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The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Belfast to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$35
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
8 h
Average duration
8 h 8 m
Ferries per day
2
Distance
228 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Belfast to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Preston will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Fast ferries
Of the 2 ferries that leave Belfast for Preston on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct ferries cover the 228 km distance in an average of 8 h 8 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 8 h .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest ferries will take 8 h 15 m 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.
10:30 AM8h00Belfast6:30 PMPreston$351One-way0 transfers- 9:45 PM8h15Belfast6:00 AMPreston$631One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 AM8h00Belfast6:30 PMPreston$351One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 PM8h15Belfast6:00 AMPreston$631One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Belfast to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Belfast to Preston run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $33 but you can travel from only $25 by flight.
There are 2 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 01:45, the last at 22:45. The fastest ferry covers the 123 nautical miles (228 km) distance in 8h 0m. There are 5 sailings per week. Ferries from Belfast to Preston 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $25
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 123 nautical miles (228 km) |
Average sailing duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 |
Ferries per day 2 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 5 |
Fastest ferry 8h 0m |
First ferry 1:45 AM |
Last ferry 10:45 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $25
Belfast to Preston Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h15 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 8h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Live departures
Belfast to Preston ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Preston ferries for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:30 PM Belfast | 8h00 | 6:30 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 10:30 AM Belfast | 8h00 | 6:30 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Ferry operators: Stena Line from Belfast to PrestonYou can travel by ferry between Belfast to Preston with Stena Line for as low as $25. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Stena Line
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$66
Stena Line frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 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 require tips.
FAQs: Ferry from Belfast to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Belfast to Preston can start from as little as $33 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Belfast to Preston is $61 ; 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 Preston is 8h 0m to travel the 141 miles (228 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 Preston leaves at 1:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Belfast to Preston leaves at 10:45 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct ferries a day from Belfast to Preston with Stena Line. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Belfast to Preston with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Belfast to Preston is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Belfast to Preston 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 Preston, you can count on Stena Line for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Belfast and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Belfast and Preston including taking a flight, ferry, and bus.
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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Preston
Most Belfast to Preston ferries use the Port of Belfast to Liverpool (Birkenhead) port pair. Use this guide to compare Belfast and Preston ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Belfast
Arrival ports in Preston
Which Belfast port do ferries to Preston leave from?
Ferries from Belfast to Preston leave from Port of Belfast. The port is 4 miles (7 km) from Belfast city centre at 1 Corry Place, Belfast BT3 9AG, 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 Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Preston and Belfast
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