Belfast - Cairnryan
Ferry to Scotland
Belfast - Cairnryan
Ferry to Scotland
Ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan are operated by 1 ferry company; Stena Line. The journey usually takes around 2 hours 22 minutes. There are currently 39 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Prices start from as little as £36. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Cairnryan today.
Belfast Cairnryan ferry prices tend to range between £36* and £456*. The average price for ferries from Belfast Cairnryan is typically £336*. The cheapest Belfast Cairnryan ferry prices start from £36*. The average foot passenger price is £78*. And the average price for a car is £387*.
Pricing will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over the last 30 days and is exclusive of service fees, last updated June 26.
We offer a quick and easy way to compare ferry tickets and prices, helping you find the journey that suits you best. Check out our Special Offers page for discounts on select routes and operators. Remember to book early to secure the best prices and availability!
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a wide range of discounts all year around. When searching for ferries, any senior discounts will be applied automatically if they are available. Just select your age range from the passenger options.
Students and graduates can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To take advantage of the discount, you need to register with our partner Student Beans to confirm your student or graduate status. You will then receive a discount code which can be entered during the payment process.
Resident discounts are available on a variety of Spanish and Italian ferry routes. Just click on the "Residents" option when this is displayed. The discount is automatically applied to the price. Bear in mind that proof of registration or an identity card with the correct address must be shown at check-in.
The Belfast to Cairnryan ferry times may vary depending on the ferry operator and season you’re travelling in. Sailings are usually more frequent during the peak summer months, whilst schedules may be reduced during the off-season. We recommend searching for your preferred travel dates to view the most up-to-date ferry timetable.
The first Belfast Cairnryan ferry usually departs from Belfast at around 03:20. The last ferry usually departs at 23:30.
Due to the crossing time, ferries between Belfast and Cairnryan are more suited to weekend trips or longer stays so you can really make the most of your time in Cairnryan - if you’re looking for inspiration or things to do while you’re there, check out our blog.
Yes, Stena Line allow cars on board ferries between Belfast and Cairnryan. The average price for a car is £387. Check out our Deal Finder for the latest prices.
Here are our top tips for travelling with a car:
If you're travelling by car, standard speed limits in Scotland are as follows:
Built-up areas: 30 mph
Single carriageways: 60 mph
Dual carriageways/motorways: 70 mph
Whether you can bring your campervan on the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan depends on various factors such as the ship and operator of your preferred crossing. To find out if you can take your campervan on board, just enter your details and we’ll compare operators on your selected route.
Visit our blog for more practical tips and travel inspiration when travelling with a car, campervan or caravan.
Yes, you can bring a bicycle on a ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan with Stena Line. In general, most ferry companies allow bicycles on board, but it is always best to check the operator’s bicycle policy to avoid any bad surprises at the departure port.
Yes, foot passengers can travel with Stena Line ferries between Belfast and Cairnryan. Prices for foot passengers start from £33.
Pets are allowed on ferries travelling from Belfast to Cairnryan with Stena Line. The average price for travelling with a pet on board Belfast to Cairnryan ferries is £285.
Pricing is taken from searches over the last 30 days and is exclusive of service fees, last updated June 26.
The documents you’ll need when travelling with your pet will depend on the country you’re travelling to and from. In general, you’ll need the following things when travelling with your pet on board a ferry:
For more information about taking your pet on a ferry, read our article about ferry travel with pets.
Where your pet stays on the ferry depends on the operator. Some ferries require pets to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing, whilst others provide dedicated areas such as pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels or lounges.
Make sure you check the rules before you travel, as some operators have restrictions on the type or number of pets you can bring. If your route offers cabins, kennels or lounges, we also recommend booking them in advance, as these can fill up quickly.
Our Deal Finder shows you all the different options, so you can decide which ferry crossing best suits you and your pet’s travel needs.
Stena Line:
There are a few things to bear in mind when travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs. We recommend notifying the ferry company or contacting our customer service team when you book to let them know that you’ll be travelling with a guide or assistance dog, as you may need to provide certification or make special arrangements in advance.
Guide and assistance dogs must meet the same requirements as other pets, so ensure you have valid travel documents showing proof of vaccinations, microchipping, and any required treatments such as tapeworm.
Depending on the ferry operator, guide and assistance dogs are usually allowed in public areas and can stay with you throughout the journey, making the crossing more comfortable for both you and your dog.
Bear in mind that even if pets are not allowed on board, different regulations may apply to passengers travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs. You can check the specific rules on your preferred sailing with our customer service team. For general information on travelling with assistance dogs and guide dogs, visit our Special Assistance Help page.
As the journey from Belfast to Cairnryan only takes about 2 hours 22 minutes, there are no overnight sailings on this route. The last ferry departs at 23:30.
You can get a direct ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan. Although flights are available from Northern Ireland to Scotland too, getting a ferry is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to travel between Belfast and Cairnryan.
