How to get to Cairnryan from Belfast

Mon 02 Nov
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Stena Line
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National Express
FlixBus
1,000+ more
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from Belfast to Cairnryan

How to get to Cairnryan from Belfast by train, bus, flight or ferry.

Our recommendation

ferry

The best way to travel from Belfast to Cairnryan is by taking a ferry because it’s the best combination of price and speed.

  • P&O Ferries
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Cheapest

  • P&O Ferries
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Fastest

  • P&O Ferries
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Other options

  • P&O Ferries
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  • P&O Ferries
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  • P&O Ferries
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Find all the dates and times for this journey by train, bus, flight, and ferry .

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Ferry

Best day trips from Cairnryan by ferry

The most popular day trips by ferry from Cairnryan are Belfast, Stranraer, Ayr, Larne and Glasgow. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Cairnryan on Omio.

A view of Belfast

Day trip from Cairnryan to Belfast by ferry

Why visit Belfast for the day?

Belfast is best known for its shipbuilding past and the story of the Titanic. It blends Victorian streets, political history and a lively arts and pub scene in a compact setting.

A view of Stranraer

Day trip from Cairnryan to Stranraer by ferry

Why visit Stranraer for the day?

Stranraer is a harbour town in south-west Scotland on Loch Ryan, known for its maritime history and working waterfront. It feels practical and relaxed, with castle ruins, sea views and easy access to the Rhins of Galloway.

A view of Ayr

Day trip from Cairnryan to Ayr by ferry

Why visit Ayr for the day?

Ayr is a seaside town on Scotland’s south-west coast, best known for its long beach and links to Robert Burns. The seafront, historic centre and nearby Ayr Racecourse give it a relaxed but lively character.

A view of Glasgow

Day trip from Cairnryan to Glasgow by ferry

Why visit Glasgow for the day?

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, known for grand architecture, a strong music scene and a friendly, direct character. Its industrial past on the Clyde still shapes a city that now balances major museums, lively neighbourhoods and a clear cultural confidence.

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FAQs: Belfast to Cairnryan

Travel to Cairnryan easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Belfast to Cairnryan.

FAQs
You can travel between Belfast and Cairnryan by ferry.
The cheapest way to travel from Belfast to Cairnryan is a ferry with an average price of £44.
The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Cairnryan is by ferry with an average journey time of 3h 10m.
The Belfast to Cairnryan distance is approximately 73 km.
The average frequency per day from Belfast to Cairnryan is:
  • Around 9 ferries per day.

However, we recommend checking specific travel dates for your route between Belfast and Cairnryan as scheduled services by ferry can vary by season or day of the week.

These are the most popular departure and arrival points from Belfast to Cairnryan:
  • Ferries mostly depart from Larne Port and arrive in Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries).
If finding a good deal is your main consideration for your trip from Belfast to Cairnryan, then we'll help you find the best value travel companies for you:
  • Travel with P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, P&O Ferries to go to Cairnryan by ferry.
Yes, there is a direct route available from Belfast to Cairnryan:
  • 9 direct ferries per day with P&O Irish Sea, Stena Line, P&O Ferries.
Omio customers who travel from Belfast to Cairnryan often also extend their vacation to go to Glasgow, Edinburgh, Larne, Ayr, London. Omio can help you plan your trip by finding the best connections between Cairnryan and these popular destinations at a great price.
To travel from Belfast to Cairnryan, you can take a ferry.
In Cairnryan, you can enjoy a walk along Loch Ryan, a tranquil loch perfect for birdwatching. Discover Glenapp Castle with its luxury hotel, gardens, and guided tours. Nearby, visit Stranraer to explore attractions like the Stranraer Museum. For nature enthusiasts, the Galloway Forest Park offers hiking and stargazing opportunities. You can also enjoy a coastal walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path. Key sights include the Cairnryan Ferry Terminal, Loch Ryan, the historic Cairnryan Lighthouse, Glenapp Castle, and the Castle of St. John in Stranraer.
For a relaxing visit, spending one to two days in Cairnryan is usually sufficient to explore its ferry port and enjoy the scenic coastal views.

Travelling from Belfast to Cairnryan: related information

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTravelTravel to United KingdomTravel to CairnryanHow to get to Cairnryan from Belfast

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