- Must visit
Titanic Belfast
Flagship museum on the Titanic story, built beside the former Harland and Wolff slipways. Highly immersive and one of Belfast’s signature visitor attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Preston to Belfast
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
8 h
Average duration
8 h
Ferries per day
2
Distance
228 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Preston to Belfast is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Belfast will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Fast ferries
Of the 2 ferries that leave Preston for Belfast on Mon, Jun 22, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct ferries cover the 228 km distance in an average of 8 h but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 8 h .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest ferries will take 8 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.
10:00 AM8h00Preston6:00 PMBelfast$631One-way0 transfers- 11:00 AM8h00Preston7:00 PMBelfast$661One-way0 transfers
- 11:00 AM8h00Preston7:00 PMBelfast$661One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 AM8h00Preston6:00 PMBelfast$631One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare flight, ferry, and bus for Preston to Belfast
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Preston to Belfast among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $28, and a bus costs an average of $74.
Distance: 123 nautical miles (228 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$57 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price | $74 Average price | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 0m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 0m Average total duration 10h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Belfast is a ferry with an average price of $57 (€47).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Belfast:
A ferry is $15 (€12) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Belfast costing on average $72 (€59).
A ferry is $17 (€14) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Preston to Belfast costing on average $74 (€60).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Belfast is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 0m.
Other travel options to Belfast take longer:
Ferry takes on average 8h 0m.
Bus takes on average 10h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Belfast including taking a flight, ferry, and bus.
We recommend using the ferry as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Belfast among Omio's users.
Preston to Belfast Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 8h30 | Sailing Days Mon |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Sat, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Thu |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 8h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Preston to Belfast ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Belfast ferries for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM Preston | 8h00 | 6:00 PM Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:00 AM Preston | 8h00 | 7:00 PM Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Belfast by flight, ferry, or bus
Compare flight, ferry, and bus 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Preston to Belfast
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Preston to Belfast run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.
There are 2 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 10:30, 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 Preston 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 123 nautical miles (228 km) |
Average sailing duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Ferries per day 2 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 5 |
Fastest ferry 8h 0m |
First ferry 10:30 AM |
Last ferry 10:45 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 35 days |
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 from Preston to BelfastYou can travel by ferry between Preston to Belfast with Stena Line for as low as $28 (€23). 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
$54 (€44)
Stena Line frequency
2 a day
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 leading museum, covering art, natural history and local history in the Botanic Gardens area. Excellent general museum with broad appeal.
- Recommended
SS Nomadic
Restored White Star Line tender that served Titanic passengers. A compact but memorable maritime museum experience beside Titanic Belfast.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Creative central district known for cobbled lanes, street art, culture venues and lively atmosphere. One of the best areas to wander on foot.
- Must visit
Titanic Quarter
Redeveloped waterfront district combining maritime heritage, modern architecture and wide pedestrian spaces. Very popular for photos and skyline views.
- Must visit
St George's Market
Historic covered market hall and one of Belfast’s best-loved public spaces, valued for atmosphere, architecture and local character.
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 soft bread roll traditionally filled with bacon or sausage. It is a long-standing Belfast staple, especially popular as a hearty breakfast or lunch.
- Gluten-free
Irish Stew
A traditional stew of lamb or mutton, potatoes, onions, and carrots. It is a familiar warming dish across Belfast and Northern Ireland.
OX Belfast
An established fine-dining restaurant by the river, known for refined contemporary cooking, seasonal ingredients, and polished service.
The Muddlers Club
A well-known Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern tasting menus with strong local produce in a stylish city-centre setting.
Mourne Seafood Bar
A popular Belfast restaurant specializing in fresh local seafood and shellfish, with a relaxed atmosphere and reliable quality.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while central 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
Tips are appreciated, not always required. In restaurants, leave 10-12.5% if service is not included. Round up in taxis. Small change is fine in cafes; hotel tips are optional.
Translink NI
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.30 GBP
- Day pass
- 4.60 GBP
To the city center
Port Of Belfast, Belfast -> Lanyon Place Station, Belfast
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap-on with contactless card is available on many Metro and Glider services, but carry an alternative payment method for some services.
- Use the Translink NI app for live timetables, journey planning, and ticket purchases across Belfast buses and rail.
FAQs: Ferry from Preston to Belfast
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Belfast can start from as little as $28 (€23) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Preston to Belfast is $57 (€47) ; 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 Preston to Belfast 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 Preston to Belfast leaves at 10:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Preston to Belfast leaves at 10:45 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct ferries a day from Preston to Belfast with Stena Line. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Preston to Belfast with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Preston to Belfast is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Preston 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 Preston to Belfast, you can count on Stena Line for the best way to get you to Belfast. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Preston and Belfast and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Belfast from Preston is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Preston to Belfast is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Belfast including taking a flight, ferry, and bus.
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 Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston to Belfast
Preston
Belfast
Port of Belfast
Amenities at port
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 08:00 - 18:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 14:00
- Sunday: Closed
Distance to city center
6 km
Car connection
M2 motorway, Exit 1AWifi
- Free WiFi
Dining
- Thyme Restaurant (0.7km)
- The Dock Cafe (0.8km)
- Cast & Crew (0.9km)
Taxis
- Main companies are Value Cabs and Fonacab
WC
- Free
Public transit options for Port of Belfast
- Metro service 96, Stop: Donegall Quay
More options for your journey from Preston to Belfast
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Belfast and Preston
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