Larne - Cairnryan
Ferry to Scotland
Larne - Cairnryan
Ferry to Scotland
Ferries from Larne to Cairnryan are operated by 1 ferry company; P&O Irish Sea. The journey usually takes around 2 hours. There are currently 38 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Prices start from as little as £25. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Cairnryan today.
Larne Cairnryan ferry prices tend to range between £25* and £455*. The average price for ferries from Larne Cairnryan is typically £334*. The cheapest Larne Cairnryan ferry prices start from £25*. The average foot passenger price is £71*. And the average price for a car is £382*.
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 August 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! For more budget-friendly tips, check out our guide.
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 Larne 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 Larne Cairnryan ferry usually departs from Larne at around 04:00. The last ferry usually departs at 23:59.
Due to the crossing time, ferries between Larne 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, P&O Irish Sea allow cars on board ferries between Larne and Cairnryan. The average price for a car is £382. 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:
Read our guide to travelling with a vehicle for more information.
Whether you can bring your campervan on the ferry from Larne 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 or check out our caravan guide for more practical tips and travel inspiration.
Yes, you can bring a bicycle on a ferry from Larne to Cairnryan with P&O Irish Sea. 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. For more information, check out our guide to taking your bicycle on board.
Yes, foot passengers can travel with P&O Irish Sea ferries between Larne and Cairnryan. Prices for foot passengers start from £25.
Pets are allowed on ferries travelling from Larne to Cairnryan with P&O Irish Sea. The average price for travelling with a pet on board Larne to Cairnryan ferries is £256.
Pricing is taken from searches over the last 30 days and is exclusive of service fees, last updated August 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.
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. For general information on travelling with assistance dogs and guide dogs, visit our Special Assistance Help page and our dedicated Accessible Ferry Travel guide.
Whether an overnight ferry is available on the route between Larne and Cairnryan depends on various factors such as the operator and schedule. To check, simply enter your travel details and our search results will show if your preferred ferry sails overnight. You can also view current timetables, crossing times, and alternative day-time sailings using our Deal Finder.
Overnight ferries can sometimes take a little longer than daytime crossings, but they come with several perks. Sailing overnight means your travel time doesn’t cut into your daytime plans, and ferries and terminals are often cheaper, creating a more relaxing sailing. Overnight crossings can also be cheaper than daytime sailings, making them a great option if you’re travelling on a budget.
If you’re planning an overnight trip, we recommend booking your cabin in advance, as these can sell out quickly.
You can get a direct ferry from Larne 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 Larne 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!
Ferries from Larne to Cairnryan take 2 hours on average. The fastest ferries to Cairnryan take about 2 hours.
How early you need to arrive at Larne 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.
Larne ferry port is easy to navigate. 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.
You can use our Deal Finder to check whether first-class travel is available on your selected route. Many ferry operators offer first-class options, 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, both short and long-term parking is available at Larne ferry port so you don't need to worry about leaving your car behind.
If you’re looking for accommodation near the port of Larne 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. For more information, see our guide to accessible ferry travel.
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 Larne 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.
Luggage allowances on ferries between Larne 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 Larne to Cairnryan arrive at the P&O Ferries terminal just outside the village of Cairnryan.
The time it takes to disembark the ferry from Larne 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 Larne 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. As well as our travel advice guides on International Travel and European 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 Larne 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.
Tip: For more information, check out our guide on Booking and Boarding a Ferry and Frequently Asked Questions page.
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 Larne 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 Larne 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 Larne to Cairnryan.
Need help? Check out our Ferry Travel FAQs.
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| Larne - Cairnryan Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | £71 | |
| Average Price with Car | £382 | |
| Average Price with Motorbike | £77 | |
| Average Campervan Price | £244 | |
| Average Cabin Price | £281 | |
| Larne - Cairnryan Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Northern Ireland |
| Destination | Scotland |
| No. of Operators | 1 |
| Operators | P&O Irish Sea |
| Average Price | £334 |
| Average Pet Price | £256 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 6 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 38 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 2 h |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 2 h |
| First Ferry | 04:00 |
| Last Ferry | 23:59 |
| Distance | 47 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 August 2026.
"Rough journey "
"First time on this ferry crossing"
"PO FERRY "
"Excellent service"
Situated on the north east coast of Northern Ireland, Larne is a coastal and industrial market town, with a population of just over 18,000 people. The only ferry route from Larne is the daily crossing to Cairnryan, which lasts around two hours. Larne is a hotbed of natural beauty; the coastal road and Gleno Waterfall are arguably the two most popular tourist destinations belonging to the town, with views so striking that visitors often return to them a second time. Carnfun Country park also lies relatively near Larne, a popular area with caravanners due to its camping facilities and welcoming atmosphere. Carnfun isn’t the only park in the vicinity, there are several dotted around the region, perfect for a stroll in the afternoon sun. For something a bit off the beaten track, Northern Ireland’s maze provides excellent value for money, alongside the mini-golf course, it is the perfect setting for a family day out. Those who are more interested in the history and culture of the region will either head to the famous lighthouse near the pier, or to Olderfleet castle, laying south of the harbour. Ferries operating from Larne offer the chance for both foot passengers and passengers travelling by car to enter. For passengers hoping for a return day trip, there is a car park situated at the harbour, charging 60p per hour or £6 for the whole day. Pets are allowed only with passengers travelling by cars, and the animals have to remain in the vehicles for the entirety of the crossing.
The Scottish town of Cairnryan overlooks Loch Ryan and is notable for its large modern ferry port. The port provides regular year round connections between Scotland and Northern Ireland with services to/from Belfast and Larne operated by 2 of the biggest ferry operators - Stena Line and P&O Ferries, each operating from separate terminals. Whilst many travellers just pass through Cairnryan en route to or from Northern Ireland on the ferry, the town features a hotel, some bed and breakfasts and guest houses for those spending the night.
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