About This Route
Stena Line is one of the world's largest ferry operators, and one of the most pet-progressive. They offer pet-friendly cabins on many routes — some with up to 70 dedicated pet cabins per ship on Irish Sea routes. Pets can travel in pet-friendly cabins, kennels, vehicles, or dedicated pet lounges depending on the route. Pet lounges on Belfast–Cairnryan Stena Superfast vessels allow you to sit with your crated pet. Cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets are all accepted.
Cat Travel Details
Pet Fee
Free on some routes (in vehicle) / £30 for kennels / Pet cabin prices vary by route and class
Cat Notes
Cats must be in a secure carrier when in pet lounges and public pet areas. In pet-friendly cabins, cats may be out of the carrier. Maximum 2 pets per booking on most routes, up to 5 on some Baltic routes. Carrier max size on Superfast vessels: 91L × 56W × 62H cm. All pets must be minimum 15 weeks old with microchip, rabies vaccination, and EU Pet Passport or Health Certificate.
Booking
Pre-book pet cabins/kennels at time of booking — limited availability. Pets without reservations will not be accepted on routes requiring cabin bookings. Pet cabins sell out quickly in summer.
Pro Tip
Stena Line's pet-friendly cabins are excellent for cats. The Harwich–Hook of Holland overnight route is a great alternative to flying for relocating from the UK to mainland Europe. For Irish Sea crossings, the pet lounges are a nice option for short crossings where a cabin isn't necessary.
Restrictions
Rules vary significantly by route and vessel — always check the specific ship. On some routes, pets must travel in pet cabins only (no vehicle option). Dogs must be leashed and muzzled outside cabins. Cats must remain in carriers in pet lounges.