There are trips away, and then there are trips away with 30 wines and the French coastline rolling past the window. If you've been vaguely promising yourself a proper break since roughly last September and haven't quite got around to booking anything, Irish Ferries might have just handed you the excuse you needed.
On 21st May 2026, Irish Ferries will set sail from Dublin to Cherbourg aboard the W.B. Yeats for a Wine Tasting Mini Cruise — and as mini breaks go, this one sounds like a very good idea.
What's actually included
In partnership with the Wine & Beer Supermarket, the sailing will feature a complimentary onboard wine tasting covering more than 30 wines from across France and beyond. The focus is strongly on French regions — think Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Alsace and Burgundy — alongside a selection of other European and New World wines. Wine experts will be on hand throughout to walk you through tasting notes, offer recommendations and generally make the whole thing feel a lot more civilised than a Thursday night glass of whatever was on offer in Lidl.
The final wine list for the May sailing is yet to be confirmed, but previous events have featured a thoughtfully curated mix of well-loved classics and more exciting discoveries from producers across France and beyond. So there's something for the person who knows exactly what they like and the person who's there to be pleasantly surprised.
While you're not busy swirling and sipping, there's plenty to keep you comfortable onboard — lounges, dining, cinema entertainment and those panoramic sea views that make the whole thing feel like a proper occasion rather than just the crossing.
The pricing bit (which seems like good value!)
Fares start from €307 return for a car plus two passengers with reserved seats, or €399 if you'd like an inner cabin. Given that includes a wine tasting with expert guidance and a return sailing to France, it's hard to argue with the value — especially compared to the cost of a city break hotel for the same weekend.
There's also the small matter of EU personal allowances, which means you can bring a very respectable amount of wine and beer back in the car. Stocking up ahead of summer entertaining isn't the worst plan you'll make this year.
Who it's for
Irish Ferries are pitching this at couples, friends or anyone looking for something a bit different — and if you've been trying to plan something with a friend you've been meaning to actually see since Christmas, this ticks every box. It's easy to get to (Dublin port), it includes something to do on the way over, and you come home with French wine. It's a genuinely good time.
The sailing is expected to be popular so early booking is strongly advised. You can find out more and book your place at irishferries.com.
Terms and conditions apply. Fares valid on selected sailings only and subject to availability.
