The UK is an island, which can make it tricky to leave when you’re looking to go abroad. Flying is of course an option, but with increased waiting times and risks of delay at UK airports, some passengers are seeking alternatives. The Channel Tunnel is another option, but if you’re wanting a fun and relaxing start to your trip, why not board a ferry? It’s possible to take ferries from several destinations around the UK, including Holyhead in Wales, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Poole, and Newcastle. There are options in terms of your destination, too, so read on to discover some of the best ferry trips from the UK.
Plymouth To Santander
You board at Plymouth, a city in the south-west of the UK, knowing that you won’t disembark for a full 24 hours. This trip takes you right through the Bay of Biscay, as you head past the French mainland, towards the northern coast of Spain. Whilst this may sound like a long time to be on board, it does present incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities. From the deck of the boat, species including fin whales, pilot whales, sperm whales, and even blue whales are regularly spotted. The excitement of seeing one of these magnificent cetaceans will make the time on board pass really fast.
Newcastle To Amsterdam
Sail across the North Sea, towards a city brimming with culture, nightlife, and fun. This ferry crossing is one of the cheapest available and it takes place overnight, so you can fall asleep in the UK and wake up in the Netherlands. Once in Amsterdam, make sure you check out some of the local cuisine on offer, including Dutch waffles, pancakes, and apple cake. There are plenty of museums, but if nightlife is more your thing, the music venues and clubs in Amsterdam are world-famous.
Holyhead to Dublin
The crossing over the Irish Sea can be a little choppy, but you are also in with a good chance of seeing some marine life such as dolphins or whales. This crossing is a swift one, coming in at less than three hours, so you can spend plenty of time in the Irish capital, soaking up the culture and scene. Don’t forget to visit one of Dublin’s many pubs, where you will receive a warm welcome, plenty of beer, and some of the best pub food in the world.
Taking a boat to your holiday destination is an experience in itself. Feeling the salt spray in your hair, and smelling the tang of the sea, is guaranteed to get you excited about wherever you’re going, so consider booking your ferry trip today.