Seamus O'Brien
Chief Executive Officer
With over 25 years in maritime operations, Seamus leads the strategic vision and day-to-day operations of Irish Ferries with passion and precision.
Our Story
About Irish Ferries
For over 40 years, Irish Ferries has been the proud connection between Ireland, Britain, and Europe — built on trust, safety, and an unwavering passion for exceptional sea travel.
Our Story
The Journey Behind Irish Ferries
Irish Ferries was founded with a single, enduring vision: to make sea travel between Ireland and Europe accessible, comfortable, and reliable for every passenger. What began as a modest fleet of two vessels sailing the Irish Sea has grown into one of the most trusted ferry operators in the North Atlantic region.
Through decades of innovation, fleet expansion, and an unwavering commitment to passenger safety, irishferries has become a household name for millions of travellers. Our routes connect Ireland to Holyhead, Pembroke, and Cherbourg — serving families, businesses, and freight operators year-round with pride and professionalism.
1.8M+
Passengers per year
12
Active vessel routes
1972
Year established
98%
On-time departure rate
Our Purpose
Our Mission & Vision
We are driven by a clear purpose — to provide safe, reliable, and enjoyable sea journeys that connect people and communities across Ireland, Britain, and Europe.
Our Mission
To connect Ireland to the world through safe, reliable, and sustainable ferry services that make every voyage memorable.
Our Vision
To be Europe's most trusted and passenger-focused ferry operator, leading the way in innovation and environmental responsibility.
Sustainability
Committed to reducing our carbon footprint through LNG-powered vessels, port-side energy efficiency, and green travel initiatives.
Community
Deeply invested in the Irish maritime community — supporting local ports, crews, and coastal economies for over four decades.
What Drives Us
Our Core Values
Every decision we make — from the design of our vessels to the training of our crew — is guided by a set of core values that have defined Irish Ferries since day one.
Safety First
Passenger and crew safety is our absolute priority. We maintain the highest maritime safety standards across every vessel and route we operate.
Excellence
From onboard dining to punctual departures, we pursue excellence in every aspect of the passenger experience — no compromise.
Integrity
Transparent pricing, honest communication, and accountability at every level of our organisation. We do what we say we will do.
Innovation
Continuously investing in modern fleet technology, digital booking systems, and onboard amenities to stay ahead of passenger expectations.
Sustainability
Actively reducing emissions and environmental impact — because protecting Ireland's seas is as important as sailing them.
Passenger Focus
Every policy, process, and improvement we make starts with one question: how does this make the journey better for our passengers?
Our Journey
History & Milestones
From our founding in 1972 to today, every decade has brought new vessels, new routes, and new milestones in Irish maritime history.
1972
Company Founded
Irish Ferries was established with its first vessel, the MV Leinster, launching the iconic Dublin–Holyhead route and serving its inaugural passengers.
1979
Fleet Expansion
A second vessel joined our fleet, enabling year-round service and dramatically increasing passenger capacity across the Irish Sea routes.
1988
Rosslare–Pembroke Route Opens
Expanding southward, we launched the Rosslare to Pembroke Dock route, opening a vital new corridor between Ireland and Wales for passengers and freight.
1997
European Routes Launched
Irish Ferries expanded to continental Europe, launching direct services from Rosslare to Cherbourg, France — connecting Ireland to mainland Europe for the first time.
2006
Modern Superferry Introduced
The MV Ulysses — one of the world's largest car ferries — entered service, featuring premium cabins, restaurants, and capacity for 2,000 passengers.
2015
Digital Booking Platform
Launched a fully redesigned online booking system, making it easier than ever for passengers to plan, book, and manage their Irish Ferries journeys.
2022
Green Fleet Initiative
Introduced our first LNG-capable vessel as part of a major sustainability programme, reducing CO₂ emissions per voyage by up to 30% versus conventional fuel.
2024
1.8 Million Passengers Milestone
Irish Ferries celebrated carrying over 1.8 million passengers annually — a record-breaking year that reflects our growth and continued passenger trust.
The People Behind Irish Ferries
Meet Our Leadership Team
Our leadership team brings decades of maritime expertise, operational excellence, and a shared commitment to the Irish Ferries mission.
Aoife Murphy
Chief Operations Officer
Aoife oversees all fleet operations, port logistics, and crew training — ensuring every Irish Ferries departure meets our renowned safety and punctuality standards.
Declan Walsh
Head of Passenger Experience
Declan leads the team responsible for onboard services, accessibility standards, and customer satisfaction — putting passengers at the heart of everything we do.
Niamh Fitzgerald
Director of Sustainability
Niamh spearheads Irish Ferries' environmental strategy — from green fleet investment to carbon offsetting programmes protecting Ireland's coastal ecosystems.
Want to be part of the Irish Ferries team?
Get In Touch
Start Your Journey
Ready to Sail with
Ready to Sail with
Irish Ferries?
Join over 1.8 million passengers who trust Irish Ferries each year. Explore our routes and get started planning your next crossing today.