In the summer of 2023 Stena Line introduced Stena Vision onto their long haul route between Rosslare Europort in Ireland and Cherbourg in the Normandy region of France.
Not the newest vessel operating for the company, she is however a true giant even by today's standards; a large imposing vessel which turns heads - a blemish free
white-washed superstructure with a modern livery in royal blue adorned by a crown like structure towering over her flame red funnel which proudly presents the logo of her owner.
Imagine standing on her upper most deck as you arrive at your destination as crowds gather on the quayside giving you a friendly welcoming wave. This is exactly what happened to me as I arrived at the Port of Cherbourg having spent 17hrs aboard this truly brilliant family friendly cruise-ferry.
Grab a cuppa, curl up, get comfy and come aboard.
I start my journey in Dublin, catching the southbound Irish Rail train from Connelly Street Station in the city centre.
The railway station is very easy to find if you are a new visitor to this vibrant city which, by the way, is well worth spending a few days to explore its myriad of shops, bars and restaurants.
The southbound journey to Rosslare Europort is aboard a small train, perhaps only three carriages long, offering a WC, comfortable seating, individual USB and three pin power sockets to charge small devices and either a fold down table or fixed table to cater for up too four passengers.
The route takes passengers through some truly stunning scenery; along the coastal track offering sea views, through woodland, marshland and even a golf course backed by beautiful hills - top tip: have your camera ready to take some snaps. Regrettably I didn't do my research and wasn't aware how beautiful the vistas would be. Well, that's what A2B via Sea® is here to do - I undertake the journey so YOU know what to expect when you undertake your own adventure.
The train was exceptionally clean with no debris or graffiti in the public areas however, no onboard catering is available therefore, be sure to bring some snacks and beverages with you for the journey which is several hours long.
There are several sporadic services a day direct to Rosslare Europort so please check timings before departure and whether its arrival in Rosslare allows enough time for your ferry check-in.
The railway station at Rosslare Europort is only a five minute walk from the ferry terminal – how convenient!
Below: Port train station can be seen on the far left with the ferry terminal on the far right.
Should you arrive early there is a shop, bar and restaurant at the top of the hill leading out of the port; only a ten minute walk from the railway station and well worth the hike as there are stunning views.
Within Rosslare Europort Ferry Terminal one will find the Stena Line check-in desk along with Irish Ferries (Ireland/Wales), Brittany Ferries (Ireland/France/Spain) and DFDS (Ireland/France) - check out my blogs on my website - , plus WC facilities, lounge area with TV, information boards and localised three pin power sockets.
At the time of writing no beverage or snack facilities were available so don't arrive too early.
On the day of my voyage Stena Vision would be conveniently departing at 2200hrs allowing me a leisurely day to get to the port from Dublin; foot passengers being able to check-in for their voyage to Cherbourg from 1930hrs and board around an hour before sailing.
A port courtesy bus transfers passengers from the terminal to the vessel - all very easy and relaxed.
The foot passenger bus transits the port – only a short distance – and actually boards the ships’ vehicle deck enabling passengers to disembark and ascend one of the numerous spotlessly clean stairwells to the ships' reception on Deck 7.
There are also two elevators should passengers have walking difficulties or simply don't fancy the uphill hike with their luggage - don't forget, there are no restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring aboard, unlike other means of transport.
Now, Stena Vision is a large vessel, towering above all other passenger ferries in port. Initially I was concerned I would get ‘lost’ owing to an anticipated maze of corridors hiding a myriad of amenities however, I shouldn’t have worried – she is undoubtably an easy ship to navigate both on foot and in a wheelchair - I'll come back to this later.
Our first port of call would be the ships’ reception conveniently positioned amid-ship on Deck 7, the first of FOUR decks where passenger facilities are located - that's right, this ship is HUGE
The reception is in fact the only public facility on this deck as the rest of this area is devoted to cabin accommodation. It is necessary for me to visit the reception to collect my cabin key card.
First impressions count and the welcome I was given by the members of crew were second to none; polite, friendly & courteous – I truly felt welcomed; a theme which would continue throughout my trip.
It should be noted the reception is open 24/7 so, if you have any queries there is ALWAYS someone to assist you both day and night.
Being directed to my cabin, upon entry I was instantly impressed by the space and cleanliness as I entered.
