Irish Ferries vessel W.B.Yeats is the mainstay of the Dublin Ireland to Cherbourg France route. With a highly modern profile incorporating a brilliant white superstructure with tinted windows, swathes of emerald green and flashes of blue, W.B.Yeats is a prominent vessel and when viewed from across the port one cannot help but get excited as you approach the vessel as this will be our home for the next 18 hours or so.
Having spent several days in the beautiful French city of Cherbourg, I casually make my way on foot to the ferry terminal.
Cherbourg is an excellent city to visit if on foot - wide pedestrian streets flanked by restaurants and bars plus, the port is only a twenty minute stroll away allowing more time to savour its offerings.
On the day in question W.B.Yeats had a scheduled departure time of 1600hrs; foot passengers being able to check-in from 1330hrs with embarkation commencing at 1530hrs.
The representatives at the Irish Ferries reception desk were very polite, friendly and helpful, checking-in passengers and their four legged fury friends (that's right, you can travel with your pet dog with Irish Ferries!) for the northbound voyage to Dublin.
Should you arrive early there is an excellent burger restaurant next too the cinema complex across the road from the port plus, within the ferry terminal there is a bar/café and WC facilities. Here is my vlog of the Port of Cherbourg:
When embarkation time arrives, a port courtesy bus transfers foot passengers from the terminal building to the vessel; actually driving aboard via the ships cavernous vehicle deck and stopping adjacent to one of the ships’ stairwells enabling passengers to ascend one of the wide colour coded stairwells to the main public spaces.
It should be noted the shuttle bus is wheelchair accessible and lifts are available aboard the ship so, if you have walking difficulties you will not have an issue.
Let's get aboard W.B.Yeats - I can't wait!
First things first, having boarded this giant vessel, passengers settle into their cabin accommodation.
Owing to the length of the voyage which is around 18hrs, overnight accommodation is mandatory.
W.B.Yeats benefits from having a range of accommodation to suit all budgets, from a reclining seat within a public lounge to a premium balcony suite which offers a king sized bed, separate lounge within the cabin, satellite TV, free WIFI, complimentary mini bar, fruit basket, hot beverages, cabin steward, breakfast within the Lady Gregory Restaurant and access to the Innisfree Club Class Lounge. WOW, is this a cruise ship or a ferry?!
Being on a mini holiday, but watching the pennies, I opted for a modest inside cabin (no window) with ensuite facilities.
Conveniently my cabin key card was issued to me upon checking in at Cherbourg. No need to locate the ships' reception, I was able to go straight to my cabin and instantly relax - how good is that!
Transiting the cabin corridors to locate my accommodation I knew I was in for a treat - deep pile carpeting, calming tones of off white and grey plus centralised ceiling lighting illuminating the aisle, I could be in a four star hotel, not a ferry!
Upon entry I was instantly impressed (and may have uttered the word WOW!).
My first impression of my modest cabin was of quality; the turned down bed, the wall mounted interactive 32" flatscreen TV with its remote control centrally placed on the bedside table below, calming décor and plump pillows - I would be very happy here!
The bedding was obviously of a high standard; the trio of plump pillows and carefully folded duvet looked so tempting - I could have dropped my luggage and curled up immediately!
A thoughtfully placed shelve could be found adjacent to my bed plus opposite was a comfortable sofa - it didn't even dawn on me this was an 'inside' cabin with no window as the cabin was bright and spacious.
Just look how much storage space was provided; more shelves, a cupboard, vanity table & writing desk - all this just for me. Plus, if I was travelling with a baby there is enough room for a cot which Irish Ferries provide.
This cabin was truly like my home away from home - temperature controlled with its own thermostat, direct dial telephone and plenty of power sockets throughout to charge my mobile phone, laptop and vlogging equipment.
The sockets are European two pin therefore, top tip, don't forget your travel adaptors if you are from the UK.
My accommodation also had its very own ensuite bathroom - no sharing with strangers. Spotlessly clean with a chunky sink, WC, polished stainless steal fixtures & fittings, hairdryer, power shower and soap.
Let's go for an explore
Although I was so tempted to curl up in bed having had a wonderful, though exhausting, long weekend in Cherbourg, I really am keen to checkout the rest of
W.B.Yeats
My first port of call was the ships reception; a facility open throughout the voyage and managed by personnel 24/7, to obtain a pamphlet of the ship to ascertain what's aboard.
