FERRY travel from the United Kingdom to the Republic of Ireland and vice-versa has long been a popular route for many passengers.
While travelling by ferry may not be the primary option for many passengers, routes still operate on a regular basis.
So, do you still need a passport to travel between the UK and the Republic of Ireland by ferry?
Read on below for the latest rules on travel regulations when it comes to using ferry crossings.
Do I need a passport to travel to Ireland via ferry from the UK?
Prior to Monday, 28 September, passengers were able to use routes including Dublin to Holyhead and Rosslare to Pembroke without needing to bring their passport.
However, that has now changed, and you must bring your passport, after identification rules were altered by ferry operators.
Previously, anyone travelling on the above routes could use alternative forms of identification, such as driving licences and national identity cards.
Popular operators Irish Ferries and Stena Line have notified customers of the changes following their introduction.
For Irish Ferries routes, the necessity of travelling with a passport applies to its Dublin to Holyhead and Rosslare to Pembroke routes, in both directions.
Meanwhile, Stena Line has stated that all passengers travelling on routes from Dublin, Holyhead, Fishguard or Rosslare would be required to present a valid passport when checking in.
Almost 1.5 million people use the Holyhead to Dublin route each year, meaning it sees around 210,000 lorries and 383,000 cars pass through its port annually.
With more than 210,000 lorries and around 383,000 cars using it every year, Holyhead is the second busiest passenger ferry port to Dover.
Both operators will also accept passport cards, while Irish Ferries has added that anyone travelling who is not a British or Irish citizen and is visiting the UK for up to six months may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).