Opting for a four berth inside (no window) cabin, my room benefitted from hard flooring, two lower single beds and two upper beds which can be stowed away in the ceiling when not in use; the beds being extremely comfortable with plump duvets and pillows being provided.
A main light and individual bedside lights illuminated the cabin beautifully.
UK three pin and European two pin power sockets are available within the cabin to charge your devices, though make sure your cables are long enough as the sockets are positioned high up on the wall.
Towels for use within my very own private ensuite bathroom are provided which also had a shower, soap, sink and WC.
Other cabin grades are available including Panorama Cabins located at the forward ends of Decks 7 & 8 plus cabins specifically for those needing a wheelchair – these are located within close proximity to the ships’ reception so, if the occupant needs assistance by pulling the red emergency cords, the crew can be in attendance immediately, both day and night.
It should be noted that cabin accommodation aboard Stena Vision is not mandatory therefore, one can bring aboard their own sleeping bag and rest within one of the passenger spaces saving you money.
Let’s go and check out the Stena Vision.
Passenger amenities are located on Decks 7 through to 10.
Deck 8 is the location of the shop; a spacious area offering a selection of cosmetics, fragrances, children’s games and souvenirs.
Speaking at length to the Shop Manager who obviously adored his job and spoke with passion about his role, I was advised there are plans afoot to enlarge the shop to the port side into an area which is currently being used as a store room and offer a selection of wines, beers, spirits and tobacco plus, a cinema – though all is subject to final consent from the ships’ company.
Floor to ceiling windows entice passengers into the shop from the adjacent thoroughfare which gives access to more passenger cabins located fore and aft.
All products are presented on attractive shelving units; the shopping centre being very well illuminated with wide aisles.
Wide aisles enable passengers to wander around the shop at leisure plus, if you are in a wheelchair you will have plenty of space for manoeuvring.
Deck 9 is dedicated to passenger amenities - no passenger cabins.
Let’s go and have a look.
At the aft end is the Taste Restaurant, a large facility dominating the full width of the vessel.
Now, my voyage was during an 'off peak' time of year and due to low passenger numbers Taste was closed however, with special thanks to the Food and Beverage Manager this whole facility was opened and lights illuminated just for A2B via Sea® so I could take some photographs to show all of my global readers what would be on offer during peak time sailings - thanks Stena!
Numerous islands would proudly display freshly prepared meals, with designated areas for hot plates, cold plates, deserts and even a special children’s counter.
Below: children have their own counter
Within the restaurant is a Bar which would serve a selection of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages – though subject to additional charge.
The dining room offers comfortable seating ranging from social bench style sofas and individual chairs in calming beige coloured upholstery which contrasts beautifully against the flame red carpeting.
Its location means sea views can be obtained through the large windows which are on three sides of the dining room.
Passing the 'Green Stairs' in the aft hall we enter the Riviera Bar; a highly stylish nautical themed bar which doubles as a thoroughfare between the aft and fore ends of Deck 9 - it would be rude not too stop and indulge in a beverage and make new friends!
The décor features dark wooden panelling which contrasts beautifully against the white and cream upholstery of the neighbouring seating areas which are positioned in small intimate alcoves on localised carpeting.
The bar is shaped as the hull of a ship; the highly polished wood and stainless steel sides beautifully reflect the seems of the adjoining hard flooring
Ceiling mounted blue florescent lights with modern soft white light panels effectively leads ones eye towards the window lined swivel bar stools; just imagine sitting here enjoying a pre or post meal drink watching the sun setting beneath the horizon.
Continuing forward we arrive at the Metropolitan Grill and Bar - though some signage also calls this facility 'Taste Restaurant'.
This facility is vast which is effectively subdivided into smaller zones due to localised carpeting and waist high glazed blocks.
This large area is very social as one can spend many hours here having a meal, a beverage at the bar and even watch live streamed TV on a cinema screen.
The bar is open throughout the voyage – that’s right, even at 3, 4, 5 o’clock in the morning, although alcohol is not served from 0100hrs.
As indicated earlier, it is not compulsory to have cabin accommodation therefore, if you are sleeping within one of the public lounges and fancy a hot chocolate or snack at silly o'clock in the morning, the Metropolitan Bar will be open – how good is that!
