- Must visit
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Birthplace museum of Robert Burns with original cottage, manuscripts, and major exhibitions. One of Scotland's essential literary attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Belfast to Ayr
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$51
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$53
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h
Ferries on Sep 19
9
Distance
128 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Belfast to Ayr is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Ayr will cost around $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast ferries
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 9 ferries from Belfast to Ayr, including 9 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 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 Sat, Sep 19 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.
Stena Line3:30 PM2h22Port of Belfast5:52 PMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$511One-way0 transfers- Stena Line7:45 PM2h22Port of Belfast10:07 PMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$511One-way0 transfers
P&O Irish Sea12:00 PM2h00Larne Port2:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers- P&O Irish Sea4:00 PM2h00Larne Port6:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 AM2h00Larne Port10:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea12:00 PM2h00Larne Port2:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea4:00 PM2h00Larne Port6:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 AM2h00Larne Port10:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea4:00 AM2h00Larne Port6:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 PM2h00Larne Port10:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$521One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and ferry for Belfast to Ayr
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Belfast to Ayr among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $51 For those with little time, consider booking a ferry, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, while a ferry costs an average of $56.
Distance: 69 nautical miles (128 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price | $51 Average price Cheapest | $2 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration 5h 7m 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 Belfast to Ayr is a bus with an average price of $51.
This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Ayr:
A bus is $6 less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Belfast to Ayr costing on average $56.
The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Ayr is by ferry with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Other travel options to Ayr take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Ayr including taking a bus and ferry.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Ayr among Omio's users.
Belfast to Ayr Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 10:07PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 01:37PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 01:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 09:37AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Wed, Sun |
Live departures
Belfast to Ayr ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Ayr ferries for today, Friday, September 18. 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 Larne Port | 2h01 | 2:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| P&O Irish Sea | 4:00 AM Larne Port | 2h00 | 6:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 7:15 AM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 9:37 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 8:00 AM Larne Port | 2h00 | 10:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 11:15 AM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 1:37 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 12:00 PM Larne Port | 2h00 | 2:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 3:30 PM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 5:52 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 4:00 PM Larne Port | 2h00 | 6:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 7:45 PM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 10:07 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 8:00 PM Larne Port | 2h00 | 10:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Ayr 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Offers and deals from Belfast to Ayr
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Belfast to Ayr 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 Belfast to Ayr
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Belfast to Ayr run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 10m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $37 if you book in advance.
There are 10 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 6 sailings per week. Ferries from Belfast to Ayr 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 |
Ferries per day 10 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 6 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 12:30 AM |
Last ferry 11:30 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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: P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, P&O Ferries from Belfast to AyrYou can travel by ferry between Belfast to Ayr with P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, P&O Ferries for as low as $37. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
P&O Irish Sea
About
P&O Irish Sea was a ferry operator in the Irish Sea from 1998 to 2010, offering passenger and freight services between Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. The company operated routes such as Cairnryan–Larne and Liverpool–Dublin, utilizing vessels like the European Causeway and European Highlander. In 2010, P&O Irish Sea was rebranded as P&O Ferries, which continues to provide ferry services across the Irish Sea and other routes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average P&O Irish Sea Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest P&O Irish Sea Price
$41
P&O Irish Sea frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
No luggage limits when traveling by ferry; pack as much as needed without baggage fees.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be taken without extra charges.
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in the vehicle during the crossing.
Cancellation Policy
If departure is delayed and journey is no longer purposeful, a full refund may be considered upon submission of reasonable supporting evidence.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are not permitted on board.
Amenities on board the ferry
Food sold onboard
Onboard restaurants offer a variety of meals and snacks.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations may incur additional fees; availability and costs vary.
Toilets
Accessibility
P&O Ferries provides assistance to passengers with reduced mobility both in port and on board.
Bikes
Bicycles are permitted on board; booking in advance is recommended.
Pets
Pets can travel free of charge on the Cairnryan to Larne route; up to four pets per vehicle.
Cabin reservation
Cabin reservations are available; booking in advance is recommended.
Car on board
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 P&O Ferries Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest P&O Ferries Price
$37
P&O Ferries frequency
4 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure
Amenities on board the ferry
Food sold onboard
Multiple restaurants, cafes, and bars available onboard
Toilets
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 Stena Line Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest Stena Line Price
$51
Stena Line frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Ayr
Things to do in Ayr
Discover the best of Ayr — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ayr trip today.
- Recommended
The McKechnie Institute
Ayr's main museum in a restored church. Covers local history, archaeology, Burns connections, and changing exhibitions in a central setting.
- Recommended
Alloway Auld Kirk
Historic church and burial ground where Burns's father is buried. Interprets the poet's family story and the landscape that shaped his work.
- Must visit
Ayr Esplanade
Elegant seafront promenade beside Ayr Beach. Ideal for walking, cycling, and sunset views, with classic resort atmosphere and open coastal scenery.
- Must visit
Alloway
Historic village area south of Ayr linked to Burns's life and works. Combines heritage sites, riverside scenery, and a strong sense of place.
- Recommended
Low Green
Large central greensward beside the shore, used for events and everyday recreation. A favorite local space with wide views over the Firth of Clyde.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
Cullen skink is a rich smoked haddock, potato and onion soup from Scotland, prized for its warming flavour and coastal heritage.
Haggis
Haggis is Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of minced offal, oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Neeps and tatties are mashed swede and potatoes, a classic Scottish side that commonly accompanies haggis and roast meats.
The Treehouse
Established harbourside seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Scottish plates in a relaxed setting.
The Fox And Willow
Popular casual restaurant and bar serving steaks, burgers and Scottish favourites with a lively modern atmosphere.
Renaldos
Well-known seafront venue for fish and chips, ice cream and quick seaside meals, loved for traditional Ayrshire comfort food.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than major cities, while dining and local transport are fairly typical for British seaside towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
FAQs: Ferry from Belfast to Ayr
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Ayr 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 Ayr, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Belfast to Ayr can start from as little as $37 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Belfast to Ayr is $56 ; 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 Belfast to Ayr 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 Belfast to Ayr leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Belfast to Ayr leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 10 direct ferries a day from Belfast to Ayr with P&O Ferries, Stena Line, P&O Irish Sea. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Belfast to Ayr with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Belfast to Ayr is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Belfast to Ayr is possible 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 to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
When taking a ferry from Belfast to Ayr, you can count on P&O Ferries, Stena Line, P&O Irish Sea for the best way to get you to Ayr. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Belfast and Ayr and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Ayr from Belfast 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 Belfast to Ayr is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Ayr including taking a bus and ferry.
Since neither Belfast nor Ayr 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 Belfast to Ayr 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 Ayr, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and during events. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent overcharging scams. Be wary of street vendors offering deals that seem too good to be true, and always secure personal belongings when using public transportation.
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 Belfast to Ayr
Most Belfast to Ayr ferries use the Larne Port to Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) port pair. Use this guide to compare Belfast and Ayr ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Belfast
Arrival ports in Ayr
Which Belfast port do ferries to Ayr leave from?
Ferries from Belfast to Ayr leave from Larne Port. The port is 0 miles (1 km) from Belfast city centre at Larne Harbour, Larne BT40 1AW, United Kingdom.
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 Belfast to Ayr
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Ayr and Belfast
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