By
Justin Merrigan |
Irish Ferries welcomed James Joyce as a permanent addition to its fleet in May 2025, reinforcing the company’s commitment to growing capacity and improving the passenger experience across routes linking Ireland, Britain and France.
The vessel, formerly named Star 1, was initially chartered from Tallink Hansaway in April 2023. One year later, Irish Ferries decided to purchase it outright. “James Joyce became available for sale earlier this year and we knew a permanent acquisition was the right move,” says Andrew Sheen, the company’s managing director. “Our aim is always to offer our customers the very best in comfort, speed and onboard amenities, and this vessel does exactly that, while also allowing us to expand our route capacity.”
Operating on the busy Dublin-Holyhead corridor, James Joyce is now the largest and fastest passenger cruise ferry on the Irish Sea. It carries over 2,000 passengers and provides 2,380 lane metres for vehicles and freight. “The vessel offers a perfect blend of performance and premium comfort,” says Sheen. “There are modern interiors, a spacious shopping area, a Club Class lounge, restaurants, a bar, freight driver facilities, family amenities like a children’s play area, and new pet lounges.”
While fleet expansion remains central to Irish Ferries’ strategy, operational flexibility is equally vital. When asked whether a third vessel might return to the Dover-Calais service between England and France, Sheen remains pragmatic. “Dover-Calais remains an essential route for us,” he says. “We’re offering up to 20 sailings daily with a schedule that’s working well, including a space charter arrangement for freight that allows for a ‘turn up and go’ service. We’ll continue to adapt in line with customer needs.”
James Joyce, which carries over 2,000 passengers, is the largest and fastest passenger cruise ferry on the Irish Sea
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Irish Ferries’ strategy. One notable recent development was the introduction of hydrotreated vegetable oil fuel on fast ferry Dublin Swift. “It’s a significant step in our broader environmental strategy and forms part of our involvement in the Green Corridor initiative, which is exploring the viability of a zero-emission route between Dublin and Holyhead,” says Sheen.
In parallel, the company has implemented long-term measures to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. “We’ve invested in technologies like low-resistance anti-fouling paints,” explains Sheen. “On Ulysses we’ve used a silicone low-friction coating that reduces drag and fuel consumption. Across the fleet, we’ve upgraded engines and propulsion systems – from re-blading propellers to enhancing turbochargers – and we track real-time performance through our Green Voyage programme.”
These efforts are supported by wider environmental initiatives. “Our sustainability focus goes beyond fuel efficiency,” adds Sheen. “We’re a founding member of The Ocean Project, which studies navigational safety and its impact on marine life. We’ve introduced food waste systems, cut back on plastic use onboard and adopted sustainable uniforms for crew.”
Irish Ferries has also invested in enhancing the travel experience for pet owners. In 2025, it launched new Pet Den lounges on several ships, including Isle of Innisfree, James Joyce and Ulysses on the Irish Sea, and Isle of Inishmore and Oscar Wilde which operate on the route between Dover and Calais.
“These lounges have been rolled out on the Ireland-UK and UK-France routes in recent weeks, and the response has been fantastic,” says Sheen. “Pets are family, and we wanted to create an inclusive, comfortable space for them too.”
The complimentary lounges feature leash hooks and water dispensers for pets, as well as access to refreshments for owners. New outdoor decks offer artificial grass, post areas and sea views, while pet-friendly cabins are available on the Ireland-France route onboard both Isle of Inisheer and W.B. Yeats.
“It’s about thoughtful innovation,” says Sheen. “We’re listening to our passengers and creating a ferry experience that meets their evolving needs.”
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