If there is one ferry route in the world that faces a lot of trouble due to weather conditions, then this is the one. Storm Darragh has battered the Irish Sea (and this route in particular).
Weather conditions on this route can change rapidly, with high winds and rough seas being the main reasons for schedule disruptions. Before travelling, passengers should always check for live updates from ferry operators and our maps below.
For the latest sailing updates, visit:
Check these sources regularly, especially during winter months when storm activity is more frequent.
The waves on this route
When the waves get ‘red and white’ on this map, be sure to be prepared for sea or motion sickness. If the waves
The wind on Holyhead to Dublin
Average Wind Speeds: Annual average wind speeds in Ireland range from 3 m/s in parts of south Leinster to over 8 m/s in the extreme north. Coastal areas tend to be windier than inland regions, especially in the west.
Storm Conditions Holyhead – Dublin
The majority of storms occur during the winter months, with December, January, and February being particularly storm-prone. For instance, the winter of 2013/2014 was recorded as the stormiest for Ireland and the UK in at least 143 years.
Notable Recent Storms:
- Storm Ophelia (October 2017): Ophelia caused significant damage in Ireland, with winds reaching up to 191 km/h (119 mph) at Fastnet Lighthouse. Wikipedia
- Storm Éowyn (January 2025): This storm brought record-breaking gusts, with Mace Head recording a gust of 183 km/h (114 mph), surpassing the previous record set during Hurricane Debbie in 1961. The Irish Sun+2Wikipedia+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2
5-Day Weather Forecast Dublin and Holyhead
Holyhead Weather Forecast
Dublin Weather Forecast
Other Irish Sea Ferry Routes we Track with on Ferryweather.com:
⛈️ Holyhead Dublin Cancellations and Storm Gossip
How was your experience with stormy weather on this route? Feel free to ask us questions here about ferry company cancellations; we talk with them regularly!
What happens if bad weather cancels this ferry? Do they put you on the next one, or do you have to rebook?