- Must visit
Titanic Belfast
Flagship museum on the Titanic story and Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage, with immersive galleries in the Titanic Quarter.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest ferries from Ayr to Belfast
Showing times and prices for Jul 03
Cheapest price
$50
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h
Ferries per day
11
Distance
128 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Ayr to Belfast is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ayr to Belfast will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast ferries
Of the 11 ferries that leave Ayr for Belfast on Fri, Jul 03, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 03 the direct ferries cover the 128 km distance in an average of 2 h but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 2 h .
On Fri, Jul 03 the slowest ferries will take 2 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
P&O Irish Sea11:59 PM2h01Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)2:00 AMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers- P&O Irish Sea8:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 PMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea2:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)4:00 PMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea5:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)7:00 PMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 AMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 PMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea2:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)4:00 PMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea5:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)7:00 PMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 AMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea4:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)6:00 AMLarne Port$501One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and ferry for Ayr to Belfast
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Ayr to Belfast among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a ferry which can get you there in 2h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $37, and a bus costs an average of $49.
Distance: 69 nautical miles (128 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $52 Average price | $17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 5h 45m Average total duration 5h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular ferry company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ayr to Belfast is a ferry with an average price of $47 (€39).
This is compared to other travel options from Ayr to Belfast:
A ferry is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Ayr to Belfast costing on average $52 (€42).
The fastest way to travel from Ayr to Belfast is by ferry with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Other travel options to Belfast take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ayr and Belfast including taking a bus and ferry.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Ayr to Belfast among Omio's users.
Ayr to Belfast Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Mon |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu |
Live departures
Ayr to Belfast ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Ayr to Belfast ferries for today, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P&O Irish Sea | 11:59 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h01 | 2:00 AM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 3 | |||||
| P&O Irish Sea | 4:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 6:00 AM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
 Stena Line | 7:15 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 9:30 AM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 8:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 10:00 AM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 11:15 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 1:30 PM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 2:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 4:00 PM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 3:45 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 6:00 PM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 5:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 7:00 PM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 7:45 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 10:00 PM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 8:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 10:00 PM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Ayr to Belfast by bus or ferry
Compare bus and ferry prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
Jul 03
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Jul 09
Offers and deals from Ayr to Belfast
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Ayr to Belfast and choose the solutions that best suit your needs. Below, you will find a selection of the most popular offers proposed by P&O Ferries
Up to 25% off
Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries: 25% off short stay
Northern Ireland trips with P&O Ferries just got cheaper for return passengers with 25% off your 28 hour return ticket on the Cairnryan - Larne route, when sailing until the 31st of December 2024. Valid until further notice.
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Ayr to Belfast
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Ayr to Belfast run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 10m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) if you book in advance.
There are 9 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:30, the last at 23:30. The fastest ferry covers the 69 nautical miles (128 km) distance in 2h 0m. There are 62 sailings per week. Ferries from Ayr to Belfast are available to foot passengers.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 69 nautical miles (128 km) |
Average sailing duration 2h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Ferries per day 9 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 62 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 12:30 AM |
Last ferry 11:30 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Ferry operators: Stena Line, P&O Ferries from Ayr to BelfastYou can travel by ferry between Ayr to Belfast with Stena Line, P&O Ferries for as low as $37 (€30). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
P&O Ferries
About
P&O Ferries is a British shipping company, established in 2002 through mergers and acquisitions within P&O, and owned by Dubai-based DP World since 2019. It operates passenger and freight ferry services across the English Channel, North Sea, and Irish Sea. Key routes include Dover to Calais, Hull to Rotterdam, and Cairnryan to Larne. P&O Ferries offers a range of onboard facilities such as restaurants, bars, entertainment, and duty-free shopping. They also provide various ticket options and deals, including short breaks and offers for families.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Multiple restaurants, cafes, and bars available onboard
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair access available on most ships. Accessible cabins available on some routes. Assistance available for boarding and disembarking.
Pets
Dogs and cats allowed in pet-friendly cabins or kennels. Must be kept on leash in designated areas.
Cabin reservation
Available on most routes, must be booked in advance
Car on board
Stena Line
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
Complete guide to Belfast
Things to do in Belfast
Discover the best of Belfast — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Belfast trip today.
- Must visit
Ulster Museum
Northern Ireland’s main museum, covering art, history, archaeology and natural sciences beside Botanic Gardens.
