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Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Birthplace museum dedicated to Robert Burns, with manuscripts, objects and family home interiors that bring the poet's life and work into focus.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Belfast to Ayr
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£40
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£41
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h
Ferries on 18 Sept
10
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 travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Ayr will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap ferry tickets today for only £40.
Fast ferries
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 10 ferries from Belfast to Ayr, including 10 direct services.
On Fri 18 Sept 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 .
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 Sea12:002h00Larne Port14:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes- P&O Irish Sea20:002h00Larne Port22:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea23:592h01Larne Port2:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
Stena Line15:302h22Port of Belfast17:52Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)£401One-way0 changes- Stena Line19:302h22Port of Belfast21:52Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)£401One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea12:002h00Larne Port14:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea20:002h00Larne Port22:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea4:002h00Larne Port6:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea16:002h00Larne Port18:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea8:002h00Larne Port10:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£401One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach 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 ferry, with an average ticket price of £34 For those with little time, consider booking a ferry, which has an average total journey time of 3h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of £34, while a coach costs an average of £38.
Distance: 69 nautical miles (128 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£34 Average Price Cheapest | £38 Average Price | £2 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration 5h 6m 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 ferry with an average price of £34.
This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Ayr:
A ferry is £4 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Belfast to Ayr costing on average £38.
The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Ayr is by ferry with an average journey time of 2h 11m.
Other travel options to Ayr take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Ayr including taking a coach and ferry.
Belfast to Ayr Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30 | Arrival Time 13:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00 | Arrival Time 10:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 18:30 | Arrival Time 20:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 15:30 | Arrival Time 17:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 20:00 | Arrival Time 22:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00 | Arrival Time 06:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 23:59 | Arrival Time 02:00 | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:15 | Arrival Time 13:37 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 12:00 | Arrival Time 14:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:00 | Arrival Time 13:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00 | Arrival Time 09:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sat, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30 | Arrival Time 09:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00 | Arrival Time 10:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 16:00 | Arrival Time 18:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 20:00 | Arrival Time 22:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 03:00 | Arrival Time 05:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00 | Arrival Time 06:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:15 | Arrival Time 09:37 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 23:59 | Arrival Time 02:00 | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Wed, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 19:30 | Arrival Time 21:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 12:00 | Arrival Time 14:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri |
Live departures
Belfast to Ayr ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Ayr ferries for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P&O Irish Sea | 4:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 6:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Stena Line | 7:15 Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 9:37 Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 8:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 10:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Stena Line | 11:15 Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 13:37 Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 12:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 14:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Stena Line | 15:30 Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 17:52 Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 16:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 18:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Stena Line | 19:30 Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 21:52 Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 20:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 22:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 23:59 Larne Port | 2h01 | 2:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Ayr by coach or ferry
Compare coach 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
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Belfast to Ayr
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Belfast to Ayr run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at £27 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 56 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 11m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Ferries per day 9 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 56 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 0:30 |
Last ferry 23:30 |
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: Stena Line, P&O Ferries, P&O Irish Sea from Belfast to AyrYou can travel by ferry between Belfast to Ayr with Stena Line, P&O Ferries, P&O Irish Sea for as low as £27. 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
£30
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
£27
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
£35
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
Rozelle House Museums and Galleries
Purpose-built gallery and museum with changing exhibitions, local history displays and family-friendly interpretation in Ayr's cultural quarter.
- Recommended
Culzean Castle
Country house galleries within Culzean Country Park, showing art, furnished rooms and estate history in an impressive clifftop setting.
- Must visit
Ayr Beach
Long sandy beach and promenade popular for walks, sunsets and sea air. It is a classic Ayr outing close to the town centre.
- Recommended
Rozelle Park
Large public park with gardens, woodland paths, a café area and access to museums. It is ideal for a quieter stroll away from the seafront.
- Recommended
The Low Green
Broad riverside green space and harbour-side walking area where the River Ayr meets the sea. Good for local views, fresh air and a quieter stroll.
Mince and Tatties Pie
A rich beef mince stew topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden. A long-standing Ayrshire and Scottish comfort dish found in homes and pubs.
Cullen Skink Style Smoked Haddock Breakfast
Smoked haddock poached in milk, often served with poached egg and buttery bread. A classic west coast breakfast dish tied to Scottish fishing traditions.
Haggis
Oats mixed with suet, onion and seasoning, traditionally cooked in a sheep’s stomach. Scotland’s signature savoury dish with a strong Burns Night link in Ayrshire.
The Balgarth Pines
Well-known Indian restaurant in Ayr offering classic curries, tandoori dishes and warm service in a comfortable dining room.
The Rabbit
Stylish seafront restaurant in the Marine Troon hotel, known for Scottish produce, seafood and grill dishes in a polished setting.
Scotts Bar & Restaurant
Established harbour-side venue in nearby Troon with seafood, steaks and Scottish dishes, plus marina views and a smart casual atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Ayr is moderate by UK standards, with fairly priced hotels, casual dining, and local transport. Costs are usually lower than in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Belfast to Ayr ferries
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 £27 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Belfast to Ayr is £34; 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 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 0:30. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Belfast to Ayr leaves at 23:30.
Yes, there are 9 direct ferries a day from Belfast to Ayr with 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 Stena Line, P&O Ferries, 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 coach and ferry.
popular ferry ports
Important Stations and Airports in Belfast and 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 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 · £4
G2, 94A · 16m · £4 · 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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