Ferry from Belfast to Liverpool

When planning a ferry trip to Liverpool from Belfast, you can take advantage of the regular discounts offered to specific traveller categories. Typically, children under 16 are entitled to lower ferry ticket prices, while infants and toddlers up to 4 years old usually travel for free.

The conventional ferries serving the Belfast - Liverpool route are equipped with a range of modern amenities and services for a relaxed journey across the Irish Sea. On board, you will generally find:

• Air-conditioned lounges and deck seating to enjoy the sea view
• Cafés, bars and restaurants serving snacks, drinks and meals
• Shops for the essentials, last-minute purchases and gifts
• Entertainment, including movie lounges, play areas for children and casino games for adults
• Free Wi-Fi hotspot

Cabins and accommodation

On ferries traveling from Belfast to Liverpool, you can book a cabin for 2 or 4 passengers or a bed in a shared cabin for a more comfortable journey. Typically, you have the option between:

• Standard cabins
• Superior cabins (with tea/coffee making facilities)
• Deluxe cabins (with double bed, tea/coffee making facilities and mini fridge)
• Wheelchair-accessible cabins
• Pet-friendly cabins

All cabins feature en suite facilities, towels, bedding and a TV with a free video-on-demand service. Cabin prices normally start from €82.

Most ferries also have reclining seats in the VIP lounge, which have extra legroom.

Luggage

On the ferries of Stena Line from Belfast to Liverpool, there are no restrictions on the weight or number of check-in baggage. However, hand luggage must be no larger than 60x50x40 cm and you must be able to carry on board yourself.

Traveling with pets

Pets are welcome on ferries operating the Belfast - Liverpool route, provided they are added to your booking when you purchase your tickets. On Stena Line ferries, you may keep your pet in your vehicle, but as the crossing takes several hours, it’s recommended to book a kennel space on board or a pet-friendly cabin for their comfort.

Ferries departing from Belfast also feature dedicated pet lounges, where you can stay with your companion during the journey. Smaller pets must remain in a secure carrier, while larger animals must be kept on a lead and wear a muzzle at all times outside the cabin or kennel area.

Remember to bring all required travel and health documents, including your pet’s microchip identification, valid rabies vaccination, and any tickets or pet essentials needed for the duration of the trip.

Important: certain dog breeds are not permitted to travel, as they are banned in the UK and Ireland. These include XL Bullies, Pit Bull Terriers (including American Pit Bull Terrier), Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.

Here are some useful tips for your ferry trip from Belfast to Liverpool:

• The port of Belfast can get busy, especially during the summer months, so it’s recommended to be there at least 45 min before your trip. If you are travelling with a vehicle, plan your arrival at least 1.5 hr ahead of departure.
• The sea can get a bit rough, so if you are sensitive to the waves, talk to your pharmacist or doctor about seasickness medication options.
• For greater privacy and comfort during the ferry trip, especially for overnight crossings, we recommend booking a cabin. Alternatively, there are reclining seats available in the VIP lounge, with extra legroom.
• From Northern Ireland, it is also possible to travel to Scotland on the Belfast - Cairnryan ferry. For all travel options, check out the Belfast ferry schedules.

Where to take the ferry from Belfast to Liverpool

Ferries from Belfast to Liverpool depart from the port of Belfast, which is about 3 km northwest of the city centre. The port is near the motorway network off Junction 1 of the M2 motorway (Fortwilliam roundabout).

You can reach the terminal by car, taxi, or bus, with on-site parking, restrooms, a café, and waiting areas. Nearby, you’ll find Titanic Belfast, the Odyssey Pavilion, and several waterfront hotels and restaurants for a meal before departure.

There are also nearby petrol stations and shop along West Bank Road, which are handy for last-minute purchases when driving to the port.

Which gate do ferries to Liverpool depart from?

The Stena Line ferries to Liverpool (Birkenhead) depart from Victoria Terminal 2 (VT2) in the port of Belfast. You will find signs guiding you to the departure gate, once you enter the port area. The terminal features a check-in desk, café, vending machines, Wi-Fi, and restrooms.

Where does the ferry arrive in Liverpool?

Ferries from Belfast arrive at the Birkenhead (Twelve Quays) terminal, located on the Wirral side of the River Mersey, opposite the centre of Liverpool.

Around the terminal, you’ll find cafés, car rentals, and hotels, as well as Mersey Ferry connections that take you directly across to the city. It’s a 10-min drive to central Liverpool, while the trains and buses take around 30 min.

Yes, of the 2 daily crossings from Belfast, the latest ferry normally sets sail at 22:30 and arrives in Liverpool at 06:30 the next morning.