- What is Rail & Sail?
- Popular Rail & Sail routes
- Why choose Rail & Sail?
- What to know before you travel
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Looking to avoid airports when travelling between the UK, Ireland or even mainland Europe? Rail & Sail is a convenient and cost-effective way to combine both train and ferry travel into a single, cheaper journey. Whether it’s a city break in Dublin, a family visit in the Isle of Wight, or a cross-Europe adventure, Rail & Sail offers a new, relaxed and scenic alternative.
In this guide, we break down available routes, the perks of using this combined ticket, and how to book your journey.
Photo by Andrew Pasquale, taken from Store Norske Leksikon
What is Rail & Sail?
Rail & Sail is a joint ticketing option that lets you travel by train and ferry using just one ticket. Instead of booking your train and ferry legs separately, Rail & Sail combines them, often at a discounted rate. One of the greatest benefits is that all connections are timed for smooth transfers, and the journey itself becomes part of the adventure!
It’s a popular choice for people travelling to Ireland, the Isle of Man or mainland Europe, as well as environmentally conscious travellers, families or students looking to save, or those simply looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of airports.
Popular Rail & Sail routes
Here are the most-used Rail & Sail options from the UK, with estimated durations and key stops:
London to Dublin (via Holyhead)
- Avanti West Coast train from London Euston to Holyhead (~3h 45m)
- Irish Ferries or Stena Line ferry from Holyhead to Dublin (~3h 15m)
Total journey: approx. 7–8 hours
Average cost: £40–£60 one-way (standard class)
Liverpool to Belfast (via Birkenhead)
- Merseyrail train from Liverpool Lime Street to Birkenhead (~7m)
- Stena Line ferry from Birkenhead to Belfast (~8 hours, overnight options available)
Average cost: £35 (with cabin options)
London or Birmingham to Douglas (Isle of Man)
- Avanti West Coast train from London to Liverpool (~2h 45m)
- The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company ferry from Liverpool to Douglas (~2h 45m)
Prices vary seasonally (peak summer may be higher)
UK to Mainland Europe (Rail & Sail via Harwich)
- Greater Anglia train to Harwich International
- Stena Line ferry from Harwich International to Hook of Holland (~6h 30m)
- NS or SNCB train onward to Amsterdam (~2h 45m) or Rotterdam (~2h)
Average cost: From £49 one-way (includes train and ferry)
Why choose Rail & Sail?
Aside from convenience, there are plenty of benefits to booking a Rail & Sail ticket:
One simple booking
No need to coordinate separate train and ferry schedules—your journey is planned for you.
Lower fares
Rail & Sail tickets are often cheaper than booking rail and ferry separately, and much cheaper than flights, especially last-minute.
Generous luggage allowances
Unlike air travel, most ferry services have no strict luggage limits.
Eco-friendly travel
Train and ferry travel emits significantly less CO₂ than flying, making Rail & Sail a greener choice.
Comfortable journey
Enjoy scenic coastal routes, onboard food options, and fewer security hassles.
Photo by kitmasterbloke
What to know before you travel
- Arrival times: Arrive at ferry terminals at least 30–45 minutes before departure
- Railcard discounts: Many UK railcards are accepted on the train portion of Rail & Sail tickets
- Flexible fares: Some tickets allow changes or cancellations—check fare rules when booking
- Cabins available: On longer or overnight sailings, you can add a private cabin for extra comfort
- Accessibility: Both rail and ferry operators offer wheelchair-friendly facilities and support