Depending on the operator you choose, ferries offer much more flexibility, allowing you to bring your vehicle and pet along too. Plus, you can often take more luggage than you usually can on a plane. Travelling by ferry is also a relaxing and scenic experience so you can arrive in Cairnryan feeling refreshed and ready to explore!
How early you need to arrive at Belfast ferry port depends on the ferry company you are travelling with and how you are travelling, so it’s always best to check your booking confirmation in advance.
Belfast ferry port may be busy, but it's easy to navigate with clear signage and a straightforward check-in process. Even so, arriving early is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey, especially during the peak summer months or at weekends.
As a general guide, we recommend arriving 45–60 minutes before departure if you’re travelling as a foot passenger. If you’re bringing a car or campervan, aim to arrive at least 60–90 minutes in advance to allow time for check-in and vehicle procedures.
Yes, first class is available on ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan, providing a more premium and comfortable experience.
Facilities vary depending on the operator and ship but often include priority boarding and access to exclusive lounges with spacious seating, power sockets and speedy Wi-Fi. On some routes, first class may also include complimentary meals, drinks, or snacks. For longer or overnight crossings, you may have the option of upgrading to premium cabins with sea views and better amenities.
Yes, parking is available at Belfast port, so you don’t need to worry about leaving your car behind. A large car park located in front of the terminal offers over 300 spaces, including designated bays for Blue Badge holders.
Approximate parking prices:
We recommend arriving early as port car parks can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months or at weekends.
If you’re looking for accommodation near the port of Belfast before your journey, be sure to check out our Accommodation page for the best deals and prices. You’ll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets and travel styles.
Staying close to the port can make your journey much more relaxing – just wake up and head straight to your ferry! We recommend booking as early as possible to secure the cheapest prices and availability, especially during peak travel periods when accommodation can fill up quickly.
Many ferry operators aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, but facilities can vary by ship. For more information, we recommend checking directly with the ferry operator you are travelling with.
Ferries are often equipped with facilities such as step-free access, accessible cabins and toilets and dedicated seating areas. If you require assistance on board, then make sure you let the ferry operator know well in advance, so they make any special arrangements to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible.
The facilities available on board the ferry to Cairnryan depend on the operator and the vessel you’re travelling on, so it’s a good idea to check in advance what to expect. Longer crossings typically offer a wider range of facilities, including comfortable cabins, multiple dining options, pet-friendly amenities and onboard entertainment.
Accommodation and seating on ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan vary depending on the ferry operator and the length of the journey. Prices can also differ based on the operator, sailing time, and season.
For full details on the types of accommodation and seating available on board, check the ship information section at the bottom of this page or visit our ship page.
Luggage allowances on ferries between Belfast and Cairnryan can vary depending on the operator. Whilst many ferries don’t have strict limits, it’s always best to check in advance, as larger or additional items may incur an extra fee. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, you’ll usually be able to bring more luggage with you.
Ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan arrive at Loch Ryan Port. It's located just a short walk from the centre of Cairnryan, a small village in Dumfries and Galloway. From the port you can reach Stranraer in around 10 minutes, Ayr in about 1 hour and Glasgow in approximately 2 hours.
The time it takes to disembark the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan can vary depending on the ferry operator, the size of the ship, and the number of passengers and vehicles on board.
Foot passengers generally disembark the quickest, usually within 10 to 20 minutes, whilst passengers with vehicles often have to wait slightly longer, usually around 20 to 45 minutes. However, the exact times depend on the size of the ferry and how busy it is.
When travelling to Scotland, there are a few things to bear in mind:
Travel requirements can vary depending on the route, so it's important to check what documents you'll need before sailing. In most cases, a valid passport is required when travelling from Belfast to Cairnryan, along with any necessary visas or national ID cards. Requirements may differ based on your nationality and the destination country’s regulations. To avoid delays at check-in, you can find helpful information for your journey in our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and in our blog post on tips and tricks for international travel.
Although it’s sometimes possible to buy tickets at the port on the day of travel, we recommend booking your sailing in advance. Ferry crossings can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer periods or on weekends.
Booking your ferry tickets to Cairnryan ahead of time allows you to secure your preferred sailing and often save money, as prices tend to be lower the earlier you book. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, it’s especially important to reserve in advance to guarantee a space on board.
How early you need to arrive at the ferry port depends on the ferry company you’re travelling with, so it’s always best to check with your ferry operator in advance. The latest check-in time for your Belfast to Cairnryan ferry booking will often be included in your booking confirmation email.
Check-in times can vary depending on whether you’re travelling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle, with those travelling with cars, campervans or caravans usually required to arrive earlier. Either way, we’d recommend allowing plenty of time for check-in especially during peak season.
To book your ferry tickets, simply enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to see all available options and prices. You’ll also be able to view alternative routes and times, so you can find the best deal to suit you.
Look out for early booking discounts or special ticket options such as upgrades or flexi-tickets that allow you to change or cancel your booking. To make your sailing as smooth as possible, make sure you enter all the required information correctly, such as the number of passengers and vehicle specifications.
