Ferries from

Northern Ireland to Scotland

Ferries from

Ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland

Northern Ireland

Ferries from Northern Ireland to Scotland sail approximately 74 times per week. 2 ferry companies provide the ferries to Scotland and there are 2 ferry routes to choose from. Ferries from Northern Ireland sail from Belfast and Larne and arrive at Cairnryan. Popular routes include the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry.

Timetables can differ depending on the ferry company, ship type and season you travel in. Check the latest ferry timetables between Northern Ireland and Scotland using our deal finder. Bear in mind, there are usually more sailings during the summer.

Northern Ireland to Scotland Ferry

What is the best way to get from Northern Ireland to Scotland?

You can easily get a ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland. Ferries to Scotland from Northern Ireland sail approximately 74 times per week and are provided by 2 operators; P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line.

How long is the ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland?

The duration of the ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland depends on a number of factors including the ferry company you're travelling with and the weather conditions at the time of sail. The duration of the Northern Ireland Scotland ferry also varies between routes, with the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry taking approximately 2 hours 22 minutes on average.

Fastest Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry time: 2 hours
Longest Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry time: 26 hours

What is the fastest ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland?

The fastest ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland is the Larne - Cairnryan route. This ferry is provided by P&O Irish Sea and takes approximately 2 hours.

Scotland to Northern Ireland ferry timetable

Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry times can differ depending on the route you choose and which ferry company you're travelling with. The season you travel in can also affect the times, with more options usually available in the peak summer months. If you're travelling from Northern Ireland to Scotland by boat, it's best to check the latest Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry timetable before you book.

Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry operators

There are 2 ferry companies providing this route. Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry operators include P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line

Popular Northern Ireland Scotland ferry routes

Popular Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry routes include:

Belfast to Cairnryan
Larne to Cairnryan

Belfast to Cairnryan ferry

The most popular ferry is Belfast – Cairnryan with up to 6 daily and 40 weekly sailings. The journey usually takes about 2 hours 22 minutes. 

Larne to Cairnryan ferry

Another popular route is the Larne – Cairnryan ferry with up to 6 daily and 38 weekly sailings. The Larne – Cairnryan ferry takes about 2 hours.

Getting the ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland with a car

Yes, you can get from Northern Ireland to Scotland by car.

Car Operators: P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line

Check out our deal finder for more information on routes and to find Northern Ireland to Scotland car ferry prices.

How much is the ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland?

The Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry price can vary depending on a number of factors including the route, ferry company, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle or not. 

Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry offers and discounts

We recommend booking your Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry tickets in advance to get them at the best price. The cheapest ferries from Northern Ireland to Scotland are usually out of season and at off-peak times. Visit our special offers page to take advantage of all the latest Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry discounts and to find the cheapest ferry to Scotland.

How far is Scotland from Northern Ireland?

Scotland to Northern Ireland distance: 55 miles (88km) and 47 nautical miles.

How to book Northern Ireland Scotland ferry tickets

You can book Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry tickets online at Direct Ferries. Compare Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry prices, timetables and ferry companies using our Deal Finder.

Ferries from Northern Ireland to Scotland

How much are ferries from Northern Ireland to Scotland?

From   To Average price
From
BelfastNorthern Ireland
To
CairnryanScotland
Average price£375.47
From
LarneNorthern Ireland
To
CairnryanScotland
Average price£356.00

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Northern Ireland: A Land of Myths and Natural Beauty

Northern Ireland offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the dramatic Giant's Causeway with its hexagonal basalt columns to the lush Glens of Antrim, the natural beauty of this country is simply breathtaking. Belfast, the capital city, has transformed into a cultural hub with attractions like Titanic Belfast, where visitors can learn about the famous ship built in the city's shipyards. Game of Thrones fans will recognise many filming locations scattered throughout the countryside, including the Dark Hedges and Cushendun Caves. The country comes alive during the 12th of July celebrations, when parades commemorate the Battle of the Boyne, while St Patrick's Day festivities in March attract visitors from around the world. From Belfast port, travellers can easily take ferries to Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man, making Northern Ireland an excellent starting point for exploring the British Isles.

Scotland: A Journey Through History and Scenic Landscapes

Scotland offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, historic castles and vibrant cities. From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the wild Highlands, this northern part of the UK captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich heritage. History enthusiasts can explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and the haunting battlefield of Culloden. The country's stunning scenery includes Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and the dramatic Glencoe valley. Throughout the year, Scotland hosts traditional events including the Highland Games in summer and the fiery Hogmanay celebrations at New Year. Edinburgh's world-famous Fringe Festival transforms the capital each August with thousands of performances. Travellers can easily connect to Northern Ireland via ferry from Cairnryan, or venture to the Orkney and Shetland Islands from Aberdeen. With excellent road connections to England, Scotland serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the British Isles.

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