All public facilities are located on two decks meaning navigation was easy plus, if you had walking difficulties you will not have an issue. Numerous elevators permit access to both passenger decks plus the cabins and vehicle decks below.
It's my tradition to watch the sail-away from port. Aboard this cruise-ferry there is an exceptional amount of exterior deck space to watch the passing vistas.
The exterior deck, aptly named Drumcliffe Promenade, is VAST and shows to good effect the shire size of the ship from this elevated position up on Deck 11 - I truly felt excited that I would be aboard for around 18hrs heading north towards Dublin, the capital of Ireland.
Positioned up on Deck 11, this exterior deck is prone to cross-winds therefore, Irish Ferries have thoughtfully installed giant glass screens so when it is a bit blowy you can still get some fresh air.
Tables and chairs are in good supply should the sun come out. Imagine watching the sun setting below the horizon or for those early birds bringing a hot beverage up here in the morning and watching the sun rise. Bliss!
Time for dinner - all this sea air has made me peckish
W.B.Yeats offers a range eateries to suit all budgets and tastes; a Café which is ideal for snacks, pizzas and hot dogs, a Brasserie for quality meals in an informal atmosphere and an a la carte restaurant - true fine dining.
This diversity is what makes ferry travel ideal; everyone is catered for.
Lady Gregory is the name of the a la carte dining room. Occupying an area away from the main public amenities, this restaurant is a peaceful oasis of calm where passengers can leisurely dine in style.
Faux leather bound menus adjacent to the entrance to Lady Gregory's proudly display the offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Predominantly decorated with dark wooden panelling, smoked mirrors, subtle lighting and an impressive floor to ceiling wine rack adorning one wall, it's décor exudes luxury.
Solo travellers, couples and groups are all catered for owing to the myriad of seating styles; urban bench sofas, individual chairs and cosy booths.
Regardless of the table size, every one benefits from polished glasses, carefully positioned cutlery, napkins folded into works of art and, should you require it, an ice bucket for your quality bottle of wine.
If you are looking for a more relaxed dining experience then Boylan's Brasserie maybe your answer.
Dominating the amid ships section of Deck 10 Boylan's Brasserie is a casual self service dining experience where a range of good quality meals can be purchased from the spotlessly clean and easy to navigate servery.
The fully carpeted dining room is vast though the effective use of wave shaped curved sofas which mirror the ceiling lighting above effectively sub divide the area into smaller, more intimate areas which are ideal if you are dining with family or friends.
Cosy nooks together with giant banqueting style tables harmoniously sit side by side with modern stools knitting the two together. Plus, if you require a child's highchair Irish Ferries have provided these - how good is that, everyone is catered for!
The furnishings are so comfortable one would be forgiven for thinking the dining room is a lounge. Well, why not treat it as such - grab a delicious gateaux from the brasserie, curl up in one of the oversized swivel chairs and simply relax - I did!
Finally, how about a naughty-nicie?
A tasty pizza, quality hot dog, sweet doughnut or moist muffin - all can be purchased from Café LaFayette.
The great thing about Café LaFayette is this facility is open 24/7 therefore, if you get the midnight munchies or fancy a hot beverage to take onto the exterior deck at silly o'clock in the morning to watch the sunrise, this is the venue to head too.
The flatscreen TV which is positioned at one end of the café proves to be a popular feature but don't forget your private cabin also has a TV so why not grab some pizzas and have 'a night in' and watch a movie.
Although not tourist related, let's take a quick look inside the commercial drivers restaurant as they too are very well catered for.
Accessed via their very own private door, The Wild Swans is a dual level facility.
Downstairs one will find a dining room.
Whilst upstairs commercial drivers will find a comfortable lounge.
Time for some retail therapy
Accessed via a prominent stairwell within Boylan's Brasserie, an attractive contemporary skylight leads one's eye upwards and towards the onboard shop.
This Aladdin's cave of goodies will satisfy the most hardy shopper as a large selection of wines, spirits, fragrances, souvenirs and confectionary can be purchased at excellent prices.
The floor to ceiling shelving units which encompass the shop are backlit creating a dramatic backdrop to the black coloured units.
Well, I am well and truly into the cruise spirit now having had a hearty meal and made a few purchases in the shop so, it's time to freshen up and enjoy the evening entertainment - there's loads going on!
