- Must visit
Castle of St John
Restored medieval tower with museum displays on Stranraer’s history, combining architecture, local artefacts, and family-friendly interpretation.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Aug
Cheapest price on 31 Aug
£38
Average ticket price on 31 Aug
£38
Fastest journey on 31 Aug
2 h
Average journey duration on 31 Aug
2 h
Ferries on 31 Aug
11
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 travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Cairnryan will cost around £38 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap ferry tickets today for only £38.
Fast ferries
On Mon 31 Aug, we found 11 ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan, including 11 direct services.
On Mon 31 Aug 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 .
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 Line15:302h22Port of Belfast17:52Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)£381One-way0 changes- Stena Line19:302h22Port of Belfast21:52Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)£381One-way0 changes
- Stena Line7:152h22Port of Belfast9:37Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)£381One-way0 changes
- Stena Line11:152h22Port of Belfast13:37Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)£381One-way0 changes
P&O Irish Sea8:002h00Larne Port10:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£391One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea8:002h00Larne Port10:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£391One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea14:002h00Larne Port16:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£391One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea11:002h00Larne Port13:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£391One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea4:002h00Larne Port6:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£391One-way0 changes
- P&O Irish Sea20:002h00Larne Port22:00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)£391One-way0 changes
Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 08:00 | Arrival Time 10:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 15:30 | Arrival Time 17:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 20:00 | Arrival Time 22:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 04:00 | Arrival Time 06:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 23:59 | Arrival Time 02:00 | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:15 | Arrival Time 13:37 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 23:30 | Arrival Time 01:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30 | Arrival Time 09:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 14:00 | Arrival Time 16:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 16:00 | Arrival Time 18:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 17:00 | Arrival Time 19:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:20 | Arrival Time 05:42 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Tue, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:15 | Arrival Time 09:37 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 19:30 | Arrival Time 21:52 | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 12:00 | Arrival Time 14:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator P&O Irish Sea | Departure Time 11:00 | Arrival Time 13:00 | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon |
Live departures
Belfast to Cairnryan ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Cairnryan ferries for today, Sunday 30 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stena Line | 15:30 Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 17:52 Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 17:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 19:00 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 | |
| Monday 31 August | |||||
| 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 | |
| P&O Irish Sea | 11:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 13:00 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 | 14:00 Larne Port | 2h00 | 16:00 Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 changesdirect | |
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.
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31 Aug
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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 £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 39 nautical miles (73 km) distance in 2h 0m. There are 64 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 £27 |
Ferries per day 9 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 64 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 0:30 |
Last ferry 23:30 |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
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 £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
£34
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
Cairnryan Heritage Museum
Small village museum on local life, ferry links, and wartime stories from around Cairnryan and Loch Ryan, run by local volunteers.
- Recommended
Stranraer Museum
Regional museum and gallery with changing art shows plus objects on natural history, archaeology, and everyday life in Dumfries and Galloway.
- Must visit
Portpatrick Harbour
Well-known harbourfront walking area with colourful houses, boats, and easy access to the Southern Upland Way and coastal viewpoints.
- Recommended
Loch Ryan Shore
Long bay with a peaceful shoreline walk, views across Loch Ryan, and regular ferry movements that connect the village to its maritime setting.
- Recommended
Agnew Park
Woodland and coastal estate near Stranraer with waymarked trails, gardens, beach access, and good wildlife-watching opportunities.
- Gluten-free
Cullen skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, closely associated with south-west Scotland’s fishing coast and valued for its warming, smoky flavour.
Haggis
Scotland’s classic savoury pudding of sheep’s offal, oats and suet, traditionally served at Burns suppers and deeply tied to national food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Champit tatties
Mashed potatoes mixed with butter and spring onions. A traditional Scottish side, especially popular in colder months and with roast or fried meats.
Mermaid Restaurant
Casual harbour-area pub and restaurant known for reliable comfort food, seafood options and a relaxed stopover atmosphere near the ferry port.
North West Castle Hotel
Established waterside hotel restaurant in nearby Stranraer offering Scottish favourites, seafood and broad sea views in a comfortable setting.
The Crown Hotel
Traditional inn dining room serving hearty Scottish pub meals in a straightforward, welcoming setting convenient for travellers on the A77.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for rural Scotland. Food and lodging can cost more than in larger towns, while local transport options are limited and ferry travel adds to visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a pub or restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for higher-end dining nearby.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafés do not expect tips, but small change is welcome.
Traveline Scotland
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- : null
To the city centre
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) -> Stranraer Harbour
- Distance
- 10 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Cairnryan is served mainly by scheduled coach and bus links tied to ferry sailings, so check the current operator timetable before travel.
- Contactless payment may vary by operator in this rural area. Carry a payment card and some cash in case onboard card payment is unavailable.
FAQs: Belfast to Cairnryan ferries
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 £27 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Belfast to Cairnryan is £57; 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 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 0:30. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan leaves at 23:30.
Yes, there are 9 direct ferries a day from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 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 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 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.
popular ferry ports
Important Stations and Airports in Belfast and 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 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.
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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