Ferries from

Scotland to Outer Hebrides

Ferries from

Ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides

Scotland

Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferries are operated by 1 ferry company; Caledonian MacBrayne. There are currently 3 daily and 20 weekly sailings. The Ullapool to Stornoway ferry crossing is the most popular route with a scheduled sailing duration of about 2 hours 40 minutes.

Scotland to Outer Hebrides Ferry

How do you get to Outer Hebrides from Scotland?

You can get a ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides. Ferries from Scotland to Outer Hebrides sail approximately 20 times per week and are provided by Caledonian MacBrayne. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Outer Hebrides today.


Sailing information: duration, timetables and operators

How long is the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides?

The duration of the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides 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 Scotland Outer Hebrides ferry also varies between routes.

Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry times vary between 2 hours 40 minutes and 5 hours 35 minutes.

Is there a fast ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides?

The fastest ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides is the Ullapool to Stornoway route. This ferry is provided by Caledonian MacBrayne and takes around 2 hours 40 minutes with an average price of £183.00. There are currently 2 daily and 12 weekly sailings on this ferry route.

Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry timetable

Scotland to Outer Hebrides 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 Scotland to Outer Hebrides by boat, it's best to check the latest Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry timetable before you book.

Ullapool – Stornoway first ferry: 10:30  
Ullapool – Stornoway last ferry: 18:30

Oban – Castlebay first ferry: 12:40     
Oban – Castlebay last ferry: 13:50

Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry operators

There is 1 ferry company providing this route. Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferries are provided by Caledonian MacBrayne.

How far is Outer Hebrides from Scotland?

Scotland to Outer Hebrides distance: 88 miles (141km) and 76 nautical miles.

Can you do a day trip from Scotland to Outer Hebrides?

Due to the crossing time, you cannot do a day trip from Scotland to Outer Hebrides.


Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry routes

There are currently 5 ferry routes operating from Scotland to Outer Hebrides; 

Ullapool to Stornoway

Uig to Tarbert (Harris)

Uig to Lochmaddy

Oban to Castlebay

Mallaig to Lochboisdale

Popular Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry routes

The most popular ferry is Ullapool to Stornoway with up to 2 daily and 12 weekly sailings. The journey usually takes about 2 hours 40 minutes

The second most popular route is the Oban to Castlebay ferry with up to 1 daily and 5 weekly sailings. The Oban to Castlebay ferry takes about 4 hours 45 minutes.


Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry prices

How much is the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides?

Scotland to Outer Hebrides 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 Ullapool to Stornoway ferry costing £183.00 on average and the Oban to Castlebay ferry costing £216.00 on average.

What is the cheapest ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides?

Prices on the Ullapool to Stornoway ferry start from just £50.00 whilst prices on Oban to Castlebay start from £40.97. Bear in mind that prices often vary and are usually higher during the peak summer months.


Getting the Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry with vehicles and pets

Can I get the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides with a car?

Yes, you can take your car on the ferry to Outer Hebrides from Scotland with Caledonian MacBrayne. Check out our deal finder for more information on routes and to find Scotland to Outer Hebrides car ferry prices.

Can I travel from Scotland to Outer Hebrides as a foot passenger?

Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides with Caledonian MacBrayne.

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides?

Unfortunately you cannot take your pet on the ferry from Scotland to Outer Hebrides.


Booking Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry tickets

How to book ferry tickets to Outer Hebrides

It's easy to book ferry tickets to Outer Hebrides 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.

When is the best time to book Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry tickets?

You're best booking your Scotland to Outer Hebrides 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.

How to get the cheapest Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry tickets?

We recommend booking your Scotland to Outer Hebrides ferry tickets in advance to get them at the best price. The cheapest ferries from Scotland to Outer Hebrides 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.

Ferries from Scotland to Outer Hebrides

Why use Direct Ferries?

Sail everywhere

More routes than anyone else.

Sail everywhere

Sail cheaper

Compare fares, times & routes in one place.

Sail flexibly

Change plans easily with flexi tickets.

Sail flexibly

Sail smart

Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.

Sail informed

Live ship tracking & real-time updates.

Sail informed

Sail confidently

Top-rated customer support when you need it.

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.

Discover the Outer Hebrides: Scotland's Remote Island Paradise

The Outer Hebrides, a stunning archipelago off Scotland's west coast, offers visitors a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich Gaelic culture, and peaceful isolation. These islands boast some of the UK's most beautiful beaches, with the white sands and turquoise waters of Luskentyre and Scarista on Harris rivalling Caribbean shores. History buffs can explore ancient sites like the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones on Lewis, which predate Stonehenge, or visit the preserved blackhouses that showcase traditional island living. The islands host several annual events including the Hebridean Celtic Festival in July, which celebrates the region's strong musical heritage, and the Harris Arts Festival showcasing local creative talent. Stornoway serves as the main port, connecting travellers to mainland Scotland via ferry routes to Ullapool, while additional services link the southern islands to Skye and Oban. The Outer Hebrides provide the perfect escape for those seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventures and an authentic Scottish island experience away from the crowds.

The quickest way to make & manage your booking

Download our app today

Customer Service

Visit our customer service page to find useful information on travelling by ferry, our FAQs, and how to contact us for help with your booking

Need help?

Let's keep in touch

Exclusive deals delivered to your inbox