taking a wedding cake to Ireland

[cakelady]

I need to take a large wedding cake to Ireland later this month. Can someone tell me whether I need to check with Customs, or the airline, about what's allowed. Someone recently told me she wasn't allowed to take a birthday cake as hand luggage. What do I have to do? Will I need to make arrangements to use my car and go by ferry?
Hope someone can point me in the right direction to get information.

[joannie10]

would have to suggest you contact the airline just to be certain of what is allowed. You should be able to find contact information for them on the web, through 'google'

[Buenchico]

It's unlikely that a large wedding cake will conform to the regulations on dimensions for cabin baggage. You're only entitled, under EU security rules, to carry one item of cabin baggage and its dimensions must not exceed 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. Unless it's a single tier (or possibly 2 tier) cake, that 25cm limit might prove to be too restrictive.
(NB: Ryanair's own restrictions only allow cabin baggage up to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. It seems even lesslikely that your cake will comply:
http://www.ryanair.com/site/EN/faqs.php?sect=b ag&quest=cabinbaggageallowance )

Additionally all 'liquids' (which includes creams and gels) have to be contained in a small clear bag. So, if the cake has soft icing, or layers of cream, it won't be allowed in the cabin.

You can view the EU rules here:
http://www.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/airtrave l/airportsecurity/requirements

If, after reading the rules, you decide that you can comply with the requirements, you'll have to remember that the cake would form your sole item of cabin baggage. (i.e. you wouldn't be allowed to carry a handbag or any other items).

Unless you can find a reliable courier (who you'd really trust with your precious consignment), it would seem wisest to travel by ferry.

Chris