- Recommended
MAC
Major contemporary arts venue with changing exhibitions, known for modern visual art in the Cathedral Quarter.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Creative district known for cobbled lanes, street art, music venues and a lively cultural atmosphere.
- Must visit
Titanic Quarter
Regenerated waterfront area mixing Titanic heritage, striking architecture and popular photo spots.
- Recommended
Botanic Gardens
Victorian public gardens beside Queen’s University, popular for walks, picnics and the Palm House.
Ulster Fry
A classic Northern Irish breakfast with bacon, sausages, eggs, black pudding, soda bread, and potato bread. It is one of Belfast’s most iconic comfort meals.
Belfast Bap
A large, crusty local bread roll often filled with bacon, sausage, or chips. It is a Belfast staple and closely tied to the city’s working-class food culture.
- Vegetarian
Potato Bread
A soft, flat griddled bread made with potato and flour, commonly served at breakfast. It is a traditional Northern Irish staple found across Belfast.
The Muddlers Club
A Michelin-starred Belfast restaurant offering modern tasting menus built around local ingredients. It is one of the city’s leading fine-dining destinations.
Holohan's at the Barge
A respected restaurant focused on Irish and Northern Irish cooking, known for dishes like boxty and local produce in a warm, traditional setting.
Mourne Seafood Bar
A well-known Belfast restaurant specializing in fresh local seafood, including oysters, mussels, and fish dishes, with a lively but relaxed setting.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual meals are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Around 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up in taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes; not expected in pubs for bar service.
Translink NI
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.30
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Port Of Belfast, Belfast -> Lanyon Place Station, Belfast
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Metro and Glider buses in Belfast usually allow contactless card payment on board; carry a backup payment method for some services.
- Use The Translink NI app to plan journeys, check live updates, and buy mobile tickets before boarding.
FAQs: Ferry from Ayr to Belfast
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ayr to Belfast by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Belfast, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Ayr to Belfast can start from as little as $37 (€30) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Ayr to Belfast is $47 (€39) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by ferry from Ayr to Belfast is 2h 0m to travel the 79 miles (128 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest ferry from Ayr to Belfast leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Ayr to Belfast leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct ferries a day from Ayr to Belfast with Stena Line, P&O Ferries. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Ayr to Belfast with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Ayr to Belfast is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Ayr to Belfast is possible with with Stena Line. We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need book your travel to the departure port check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Ayr to Belfast, you can count on Stena Line, P&O Ferries for the best way to get you to Belfast. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Ayr and Belfast and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Belfast from Ayr is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Ayr to Belfast is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ayr and Belfast including taking a bus and ferry.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Belfast are:
- Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum dedicated to the history of the Titanic and shipbuilding in Belfast
- Belfast Castle, a historic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas
- St. George's Market, a vibrant market featuring local produce, crafts, and live music
- Ulster Museum, a comprehensive museum showcasing art, history, and natural sciences
- Botanic Gardens, a Victorian-era public garden with a tropical ravine and glasshouse.
The best things to do in Belfast include:
- Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison offering guided tours and insights into its storied past
- Take a Black Taxi Tour to explore Belfast's political history and murals
- Enjoy a scenic walk along the Lagan Towpath
- Visit the Cathedral Quarter for its vibrant arts scene and nightlife
- Explore Cave Hill Country Park for hiking and stunning views of the city.
Since neither Ayr nor Belfast are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Ayr to Belfast among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Belfast, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and tourist attractions. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure. While violent crime is low, some neighborhoods may be less safe after dark, so it’s best to stay in well-lit, populated areas. Travelers should also be cautious of street scams involving overcharging or misleading offers.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular ferry ports
Popular ports from Ayr to Belfast
Most Ayr to Belfast ferries use the Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) to Larne Port port pair. Use this guide to compare Ayr and Belfast ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Ayr
Arrival ports in Belfast
Which Belfast port do ferries from Ayr arrive at?
Ferries from Ayr to Belfast most often arrive at Larne Port. Some services arrive at Port of Belfast, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Belfast arrival port.
Port of Belfast1 Corry Place, Belfast BT3 9AG, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Belfast from Belfast city centre
Port of Belfast is 6 km from Belfast city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus94A · 15m · $5
G2, 94A · 16m · $5 · every ~6 min
Port of Belfast port facilities and services
Port of Belfast has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Thyme Restaurant (0.7km), The Dock Cafe (0.8km), Cast & Crew (0.9km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Port of Belfast.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Belfast: Parking, Taxis, WC.
More options for your journey from Ayr to Belfast
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Belfast and Ayr
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
