Stena Line has reintroduced the HSS Stena Explorer to operate on its Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire route, operating between Friday 1 April and Tuesday 13 September to cope with the additional demand over the summer period.

The reintroduction of the HSS Stena Explorer will provide Stena Line with the ability to handle higher volumes of foot passengers as Dun Laoghaire Harbour provides passengers with an adjacent Dart connection straight to Dublin City and the surrounding area.

The vessel which caters for up to 1,500 passengers and 350 cars, boasts the Metropolitan and Barista coffee bar, Stena Plus lounge, free WiFi, free movies and an onboard shop which offers a wide range of gifts, jewellery, spirits and fragrances.

Dermot Cairns, Stena Line’s general manager for travel on the Irish Sea, said, “We look forward to welcoming the HSS Stena Explorer back on the Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire route which will provide customers with even more reason to cross the Irish Sea during the summer months.

“The vessel, which offers excellent onboard facilities, will complement the timetable on Holyhead to Dublin Port route as it offers customers a mid-morning departure from Holyhead and a lunchtime departure from Dun Laoghaire”.

The HSS Stena Explorer will operate one round trip per day with a 10.00 hours sailing from Holyhead and a 13.15 hours sailing from Dun Laoghaire. Prices start from as little as £109 single for a car plus driver and only £25 for additional adults and £15 for children with infants under three years old travelling for free. Customers also have the opportunity to upgrade to Stena Line’s premium fare for an additional £16 which includes advance boarding and disembarkation and entry into the Stena Plus lounge where passengers can avail of complimentary snacks, beverage and newspapers.