The Metropolitan Grill is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals are freshly prepared, hot and tasty.
During my voyage I sampled the meatballs for my evening meal which were excellent.
Being open plan to the Metropolitan Bar one is free to sit anywhere they desire, although technically the seating area for dining is within close proximity to the restaurant beneath the highly attractive modern blue ceiling lighting.
At the forward end of Deck 9 one will find three children’s play rooms, each one suited for differing age groups; nursery children & toddlers, primary school age and Teens – everyone is catered for!
Parents and guardians alike will be relieved to know that during a lengthy voyage, if you are travelling with children they will not get bored.
It should be noted there are slot machines for adults in a designated arcade downstairs.
Whilst children play the adults can relax next door in the Newsroom, a trademark of Stena Line, offering comfortable seating and wall mounted TV monitors showing LIVE BBC news.
Adults can relax whilst keeping an eye on their children.
Drinks and snacks can be purchased from the adjoining Nordic Spa Reception - a hot morning beverage whilst watching the world's events on TV - very civilised.
The aforementioned Nordic Spa is by far the jewel in the crown of Stena Vision occupying a prime elevated position at the forward end of the deck.
Accessed at a nominal charge of around 15Euros one is granted two hours within the spa which benefits from having two saunas (one with sea views), two Jacuzzis, relaxation area, WC and shower facilities.
One is given a pair of slippers, towel and a plump luxurious robe – all you need to do is bring your swim wear. Thoughtfully, lockers are provided to store your personal belongings.
An oasis of calm can be found within the relaxation zone where you can simply gaze out to sea on your very own lounger.
Highly impressive floor to ceiling windows offer uninterrupted forward and starboard side views which are simply outstanding! Imagine relaxing in the jacuzzi watching the passing vistas!
As the sun goes down the spa is illuminated in vibrant lighting.
And what about this - a sauna with sea views! True bliss!!
Reluctantly leaving the sauna - I could have stayed all day - power showers are available within the Nordic Spa.
Wonderfully refreshed and revitalised, let's head on up one further deck
Tucked away at the stern of Deck 10, accessed via the 'Green Stairs' one will find the Sky Bar - a nightclub which would not look out of place in an urban metropolis but, there is no charge to gain entry!
A modern bar adorns one wall.
A tiled chequerboard dancefloor occupies a central position beneath colourful lighting and a glitterball.
Flame red coloured sofas and tub chairs encompass the dance floor plus, direct access to the exterior decks will remind you that you are actually aboard a ferry - why not have a drink watching the beautiful moonlit sea gently passing by.
Back inside, an adjoining stage enables live bands to perform and a DJ will play the latest hits.
Stena Vision benefits from having an extensive amount of exterior deck space.
A stroll on deck will enable you to fully explore all the accessible areas which include Deck 12 by the funnel right down to Deck 7 – if you venture down the stairwells at the aft end.
Below: smoking area
Are you in a wheelchair - please do not worry - the decks are accessible!
Stena Vision even offers a dedicated dog exercising area therefore, if you are travelling with your four legged friend this is where they can get some fresh air during the lengthy voyage. Stena Line have thought of everything!
On a balmy warm summer’s evening THE place to be is the seaside themed deck bar at the stern of Deck 11.
The flooring is painted to resemble a beach plus, overhead cabanas, murals, beach bar and seating with cushions truly make this the best place to enjoy a beverage as the sun goes down – I only wish there were faux palm trees and overhead twinkle lights to make me feel I'm in a cosmopolitan bar in the French or Italian rivieras.
In closing, if you are looking for a family friendly ferry with superb children’s facilities, excellent food and courteous, friendly crew, Stena Vision will tick all of the boxes.
The Nordic Spa is without a doubt THE way to pamper yourself and the perfect way to start your holiday.
Have a hearty breakfast after your restful sleep (if you have a cabin), a stroll on deck, some shopping, a pre-dinner drink in the bar, a hot evening meal and then dance the night away in the night club - why travel from A2B any other way?!
The Port of Cherbourg is located on the outskirts of the beautiful city but, unlike air travel where one has a lengthy wait for their baggage at the carousel then the hassle of airport transfers, at Cherbourg one can actually walk to the city in around 20min.
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