Ferries from
Northern Ireland to Scotland
Ferries from
Northern Ireland to Scotland
Northern Ireland to Scotland ferries are operated by 2 ferry companies. These include P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line. There are currently 10 daily and 75 weekly sailings. The Belfast to Cairnryan ferry crossing is the most popular route with a scheduled sailing duration of 2 hours 22 minutes.
Yes, you can get a ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland. Ferries to Scotland from Northern Ireland sail approximately 75 times per week and are provided by 2 operators including P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Scotland today.
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.
Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry times vary between 2 hours and 3 hours 22 minutes.
The fastest ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland is the Larne to Cairnryan route. This ferry is provided by P&O Irish Sea and takes around 2 hours with an average price of £366.00. There are currently 6 daily and 38 weekly sailings on this ferry route.
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.
Belfast – Cairnryan first ferry: 02:30
Belfast – Cairnryan last ferry: 23:30
Larne – Cairnryan first ferry: 04:00
Larne – Cairnryan last ferry: 23:59
There are 2 ferry companies providing this route. Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry operators includeP&O Irish Sea & Stena Line.
Northern Ireland to Scotland distance: 55 miles (88km) and 47 nautical miles.
Unfortunately, due to the crossing time, you cannot do a day trip from Northern Ireland to Scotland.
There are currently 2 ferry routes operating from Northern Ireland to Scotland;
The most popular ferry is Belfast to Cairnryan with up to 6 daily and 39 weekly sailings. The journey usually takes about 2 hours 22 minutes.
The second most popular route is the Larne to Cairnryan ferry with up to 6 daily and 38 weekly sailings. The Larne to Cairnryan ferry takes about 2 hours.
Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry prices can vary depending on a number of factors including the route, ferry company, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle or not. The route you choose can also affect the ferry price with the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry costing £382.00 on average and the Larne to Cairnryan ferry costing £366.00 on average.
Prices on the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry start from just £80.29 whilst prices on Larne to Cairnryan start from £69.34. Bear in mind that prices often vary and are usually higher during the peak summer months.
Yes, you can take your car on the ferry to Scotland from Northern Ireland with 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.
Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland with P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line.
Yes, you can travel with your on the Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry with P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line.
It's easy to book ferry tickets to Scotland online at Direct Ferries using our Deal Finder. Enter your departure and arrival ports along the date you'd like to travel to see all available options. You can also compare alternative routes to find the best ferry to suit you.
You're best booking your Northern Ireland to Scotland ferry tickets as soon as you know your travel plans. Ferries can sell out, especially in the summer months so it's best to secure your place on the ferry well in advance. The sooner you book, the cheaper the prices tend to be too.
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.
You can also check out our Special Offers page and sign up to our email for exclusive offers. Discounts for senior citizens and residents are available on some routes. If you're a student, you can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets too.
More routes than anyone else.
Compare fares, times & routes in one place.
Change plans easily with flexi tickets.
Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.
Live ship tracking & real-time updates.
Top-rated customer support when you need it.
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 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.
