By Boat & Ferry in Dublin

Irish Ferries runs a regular high-speed car and passenger service into Dublin port from Holyhead in Wales. The crossing takes 1 hour and 50 minutes on the faster Dublin Swift and 3 hours and 15 minutes on the huge Ulysses. Stena Line has services to both Dublin and nearby Dun Laoghaire port from Holyhead (3½ hours) and a high-speed service, known as "HSS," which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Prices and departure times vary according to season, so call to confirm. In summer, reservations are strongly recommended; book online or through a travel agent. Dozens of taxis wait to take you into town from both ports, or you can take DART or a bus to the city center.

Boat & Ferry Lines

Irish Ferries (Merrion Row, Southside. 01/661-0511. www.irishferries.com). Stena Line (Ferryport, Dun Laoghaire, South County Dublin. 01/204-7777. www.stenaline.ie).