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Just wondering if we should take a bike lock with us to use to lock our bikes up on the ferry journey or is it safe without? We don’t wanna carry any extra weight if we don’t need to.
Yes! I wouldn’t leave my bike unlocked on the ferry.
We shared a chain lock between two of us and took turns in carrying it. One of the hotels we stayed in had a secure area for bikes but there were other bikes in the so felt better knowing that ours were locked together, and we use outside a couple of cafes we stopped at so definitely good to carry a lock with you.
When it comes to ferry journeys and bike security, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. While ferry trips are generally pretty safe, it’s wise to bring a bicycle lock along just in case. It provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind while you enjoy your journey. I understand not wanting to carry extra weight, but think of it as an investment in your bike’s security. Nowadays, it’s important enough to insure any of your possessions, so you may need help at https://sundaysinsurance.co.uk/cyclist-insurance. But again, it’s all up to you, but personally, I insure everything I own.
It depends on the specific ferry and its security measures. Many ferries have dedicated bike storage areas or bike racks, and generally, these are quite safe, especially if the ferry company has a good reputation. However, it’s always a good idea to check if the ferry provides any secure locking mechanisms for bikes.
If you’re travelling on a smaller or less supervised ferry, or you’re uncertain about the security on board, it might be worth taking a lightweight lock just for peace of mind. If you know the ferry is reliable and has proper storage, you might be able to skip the lock and save on weight.
You could also consider asking the ferry company about bike security to make an informed decision! Similarly, don’t forget to insure your bike before travelling. I think temporary bike insurance coverage will be cheap. You can probably use this site to compare your bike or vehicle quotes. I personally don’t transfer my vehicles through ferries without insurance.
I would say 50 /50 on this. I used it, but it was a light hiplock. I would estimate that half the people with bikes on the ferry locked theirs and the other half didn’t. I wrote up my ferry experience on a blog post if you want to get an idea of the details I experienced. I actually took the night Ferry on the way back, which worked pretty well.
In general, most ferries are quite safe, especially on popular UK and Irish routes like those between Scotland and Northern Ireland. Bikes are typically stored in a specific area with other bicycles and secured by ferry staff. That said, bringing a lightweight lock for peace of mind isn’t a bad idea, particularly if you’re the type who worries about theft or damage. A simple cable lock adds very little weight but can provide reassurance.
However, if you find yourself feeling anxious about leaving your bike unsecured, it might be more than just a one-off concern. In that case, you could benefit from fear therapy or anxiety counselling, which is available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), for instance, can be very effective for addressing fear-related responses, whether about theft, safety, or travel.
Also, it might be worth looking into travel insurance that covers bikes specifically. Some UK-based providers, such as CycleGuard, Pedalsure, or even British Cycling membership, offer bike theft and damage coverage during travel, including ferry trips. This can provide added peace of mind without needing to lug heavy locks around.
