Ireland ferry breaks could prove an appealing prospect in future following the news that Derry-Londonderry has won its bid to be the first ever UK City of Culture.
The destination in Northern Ireland won the title ahead of three other shortlisted cities - Birmingham, Norwich and Sheffield - and will take up the role in 2013.
A range of events and cultural celebrations will be held throughout the year, including a contemporary music and dance festival, visual arts exhibitions and events featuring respected figures such as poet Seamus Heaney and singer Feargal Sharkey.
Travellers can reach Northern Ireland by taking
ferries from Liverpool to Belfast with
Norfolkline or using the Stranraer to Belfast ferry route, which is served by
Stena Line.
Town clerk and chief executive of Derry City Council Valerie Watts said: "This is a tremendous day for the city. We have been given a once-in-a-lifetime chance not only to share our innate talent, creativity and energy with the rest of the world, but also to transform this region forever.
"This is a new chapter in our journey from plantation to peace and its legacy will last for generations."
Other travel options include Stena Line's ferries from Fleetwood to Larne and
P&O Irish Sea's Cairnryan to Larne ferry service.
Posted by Andrew Smith