The Irish Sea separates Great Britain and the island of Ireland. The sea has been a significant trade and communications barrier between the two islands for centuries as there is no fixed crossing across it. In 2013, 7.6 megatons of trade was handled between British and Irish ports, and ferry crossings remain the most important link for heavy goods vehicles. Ferry services have continued to be significant, and 3.6 million passengers use these annually.
The main operators across the Irish Sea are P&O Ferries, Irish Ferries, Stena Line and the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Current
Image East side West side Operator Year opened Year closed NotesArdrossanLarneP&O Irish Sea (until 2001)2001Moved to TroonTroonLarneP&O Ferries (2001-2016)Seacat Scotland (1999-2004)19992016CairnryanBelfastStena Line2011CairnryanLarneP&O Ferries1973StranraerBelfastStena Line (1995-2011) Seacat Scotland (1992-2000)19922011StranraerLarneStena Line18611995HeyshamBelfastStena LineHeyshamWarrenpointSeatruck Ferries1996HeyshamDublinSeatruck FerriesLiverpoolDublinP&O FerriesSeatruck FerriesBirkenheadBelfastStena Line2002MostynDublinP&O Irish Sea20012004HolyheadDublinIrish FerriesStena Line (1995-present)1848HolyheadDún LaoghaireStena Line18482014FishguardRosslareStena LinePembroke DockRosslareIrish FerriesLiverpool Pier HeadDublin/Belfast/DouglasIsle of Man Steam Packet Company
Historic
See also Irish Sea fixed crossing
References Notes
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