About this route
Stena Line is one of the world's largest ferry operators and one of the most pet-progressive. It offers pet-friendly cabins on many routes, with some Irish Sea ships carrying large numbers of dedicated pet cabins. Depending on route, dogs may use pet cabins, kennels, vehicles or dedicated pet lounges. Belfast-Cairnryan Superfast vessels have pet lounges where owners sit with crated pets. Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and ferrets are accepted.
Dog travel details
Pet feeFree on some vehicle routes / around £30 for kennels / pet cabins vary
Dog notesDogs must be booked into the correct pet option for the route. Leads are required and muzzles may be required outside cabins, vehicles or kennels. Maximum pets per booking varies by route, and some lounges or carriers have size limits that suit small and medium dogs better than giant breeds.
BookingPre-book pet cabins or kennels at the time of booking. On routes requiring reservations, dogs without the correct pet booking may be refused. Summer pet cabins sell out quickly.
Pro tipThe Harwich-Hook of Holland overnight route is a serious no-fly alternative from the UK to mainland Europe. For dogs that can settle in a cabin, it avoids both cargo handling and long car-deck separation.
RestrictionsRules vary significantly by route and vessel. Some routes require pet cabins only, while others allow vehicle or kennel travel. Dogs are not allowed in restaurants or general passenger areas.