Holyhead Port resumes operations following Storm Darragh repairs

Sailings in and out of Holyhead Port have resumed this morning after significant disruption caused by Storm Darragh in December.

Repairs have restored one of the two ferry berths damaged during the storm, and port operators say they can handle full volumes by adjusting schedules.

The first ferry departed from Holyhead at 01:30. According to Raidió Teilifís Éireann , Irish Ferries reported delays to some services.

The 07:30 sailing from Dublin to Holyhead was postponed until 09:30 due to “operational reasons,” while the 01:30 Holyhead-to-Dublin service faced delays caused by a technical issue with a shore ramp.

Stena Line confirmed that its services from Dublin to Holyhead are running on schedule.

The partial reopening follows extensive efforts to repair the damage and minimise disruption during the closure.

Storm Darragh, which struck in early December, caused severe damage to terminal 3 and terminal 5 ferry berths. This forced the temporary suspension of services and the rerouting of freight and passengers.

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, commended the collective efforts of those involved.

“I would like to thank passengers and the freight industry for their patience and co-operation in adapting to the route changes that were necessary,” he said.

“I would also like to thank the port operators, the ferry companies and the dedicated staff in Holyhead, Fishguard, Milford Haven and elsewhere for everything they did to ensure people and goods could undertake their journeys, particularly over the peak festive period.”

Mr Skates also highlighted the collaboration between the Welsh and Irish Governments in mitigating the disruption.

The First Minister met with the Taoiseach last week to discuss the ongoing impact of the closure. Both governments shared real-time information to minimise traffic and service issues.

The Welsh Government has launched a task force to strengthen the port’s resilience and meet future needs.

The group includes representatives from the Irish and UK Governments, Stena, and other key players in the ports and ferry industry.

Stena, which operates Holyhead Port, was praised for its efforts in reopening berth 5 despite weather challenges.

“Work is proceeding to establish the multi-stakeholder taskforce I announced last week,” Mr Skates confirmed. “I will provide you with regular updates as this work progresses.”

Holyhead is a vital transport hub for passengers and freight between the UK and Ireland.