can update vehicle details before sailing (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply if your vehicle is larger than booked.
Can I bring an electric vehicle?
Yes. Electric vehicles are welcome on board. There is no distinction made between electric vehicles and conventional fuel vehicles. There are no charging facilities during the crossing.
Can I bring gas cylinders in my campervan?
Yes. A maximum of two 11kg propane cylinders is permitted. Gas must be switched off completely, and fridges cannot be operated during the crossing.
Using any gas appliance below decks is strictly forbidden.
Sailing Times & Check‑In
When do sailings operate?
Sailings operate Monday to Saturday between Ireland and France each evening. Exact departure and arrival times are shown on your booking confirmation or within our reservations portal.
When do your ferries depart from Cork and Boulogne-sur-Mer?
Akka: Departs Cork: Saturdays, Tuesdays & Thursdays Departs Boulogne-sur-Mer: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
St. Patrick: Departs Boulogne-sur-Mer: Saturdays, Tuesdays & Thursdays Departs Cork: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
Sailing schedules are subject to change. In the event of a cancellation due to adverse weather or operational circumstances, departure days may temporarily fall out of sync.
When should I arrive at the port?
Please arrive at least 2 hours before departure. Late arrival may result in a missed sailing. Check-in closes strictly 45 minutes before departure; late arrivals may be denied boarding.
What documents do I need to travel?
You will need your booking confirmation and a valid passport or EU National Identity Card. Passengers must ensure they have the correct passport, visas, and any other required documentation for entry into the destination country, as boarding or entry may be refused otherwise.
Is Wi‑Fi available onboard?
Yes. Wi‑Fi is available for purchase once onboard.
Do you accept cash onboard?
No. All ships operate cashless. Card payments only.
Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
Can I change or cancel my booking?
Yes. Passenger bookings can be cancelled free of charge up to 48 hours before departure. Please go to ‘manage by booking’ on the home page of our website. You will need your booking reference number and booking security code. Should you have trouble managing your booking, please send an email to customersupport@hibernia-line.com with your booking details and telephone number, and one of our team will be in touch.
How long do refunds take?
Refunds are typically processed within 5–7 working days.
Pets & Assistance Dogs
Can I travel with my pet?
Pet bookings (cats & dogs only) are not currently available. Passengers arriving with undeclared pets will not be permitted to board. We will be opening our pet bookings very soon.
Please read our Pet Travel Policy.
Can I travel with a guide or assistance dog?
Yes. Recognised guide and assistance dogs travel free and are permitted in passenger areas, subject to documentation requirements. Please forward accredited documentation at the time of booking to customersupport@hibernia-line.com
Please read our Pet Travel Policy.
Accessibility
Do you offer wheelchair accessible cabins?
Yes. Wheelchair‑accessible cabins are available in limited numbers and should be booked early.
Can a carer travel with me?
Yes. Approved accompanying carers travel free once documentation is submitted at the time of booking and confirmation of intent to travel at least 48 hours before departure to customersupport@hibernia-line.com
Can I travel with medical oxygen?
Passengers may carry a limited number of compressed oxygen cylinders for medical use. A letter from your doctor confirming the requirement must be presented at check-in. Passengers are responsible for ensuring their own cylinders are in good working order. Please declare this requirement at the time of booking by email to customersupport@hibernia-line.com
Onboard Facilities
Can I smoke on board?
All enclosed areas of our ships are strictly non‑smoking. This includes electronic cigarettes and vaping devices.
Smoking/Vaping is only permitted on designated outdoor deck areas. Failure to comply may result in intervention by ship staff.
Can I access my vehicle during the crossing?
Access to the car deck is not permitted once the vessel has departed. Please take everything you need for the crossing with you before leaving your vehicle. Note the number of the access door or nearest lift so you can find your vehicle easily on arrival.
Is there a luggage allowance?
There is no strict luggage allowance for passengers – you may bring as much luggage as you can carry. You must be able to manage your own luggage. Vehicles with luggage stored on the car deck will not be accessible during the crossing, so please ensure you take everything you need with you when leaving your vehicle.
Plan Your Journey
6 sailings each week in each direction
A frequent schedule offering flexibility to plan your crossing around your travel plans
Convenient late‑evening departures
Depart comfortably from both Cork and Boulogne‑sur‑Mer, making the most of your day before travel.
Year‑round crossings
A reliable, all‑season service connecting Ireland and France throughout the year.