Once you’ve finalised your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It depends on the ferry operator you book with as to how your boarding pass is issued and collected.
Whilst some ferry operators issue the boarding pass as soon as your booking is confirmed, others may ask you to check in at the port. There’s also the option for online check-in, which can be done easily via the Direct Ferries app, if available.
The ticket desks are usually located near the ferry terminals. To avoid any delays at the port, we’d recommend allowing some extra time to collect your tickets and to check-in.
During check-in, you’ll need to show your email confirmation along with an official photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If you booked your ticket with a resident discount, proof of residence may also be required. If you’re travelling with a pet, you may also be asked to provide documentation showing their vaccinations and insurance.
There could be various reasons why there are no departures from Belfast to Cairnryan for the date you’ve requested. Possible reasons include:
If your preferred sailing isn’t available, then we’d recommend checking other dates or looking for overnight crossings as these can sometimes be quieter. We’d also recommend looking at alternative departure or arrival ports.
The best time to book ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan is usually as early as possible. By booking in advance, you’ll not only get your tickets at the best available prices, but you’ll also get a better choice of departure times and cabin/seating options.
This is particularly important during peak season, when demand is high and popular routes can sell out quickly. Even in the off-season, booking ahead can help you save money.
We’d recommend making your booking at least a few weeks in advance to benefit from the best offers. Bear in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
Don’t forget to check our Special Offers page for the latest discounts and deals on crossings from Belfast to Cairnryan.
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| Belfast - Cairnryan Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | £78 | |
| Average Price with Car | £387 | |
| Average Price with Motorbike | £92 | |
| Average Campervan Price | £263 | |
| Average Cabin Price | £254 | |
| Belfast - Cairnryan Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Northern Ireland |
| Destination | Scotland |
| No. of Operators | 1 |
| Operators | Stena Line |
| Average Price | £336 |
| Average Pet Price | £285 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 6 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 39 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 2 h 22 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 2 h 22 m |
| First Ferry | 03:20 |
| Last Ferry | 23:30 |
| Distance | 58 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 June 2026.
"Family day out "
"Trip to Scotland "
"Return Cairnryan/Belfast"
"Excellent service "
The capital of Northern Ireland is an enticing mix of world-class museums, historic architecture, cool nightlife and an amazing culinary scene. With so much to see and do, Belfast is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Mingle with locals in lively pubs, sample local delights in the bustling markets, explore world-class museums and admire the city's beautiful buildings.
You can easily explore Belfast city centre by foot. The city also has a great bus network with services by Metro and Glider operating in the Belfast area. There are also plenty of places where you can hire bikes from if you fancy cycling around the city. Alternatively, taxis are available too.
There are 2 ferry terminals in Belfast; the Victoria Terminal which is used for services between Northern Ireland, England and Scotland and the Isle of Man Steam Packet ferry terminal which is used for seasonal services between Belfast and the Isle of Man. Ferries between Liverpool and Belfast depart from the Victoria Terminal.
The Victoria Terminal is located on West Bank Road in Belfast.
The Victoria Terminal is conveniently located just off junction 1 of the M2. Just look for the ‘Stena Line’ signs. For those without a car, you can get the Metro Service 96 from Upper Queen Street in Belfast city centre to West Bank Road in around 20 minutes.
At the Stena Line terminal, you'll find a range of facilities including toilets, baby changing facilities, free Wi-Fi, a passenger lounge, coffee shop and vending machines. At the Steam Packet terminal, amenities include toilets and a snack bar.
Victoria Terminal 2, West Bank Road, Belfast, BT3 9JN, Northern Ireland
Ferries to Cairnryan will take you to a small village in southwest Scotland in the region of Dumfries and Galloway. Best known for its port, which acts as a gateway to Northern Ireland, Cairnryan boats a picture-perfect setting backed by lush green hills and overlooking the glistening waters of Loch Ryan. The neighbouring town of Stranraer is just a short drive away, offering a wider choice of attractions.
The village is home to 2 ferry ports, both connecting Scotland with Northern Ireland with regular daily and weekly sailings.
P&O Ferries operate out of one port, with services between Cairnryan and Larne, whilst Stena Line operate out of the Loch Ryan port, offering ferries between Cairnryan and Belfast. The ports are located around a 5-minute drive from each other.
Parking is available at both ferry ports. There is a large car park in front of the terminal building at Loch Ryan port. The first 30 minutes is free, then prices start from £1 and go up to £6 for a 24 hour stay. Parking is also available at the P&O Ferries terminal, with stays of up to 30 minutes also free of charge. You can either pay via the machines at the terminal or via the app or QR code.
You’ll find a range of amenities at both ports in Cairnryan including passenger lounges, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, a café, free WiFi and parking.
Stena Line
Loch Ryan Port,
Belfast Way,
Cairnryan,
DG9 8RG,
Scotland
P&O Ferries
The Port
Cairnryan
Stranraer
Wigtownshire
DG9 8RF
Scotland
