Belfast – Cairnryan

Ferry to Scotland

Belfast – Cairnryan

Popular Ferry Operators for Belfast - Cairnryan

Latest Offers

View all Special Offers

Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry

On average there are 39 weekly sailings between Belfast and Cairnryan. 1 operator sails this route,  Stena Line and runs throughout the year. The ferry from Belfast to Scotland (Cairnryan) costs between £83.88 and £480.12, depending on ticket details. Belfast to Scotland ferry prices exclude any service fees. The Stena Line Belfast to Cairnryan timetable changes seasonally. Use our Deal Finder to get live pricing and availability for the ferry from Belfast to Scotland.

Belfast Cairnryan Sailing Times

The first Belfast to Cairnryan boat departs Belfast at approximately 03:30 and the last boat from Belfast to Scotland (Cairnryan) departs at approximately 23:30. Stena Line Belfast to Scotland ferry schedules can vary by operator and season. Look at the latest timetable to find out the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry times today.

How long is the Belfast ferry to Scotland (Cairnryan)?

The average Belfast to Cairnryan sailing times are approximately 2 hours 22 minutes. Ferry times from Belfast to Cairnryan can vary. Any variation is due to numerous reasons, such as changes to the ferry route, changes made by the ferry operators, and external factors such as weather conditions at the time of sail. This means that all sail times given here are to be taken as estimates only. Be sure to check before you book what your expected Belfast to Cairnryan sailing time will be.

Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry Operator Schedules

The ferry schedule for this ferry route has up to 6 ferries running per day. There are up to 39 ferries running per week. These sailings are provided by Stena Line. Timetables for the ferry to Scotland from Belfast can be affected by many different factors, such as seasonal changes, changes to the ferry route, changes made by the ferry operators, and so on. Here at Direct Ferries, we will always give you the most relevant information regarding ferry sailings, so you can find the best ferry from Belfast to Scotland at the best time for you.

With around 39 ferry sailings per week, you’re bound to find a crossing to suit you. However, there are alternative Belfast to Scotland ferry routes available, including Belfast to Stranraer. Compare the Cairnryan ferry with Belfast to Stranraer ferry prices to find the best deal.

How much is the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan?

Belfast to Cairnryan ferry prices typically range between £83.88* and £480.12*. The average price is typically £368.29*. The cheapest Belfast Cairnryan ferry prices start from £83.88*. The average Stena Line Belfast to Cairnryan foot passenger prices are approximately £83.65*. The average price for a car is £382.81*.
Pricing of the Belfast to Cairnryan ferry will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route, and sailing times. Prices exclude service fees.

How far is it from Belfast to Cairnryan?

The distance between Belfast to Cairnryan is approximately 66.4 miles (106.9km) or 58 nautical miles.

Can I travel with a car on the ferry from Belfast to Scotland (Cairnryan)?

You are currently able to take your car with you on this Belfast to Scotland ferry route.

Can I travel as a foot passenger on the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan?

Yes, foot passengers can travel on the Stena Line Belfast to Scotland (Cairnryan) ferry. See above for the average Stena Line Belfast to Cairnryan foot passenger prices.

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan?

Yes, pets are allowed on the boat from Belfast to Scotland (Cairnryan) with Stena Line.

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.

Belfast - Cairnryan Ferry Route summary
Departure DestinationNorthern Ireland
DestinationScotland
No. of Operators1
OperatorsStena Line
Average Price£368
Average Daily Sailings6
Average Weekly Sailings39
Average Sailing Duration2 h 22 m
Fastest Sailing Duration2 h 22 m
First Ferry03:30
Last Ferry23:30
Distance58 Nautical Miles

* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 April 2025.

Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry Most Popular Questions

Belfast Cairnryan Ferry reviews

Cairnryan Guide

Cairnryan Ferry Port serves as a crucial link between Scotland and Northern Ireland, offering an intriguing blend of scenic beauty and strategic importance. This port town is an ideal starting point for travellers seeking to explore the rugged coastlines and rolling hills of southern Scotland. Nearby attractions include the enchanting Castle Kennedy Gardens and the Galloway Forest Park, perfect for nature enthusiasts. From Cairnryan, one can easily access Belfast via frequent ferry services, providing a seamless connection for further exploration. Transport from the ferry port to local destinations is facilitated by bus services, with taxis readily available for direct routes to nearby towns. Cairnryan itself, while modest in size, plays a significant role in regional transit and offers a peaceful stopover amidst bustling travel schedules.


Belfast Guide

Belfast, with its rich maritime heritage and vibrant cultural scene, presents an intriguing destination for travellers. The Titanic Belfast, an iconic museum located at the site where the RMS Titanic was built, draws visitors from around the globe. Not far from here, the historic Belfast City Hall and the bustling St. George's Market offer a glimpse into the city's past and present. For those interested in the arts, the yearly Belfast International Arts Festival, held in October, showcases a wide range of artistic expressions. The Belfast ferry port offers convenient connections to several UK and Irish destinations, enhancing its appeal as a travel hub. Travelling from the ferry port to the city centre is a breeze with frequent bus services and a short taxi ride. This ease of access, combined with the city's attractions and events, makes Belfast ferry port a compelling point of entry for exploring Northern Ireland and beyond.

Belfast to Cairnryan
Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 31/03/2025 and 06/04/2025

Operator Departure Time Arrival Time Duration Sailing Days
Stena Line 03:30 05:52 2 hours 22 minutes Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Stena Line 07:30 09:52 2 hours 22 minutes Everyday
Stena Line 11:30 13:52 2 hours 22 minutes Everyday
Stena Line 15:30 17:52 2 hours 22 minutes Everyday
Stena Line 19:30 21:52 2 hours 22 minutes Everyday
Stena Line 23:30 01:52 2 hours 22 minutes Everyday

Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry Alternatives

Onboard the ferries

The quickest way to make & manage your booking

Download our app today
Download our app Download now A woman using her mobile phone

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
New design, same Direct Ferries