The sea passage
The distance from Rosslare Europort to Fishguard Harbour is 54 nautical miles and following is an account of the key points of reference to be seen during the passage.
Rosslare Pier
The Stena Europe normally uses berth 3 at Rosslare Europort which is linked to the terminal building by an elevated covered walkway.
After easing out from the berth the ship rounds the pier and sets a south-easterly course.
The pier lighthouse (red) dates from 1902. Further info on the lighthouse may be found here (link to NIAH website).
There was a railway station on the pier until 1989. Rolling stock was stabled on the pier until 2008 (the tracks are no longer in situ though Milepost 114 1/4 can be seen against the pier wall).
Rosslare Harbour gradually recedes. The song "The Lights of Rosslare Harbour" comes to mind.
After easing out from the berth the ship rounds the pier and sets a south-easterly course.
The pier lighthouse (red) dates from 1902. Further info on the lighthouse may be found here (link to NIAH website).
There was a railway station on the pier until 1989. Rolling stock was stabled on the pier until 2008 (the tracks are no longer in situ though Milepost 114 1/4 can be seen against the pier wall).
Rosslare Harbour gradually recedes. The song "The Lights of Rosslare Harbour" comes to mind.
Tuskar Rock
Tuskar Rock lighthouse is situated around seven miles off the County Wexford coast. It warns of treacherous rocks. It dates from 1815 and was automated in 1993.
We pass some distance to the north of it whereas the ships on passage between Rosslare and France pass to the west of it.
The lighthouse is in the charge of the Commissioners of Irish Lights. The lighthouse is painted white and throughout its history has always been this colour.
At sea!
There's nothing like sea air and the "away from it all" ambiance of a sea journey.
R-e-l-a-x-a-t-i-o-n...
The seagull in the centre foreground of the photo evidently prefers to sail across rather than fly!
Spot birds and creatures galore!
A display on the ship shows all the different birds and sea creatures that one may possibly spot during the course of a journey.
Keep an eye out for dolphins mid channel.
Strumble Head / Pencaer
Strumble Head is a few miles from Fishguard. One can go there by bus from Fishguard. The lighthouse is actually on an islet, St. Michael's Island, and is open to the public occasionally.
Strumble Head Lighthouse dates from 1908 was automated in 1980. It is in the charge of Trinity House.
The Northern Breakwater
Pictured is Fishguard's Northern Breakwater (there is also an Eastern Breakwater).
Almost there!
When Fishguard Harbour was constructed rock had to be blasted away from the cliff to create a "platform" on which to build the harbour and associated railway facilities.
Alongside at Fishguard Harbour. Croeso i Gymru! (Welcome to Wales!)
This view shows the foot passenger gangway leading to the terminal building (in which the railway station is located).
The onward journey / y rheilffordd i Gaerdydd, Bryste a Llundain (railway to Cardiff, Bristol & London)
View from the ship of the railway line snaking out of the port.