Ferries from
Scotland to Northern Ireland
Ferries from
Scotland to Northern Ireland
Ferries from Scotland to Northern Ireland are available with 2 operators. There are 2 ferry routes. Ferries from Cairnryan to Belfast and Cairnryan to Larne are popular ferry trips from Scotland to Northern Ireland. Sailing frequency can change throughout the year and often sailings increase during peak season.
Ferries from Scotland to Northern Ireland sail approximately 75 times per week and are available with P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line.
The ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland takes between 2 hours and 26 hours depending on the ferry route, operator, and ship that you choose.
The fastest ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland is on the Cairnryan to Larne ferry with P&O Irish Sea in 2 hours.
Yes, you can bring your car on the ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland with P&O Irish Sea & Stena Line.
There are approximately 55 miles (88km) and 47 nautical miles between Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The price of a ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland can differ by route, operator, season, vehicle type and whether you are sailing on a high-speed ferry or conventional ferry.
The Cairnryan to Belfast ferry ferry sails approximately 39 times weekly with a crossing time of 2 hours 15 minutes.
The Cairnryan to Larne ferry sails around 29 times per week with an average crossing time of 2 hours.
We suggest that you book in advance to ensure that you get the cheapest ferry prices and availability. Please check out our special offers page to take advantage of all the latest ferry discounts available.
Whether it’s better to fly or take a ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland depends on your priorities. Flying is faster, with flights from Edinburgh to Belfast or Glasgow taking around 45 minutes, but you’ll need to factor in airport transfers and security time. Ferries, like those from Cairnryan to Belfast and Larne, take around 2 hours, but offer a more relaxed journey, especially if you're bringing a vehicle. Ferries are generally more scenic and flexible for those with luggage or cars, while flights are better for speed and traveling light.
The best way to travel from Scotland to Northern Ireland is by ferry, which provides a scenic and convenient option. The most popular route is the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry operated by Stena Line, which takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. There is also a Larne to Cairnryan ferry route operated by P&O Ferries, with a similar crossing time of around 2 hours.
Book and compare Scotland Northern Ireland ferry tickets, operators, timetables and prices by using our Deal Finder.
| From | To | Average price | |
|---|---|---|---|
From CairnryanScotland |
To BelfastNorthern Ireland |
Average price$504.41 | |
From CairnryanScotland |
To LarneNorthern Ireland |
Average price$467.87 |
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Scotland draws visitors with its rugged landscapes, ancient castles, and rich culture. From Edinburgh's historic streets to the mystical shores of Loch Ness, this northern land offers unforgettable experiences. Outdoor lovers can explore the stunning Highlands or hike the dramatic peaks of the Isle of Skye. History fans will enjoy iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle, while whisky lovers can tour famous distilleries across the country. Every August, Edinburgh comes alive during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival, while Highland Games showcase traditional Scottish athletics and music all summer. Scotland's ports link to many destinations, with regular ferries from Aberdeen to the Orkney and Shetland Islands, and routes from the west coast to the Hebrides. Ferries also run between Scotland and Northern Ireland, making it easy to continue your European adventure.
Northern Ireland offers a captivating mix of stunning landscapes, ancient castles, and vibrant cities. The Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, shows off 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that create a natural wonder along the Antrim coastline. History lovers will enjoy exploring Belfast's Titanic Quarter, where the famous ship was built, or walking the 17th-century walls of Derry/Londonderry. The country's dramatic coastline appears in the popular TV series Game of Thrones, drawing fans from around the world. Each July, Northern Ireland comes alive with Orange Order parades celebrating Protestant heritage, while St. Patrick's Day celebrations in March showcase Irish culture. Outdoor lovers can hike in the Mourne Mountains or golf at Royal Portrush. From Northern Ireland, travelers can easily take ferries to Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man, making it a great starting point for exploring the British Isles.
