- Must visit
Titanic Belfast
Flagship museum on the Titanic story, shipbuilding heritage, and Belfast’s maritime history. One of the city’s signature visitor attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Cairnryan to Belfast
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$218
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h
Ferries per day
12
Distance
73 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Cairnryan to Belfast is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairnryan to Belfast will cost around $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast ferries
Of the 12 ferries that leave Cairnryan for Belfast on Fri, Jun 05, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 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 .
On Fri, Jun 05 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 Line11:30 AM2h15Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)1:45 PMPort of Belfast$701One-way0 transfers
European Highlander4:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)6:00 AMLarne Port$2131One-way0 transfers- European Causeway11:59 PM2h01Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)2:00 AMLarne Port$2161One-way0 transfers
- European Causeway8:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 AMLarne Port$2171One-way0 transfers
- European Highlander8:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 PMLarne Port$2241One-way0 transfers
- European Causeway4:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)6:00 PMLarne Port$2331One-way0 transfers
- European Highlander4:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)6:00 AMLarne Port$2131One-way0 transfers
- European Causeway8:00 AM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 AMLarne Port$2171One-way0 transfers
- European Highlander12:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)2:00 PMLarne Port$2331One-way0 transfers
- European Highlander8:00 PM2h00Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)10:00 PMLarne Port$2241One-way0 transfers
Cairnryan to Belfast Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Sat |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Sailing Days Wed, Thu, Fri |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Wed, Fri |
Live departures
Cairnryan to Belfast ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Cairnryan to Belfast ferries for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stena Line | 7:30 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 9:45 PM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Highlander | 8:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 10:00 PM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Causeway | 11:59 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h01 | 2:00 AM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
| Stena Line | 3:30 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 5:45 AM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Highlander | 4:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 6:00 AM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 7:30 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 9:45 AM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Causeway | 8:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 10:00 AM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 11:30 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 1:45 PM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Highlander | 12:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 2:00 PM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 3:30 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 2h15 | 5:45 PM Port of Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Causeway | 4:00 PM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 2h00 | 6:00 PM Larne Port | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cairnryan to Belfast 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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How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Cairnryan to Belfast?
The best time to book your ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast is 49 days before departure. See how prices for ferries change on the Cairnryan to Belfast route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cairnryan to Belfast per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast.
Ferries
from $85Offers and deals from Cairnryan to Belfast
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Cairnryan to Belfast and choose the solutions that best suit your needs. Below, you will find a selection of the most popular offers proposed by P&O Ferries
Up to 25% off
Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries: 25% off short stay
Northern Ireland trips with P&O Ferries just got cheaper for return passengers with 25% off your 28 hour return ticket on the Cairnryan - Larne route, when sailing until the 31st of December 2024. Valid until further notice.
Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Cairnryan to Belfast run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 10m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $38 (€30) if you book in advance.
There are 8 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 61 sailings per week. Ferries from Cairnryan 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 39 nautical miles (73 km) |
Average sailing duration 2h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€30) |
Ferries per day 8 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 61 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 12:30 AM |
Last ferry 11:30 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 from Cairnryan to BelfastYou can travel by ferry between Cairnryan to Belfast with Stena Line, P&O Ferries for as low as $38 (€30). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
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 Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
P&O Ferries frequency
5 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Multiple restaurants, cafes, and bars available onboard
Toilets
USB plugs
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 Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€38)
Stena Line frequency
9 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
Major national museum with art, natural history, archaeology, and modern history collections in the Botanic area.
- Recommended
Crumlin Road Gaol
Former Victorian prison now operating as a museum and heritage attraction, known for guided tours and powerful local history.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Creative district of cobbled lanes, street art, cultural venues, and lively atmosphere; one of the best areas to explore on foot.
- Must visit
Botanic Gardens
Historic public gardens beside Queen’s University, popular for walking, glasshouses, and easy access to nearby museums.
- Must visit
Titanic Quarter
Regenerated waterfront district mixing industrial heritage, major attractions, and striking modern architecture.
Ulster Fry
A hearty Northern Irish breakfast with bacon, sausage, eggs, black pudding, soda bread, and potato bread, and one of Belfast’s best-known traditional meals.
- Vegetarian
Soda Farls
A classic Northern Irish griddle bread made with baking soda and buttermilk, commonly served at breakfast and closely associated with Belfast and Ulster.
- Vegetarian
Potato Bread
Soft, pan-fried flatbread made from potatoes and flour, often eaten as part of an Ulster Fry and a staple in local home cooking.
Deanes EIPIC
A celebrated fine dining restaurant offering modern tasting menus and polished service, widely regarded as one of Belfast’s top special-occasion venues.
The Muddlers Club
A highly regarded modern restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter, known for refined seasonal cooking and a stylish but intimate atmosphere.
Holohan's Pantry
A well-known restaurant focused on Irish and Northern Irish comfort food, especially local potato dishes, in a warm and welcoming setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London, with moderate prices for hotels, dining, and transport by UK standards.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Around 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes, bars, and for hotel staff.
Translink NI
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.30
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Port of Belfast -> Belfast Grand Central Station
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Tap-on contactless payment is available on many Translink bus and rail services, but carry a backup payment method for some services or ticket machines.
- Use the Translink NI app to plan journeys, buy tickets, and check live departures before boarding.
FAQs: Ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan to Belfast can start from as little as $38 (€30) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Cairnryan to Belfast is $79 (€63) ; 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 Cairnryan to Belfast is 2h 0m to travel the 45 miles (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 Cairnryan to Belfast leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 8 direct ferries a day from Cairnryan to Belfast with Stena Line, P&O Ferries. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Cairnryan to Belfast with Stena Line
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Cairnryan to Belfast is possible with Stena Line.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan to Belfast, you can count on Stena Line, P&O Ferries for the best way to get you to Belfast. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Cairnryan and Belfast and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Belfast from Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan to Belfast is September.
Yes, you can take a ferry between Cairnryan and Belfast.
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 Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan to Belfast
Cairnryan
Belfast
The major port for departures in Cairnryan is Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) for your trip from Cairnryan to Belfast.
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)
Amenities at port
DiningAccessibilityWCCar Rental
The major port for arrivals in Belfast is Port of Belfast. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Port of Belfast for your trip to Belfast from Cairnryan.
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 Cairnryan to Belfast
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Belfast and Cairnryan
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