Ferry to Scotland

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Ferry to Scotland

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Ferry to Scotland

You can get ferries to Scotland from places such as Northern Ireland, as well as from destinations within Scotland such as the Isle of Skye, Isle of Arran and the Isle of Lewis. There are up to 1447 ferries running per week. Ferries to Scotland are provided by 5 ferry companies including P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, Northlink Ferries, Caledonian MacBrayne & Pentland Ferries. Book now with Direct Ferries and find a ferry to Scotland to suit you.


Sailing information: operators, timetables and routes

Scotland ferry timetable

The Scotland ferry timetable varies depending on the route you choose. The Belfast to Cairnryan ferry sails approximately 39 times per week, with an average duration of about 2 hours 22 minutes. The first ferry departs at 03:30 and the last ferry leaves at 23:30.

Meanwhile, the Larne to Cairnryan ferry sails 39 times per week, with an average duration of about 2 hours. The first ferry departs at 04:00 and the last ferry departs at 23:59.

Scotland ferry operators

Ferries to Scotland are provided by 5 operators including P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, Northlink Ferries, Caledonian MacBrayne & Pentland Ferries. P&O Irish Sea and Stena Line are two of the most popular Scotland ferry operators.

Scotland ferry ports

There are 25 ferry ports in Scotland. Cairnryan is the most popular port with 12 daily and 78 weekly sailings.

How long is the ferry to Scotland?

The duration of the ferry to Scotland depends on the route you choose. Popular shorter crossings include Mallaig to Armadale which takes about 30 minutes, Oban to Craignure which takes around 54 minutes and Ardrossan to Brodick with a duration of approximately 55 minutes.

Slightly longer crossings include the 2 hour 22 minute crossing from Belfast to Cairnryan, the 2 hour crossing from Larne to Cairnryan and Ullapool to Stornoway which takes about 2 hours 40 minutes.

What are the fastest ferry routes to Scotland?

Some of the most popular and fastest ferry routes to Scotland include Mallaig to Armadale, connecting mainland Scotland with the Isle of Skye in just 30 minutes. Oban to Craignure is another popular route, a journey which takes just under an hour.

Popular Scotland ferry routes

The most popular ferry route to Scotland is the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry with 39 weekly sailings and an average price of £382.00. The second most popular ferry to Scotland is the Larne to Cairnryan ferry with 39 weekly sailings and an average price of £366.00.

Where do ferries from Scotland go to?

Ferries from Scotland go to 27 ports including those in Northern Ireland, the Isle of Skye and the Isle of Arran.


Scotland ferry prices

How much does the ferry to Scotland cost?

The price of the ferry to Scotland varies depending on the route you choose. The Belfast to Cairnryan ferry costs £382.00 on average whereas the Larne to Cairnryan ferry usually costs £366.00.

What is the cheapest way to get to Scotland?

The cheapest ferry to Scotland depends on the route, season, ferry company and whether you are travelling with a vehicle or not. Prices are generally cheaper for foot passengers. We recommend booking your ferry tickets to Scotland in advance to get them at the cheapest price.

Prices start from as little as £5 on popular ferry routes such as Oban to Craignure, or from as little as £6 on the Ardrossan to Brodick and Troon to Brodick routes. From Belfast, tickets to Cairnryan start from just £33, whilst tickets from Larne to Cairnryan start from £25.


Scotland ferry travel with vehicles and pets

Can I travel as a foot passenger on the ferry to Scotland?

Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on Scotland ferries. Scotland foot operators include P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, Northlink Ferries, Caledonian MacBrayne & Pentland Ferries.

Can I take a car on the ferry to Scotland?

Yes, you can take your car on ferries to Scotland. Simply follow the signs at the port and staff will be on hand to guide you into the correct lane. Scotland car operators include P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, Northlink Ferries, Caledonian MacBrayne & Pentland Ferries.

Can I take my bike on the ferry to Scotland?

Yes, you can take your bike on ferries to Scotland. Scotland bicycle operators include P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, Northlink Ferries, Caledonian MacBrayne & Pentland Ferries.

Can I take my pet on the ferry to Scotland?

Yes, you can take your pet on ferries to Scotland. We recommend checking the ferry operator's pet policy before you travel. Scotland pet operators include P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, Northlink Ferries & Pentland Ferries.


Booking your Scotland ferry tickets

How to book ferry tickets to Scotland

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.

We'd recommend booking in advance to get your tickets at the best possible price. You can also check out our Special Offers page and sign up to our email for exclusive offers.

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About Scotland

Scotland is located in the northern part of Great Britain. Its breathtaking scenery attracts visitors from all over the world. Rugged mountains, lush forests, glistening lochs, rolling hills and dramatic coastlines create an incredible backdrop for outdoor adventures. Some of the best places in Scotland to experience the country's natural beauty include the Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond and the Scottish Highlands. Beyond its stunning scenery, lie vibrant cities bursting with history and culture. Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is a must-visit. Home to famous sights such as the historic Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Arthur's Seat, it's a great choice for a weekend getaway. Glasgow is also an exciting destination, with a buzzing atmosphere, amazing architecture and a thriving arts and music scene.

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