Thousands of Irish abroad travel home to vote in gay marriage referendum

Around 3.2 million people were eligible to vote in the referendum and reports suggested a higher than expected turnout.

Irish citizens living around the world traveled home to have their say in the referendum — with many documenting their travels on social media.

Among them was a group of around 30 Irish people who arrived from London on a ferry in high spirits, carrying banners and balloons and singing Elton John's hit "Are You Ready For Love".

Ireland, if carried out successfully, could become the first country to legalize same-sex marriage through a referendum. More than 3 million people are eligible to vote, including 60,000 expats. Those who have left the country less than 18 months ago are able to vote in the referendum, but need to show up at a polling station in person.