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Stranraer Museum
Local history museum in Stranraer covering Loch Ryan, the port, wartime stories, and everyday life in southwest Scotland.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan
Showing times and prices for Aug 25
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$51
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h
Ferries per day
10
Distance
73 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Belfast to Cairnryan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Cairnryan will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast ferries
Of the 10 ferries that leave Belfast for Cairnryan on Tue, Aug 25, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 25 the direct ferries cover the 73 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 Tue, Aug 25 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 Sea4:00 AM2h00Larne Port6:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers- P&O Irish Sea8:00 PM2h00Larne Port10:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea11:59 PM2h01Larne Port2:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 AM2h00Larne Port10:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea4:00 PM2h00Larne Port6:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea4:00 AM2h00Larne Port6:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 PM2h00Larne Port10:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea8:00 AM2h00Larne Port10:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea4:00 PM2h00Larne Port6:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
- P&O Irish Sea12:00 PM2h00Larne Port2:00 PMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$441One-way0 transfers
Belfast to Cairnryan 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, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 01:37PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 12:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 01:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 09:37AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Live departures
Belfast to Cairnryan ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Cairnryan ferries for today, Monday, August 24. 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 | 5:00 PM Larne Port | 2h00 | 7:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 Stena Line | 7:30 PM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 9:52 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 | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 11:59 PM Larne Port | 2h01 | 2:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, August 25 | |||||
| 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 | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Cairnryan by ferry
Compare 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.
Tue
Aug 25
Aug 25
Wed
Aug 26
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Belfast to Cairnryan?
The best time to book your ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan is 7 days before departure. See how prices for ferries change on the Belfast to Cairnryan route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Belfast to Cairnryan per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan.
Ferries
from $79Offers and deals from Belfast to Cairnryan
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $38 (€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 39 nautical miles (73 km) distance in 2h 0m. There are 63 sailings per week. Ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 39 nautical miles (73 km) |
Average sailing duration 2h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€30) |
Ferries per day 9 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 63 |
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 Mon |
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: Stena Line, P&O Ferries, P&O Irish Sea from Belfast to CairnryanYou can travel by ferry between Belfast to Cairnryan with Stena Line, P&O Ferries, P&O Irish Sea for as low as $38 (€30). 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 Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€33)
P&O Irish Sea frequency
5 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 Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
P&O Ferries frequency
5 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 Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Stena Line frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Cairnryan
Things to do in Cairnryan
Discover the best of Cairnryan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cairnryan trip today.
- Recommended
Mull of Galloway Broch Trust Visitor Centre
Compact heritage centre interpreting one of Scotland’s most important Iron Age brochs, with strong archaeological displays.
- Recommended
Mull of Galloway Lighthouse Exhibition
Small museum at Scotland’s southernmost point with lighthouse and maritime interpretation, ideal with the clifftop visit.
- Must visit
Portpatrick Harbour
Main harbour village near Cairnryan, known for pretty seafront walks, colourful houses, and an appealing coastal atmosphere.
- Must visit
Mull of Galloway
Scotland’s southernmost headland, prized for cliff paths, seabirds, sea views, and one of the area’s best natural viewpoints.
- Recommended
Loch Ryan Shoreline
Large sea loch beside Cairnryan with shoreline views, birdlife, and strong ferry and maritime connections to the region.
Scotch Broth
A hearty lamb and barley broth long linked to south-west Scotland. It is prized as a warming, traditional farmhouse soup.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
Smoked haddock poached in milk, often with onion and butter. A classic Scottish coastal dish valued for its rich flavour and fishing heritage.
Haggis
A savoury pudding of oats, onion, suet, and spices, usually cooked inside sheep offal. It is Scotland’s best-known national dish.
Henrys Bay House Restaurant
Popular casual stop in Cairnryan serving breakfasts, sandwiches, home baking, and coffee in a friendly setting near the ferry route.
The Merchant's House Hotel
Well-known traditional hotel dining room in Cairnryan with pub-style Scottish meals, seafood options, and a relaxed village atmosphere.
North West Castle Hotel
Established harbour-side hotel restaurant in nearby Stranraer known for seafood, grills, and broad menus in a polished but comfortable setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a rural ferry port. Lodging can be limited and pricier in peak periods, while pub meals and local transport are broadly in line with similar small UK destinations.
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
- £35+ per person for an upscale meal.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical for good service if not already added. Round up in cafes and taxis or leave a small tip.
FAQs: Ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Belfast to Cairnryan can start from as little as $38 (€30) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Belfast to Cairnryan is $92 (€74) ; 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 Cairnryan is 2h 0m to travel the 45 miles (73 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 Cairnryan leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct ferries a day from Belfast to Cairnryan with Stena Line, P&O Ferries, 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 Cairnryan with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Belfast to Cairnryan is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Belfast to Cairnryan, you can count on Stena Line, P&O Ferries, P&O Irish Sea for the best way to get you to Cairnryan. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Belfast and Cairnryan and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan is October.
Yes, you can take a ferry between Belfast and Cairnryan.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cairnryan are:
- Cairnryan Ferry Terminal, a key transport hub offering ferry services to Northern Ireland
- Loch Ryan, a scenic sea loch known for its natural beauty and opportunities for birdwatching
- Cairnryan Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse providing picturesque views of the surrounding coastline
- Glenapp Castle, a luxury hotel and historic castle set in beautiful gardens
- Castle of St. John, a historic tower house in nearby Stranraer offering insights into medieval life.
The best things to do in Cairnryan include:
- Walk along Loch Ryan, a tranquil loch ideal for leisurely walks and birdwatching
- Discover Glenapp Castle, a luxury hotel and gardens offering afternoon tea and guided tours
- Visit Stranraer, a nearby town with attractions like the Stranraer Museum
- Explore the Galloway Forest Park, a vast area of natural beauty perfect for hiking and stargazing
- Enjoy a coastal walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Since neither Belfast nor Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially around busy ferry terminals and parking areas. It's important to use official ticket vendors to avoid scams related to fake or inflated transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Cairnryan
Most Belfast to Cairnryan ferries use the Larne Port to Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) port pair, with some services arriving at Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line). Use this guide to compare Belfast and Cairnryan ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Belfast
Arrival ports in Cairnryan
Which Belfast port do ferries to Cairnryan leave from?
Ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan 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.
Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)Stranraer DG9 8RF, UK
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)Stranraer DG9 8RG, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) from Cairnryan city centre
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) is 1 km from Cairnryan city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus358, 360 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) port facilities and services
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, WC, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line): WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line): Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line).
More options for your journey from Belfast to Cairnryan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Cairnryan and Belfast
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