A night at the movies
W.B.Yeats boasts two cinema's where the latest releases can be viewed at reasonable prices. Don't forget to grab a meal deal, that's if you have room having had a satisfying meal earlier!
A nightcap
The main evening venue is The Maud Gonne Bar & Lounge which dominates the forward end of Deck 11, two decks above the bridge!
Its elevated position and wrap around windows permits the most breath taking views.
With its sumptuous oversized sofa's and arm chairs one can literally curl up and watch the sun setting beneath the horizon.
Or you could curl up opposite the decorative fireplace and chat to family or newly found friends whilst sipping a cocktail from the bar.
Alternatively simply catch up with the day's events on the satellite TV
Let the entertainment commence
As the sun goes down the live band takes centre stage in Maud Gonne
During my northbound voyage "Good Times" provided live entertainment from early evening until late into the night.
The band were very engaging with the passengers, many of whom took the opportunity to dance the night away. A2B via Sea would like to thank these passengers for allowing me to take their photo and post it to my blog. An excellent evening was had by all!
The very well equipped bar serves a wide selection of alcoholic beverages until late into the night.
Of course, we cannot leave the children out!
Little ones and their guardians have a dedicated playroom on Deck 10; a safe and well equipped zone.
For some quality 'me time' head to the Hazel Wood Quiet Lounge.
The wall mounted TV's are muted and being located away from the hustle and bustle of the ships' main facilities you are assured of a quiet environment.
For those passengers not utilising one of the cabins during the overnight voyage, one will find the Hazel Wood Lounge a good alternative as the lights are dimmed plus, as the seats recline and have plenty of legroom, you will find this a good budget friendly option.
Separate male and female showering facilities are located nearby plus, subject to limited availability, Irish Ferries can provide a blanket for you.
It should be noted the Hazel Wood Lounge is located in close proximity to Café LaFayette which you may recall is open 24/7 therefore, highly convenient to grab a snack or drink.
For those of you who are sleeping within the Hazel Wood Quiet Lounge secure lockers are conveniently located nearby - how good is that!
Having sampled the 18hr voyage for myself here's my TOP TIP to enjoy some pure luxury; book yourself into the Innisfree Club Class Lounge!
The Innisfree Club Class Lounge is accessed via its own dedicated corridor tucked away off the forward hall on Deck 10.
Having entered the special code which only Club Class passengers are given, a pair of glass doors open permitting access to this calming oasis.
Decorated in subtle tones, the Innisfree Club Class Lounge is the pinnacle of luxury commanding some of the best forward facing views aboard being positioned directly above the bridge.
The affordable entrance fee permits unlimited access from early afternoon to late into the night and then for breakfast the following morning.
The white marble clad bar is open throughout where attentive, polite and courteous members of crew will happily serve you a range of complimentary hot beverages and soft drinks.
A good selection of alcoholic drinks are also available from the well stocked bar however, these are chargeable.
To be fair, who could say no to an ice cold beer whilst watching the world go by - I couldn't.
One is free to help themselves to a wide selection of complimentary sweets, fruit and cold meats which are beautifully presented and continuously replenished throughout the voyage.
Innisfree Club Class Lounge benefits from a range of seating styles to perfectly suit the needs of the passenger.
Perhaps you'd like to stretch out on a comfortable sofa within a booth with conveniently positioned tables and an abundance of power sockets to charge your personal electrical devices?
Alternatively maybe you'd like to have a little doze in one of the pullman style chairs with its individual foot rest and recall memories of your adventures ashore.
Maybe you just fancy a delicious cake and fresh coffee? Well, make yourself at home in one of the tub chairs.
Regardless of where you decide to sit you can be assured the complimentary WIFI will reach your seat - just another benefit of booking into the Club Class Lounge.
After a restful sleep in my (highly) comfortable cabin and breakfast in the Innisfree Club Class Lounge, W.B.Yeats duly arrives at our destination of Dublin, Ireland; the elevated position of the ships' vast exterior deck being the place to watch our manoeuvre onto the berth.
Disembarkation was swift - foot passengers being called down to the vehicle deck where a bus was waiting to take us the short distance to the ferry terminal.
Conveniently a public bus arrived shortly after my arrival which, at the cost of only a few Euro, took the other passengers and I into the City of Dublin to continue our adventures.....
Here is my journey vlog where you can [virtually] come aboard and see the vessel through my eyes: