Boating from Belfast

my mate wants to come visit me, he lives in belfast. He doesnt have a passport or a license. Does he need either of those if he takes a boat from belfast over here?

Having done a quick internet search, it seems the general consensus is that you don't need a passport specifically (unless perhaps you were flying between the two places), but you should have some form of photo ID to show. It's probably a good idea for him to check with the ferry company that he will be travelling with.

This is on the Stena Line ferries website (www.stenaline.co.uk):

I'm a British citizen. Do I need a passport?

British citizens travelling to Northern or the Republic of Ireland do not need a passport but are advised to take a form of identity. Remember that the name on your passport must match the name on your booking, otherwise you may not be able to travel and your insurance may be invalid. Other passport holders should check with the relevant embassy regarding passport and visa requirements.

I also found this information on www.eurodrive.co.uk/irishferries/htm regarding travelling between Ireland (not Northern Ireland) and England :

For UK & Irish residents travelling between those two countries, Irish Ferries recommend that you bring your passport. Irish and British citizens do not strictly require a passport to travel between the two countries - some form of identification is however required - Photo ID, Bank Cards or bills for house utilities addressed to you are all acceptable and useful means of identification. For other EU nationals and routes, a valid Passport or national Identity card will be required. Non-EU nationals may also need a visa.

Cool. thanks for the info!!