2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan
Showing times and prices for Apr 04
Cheapest price
$240
Average price
$252
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h 13 m
Ferries per day
6
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 traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Cairnryan will cost around $252 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $240.
Fast ferries
Of the 6 ferries that leave Belfast for Cairnryan on Sat, Apr 04, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Apr 04 the direct ferries cover the 73 km distance in an average of 2 h 13 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 2 h .
On Sat, Apr 04 the slowest ferries will take 2 h 22 m 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 Line3:30 AM2h22Port of Belfast5:52 AMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$2401One-way0 transfers- Stena Line11:30 PM2h22Port of Belfast1:52 AMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$2401One-way0 transfers
European Highlander4:00 AM2h00Larne Port6:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$2421One-way0 transfers- European Causeway8:00 AM2h00Larne Port10:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$2531One-way0 transfers
- Stena Line7:30 AM2h22Port of Belfast9:52 AMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$2531One-way0 transfers
- European Highlander4:00 AM2h00Larne Port6:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$2421One-way0 transfers
- European Causeway8:00 AM2h00Larne Port10:00 AMPort of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries)$2531One-way0 transfers
- Stena Line3:30 AM2h22Port of Belfast5:52 AMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$2401One-way0 transfers
- Stena Line11:30 PM2h22Port of Belfast1:52 AMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$2401One-way0 transfers
- Stena Line7:30 AM2h22Port of Belfast9:52 AMPort of Cairnryan (Stena Line)$2531One-way0 transfers
Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 04:00AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 01:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Thu, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 01:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 05:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Thu, Sat |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 09:52AM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Stena Line | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 09:52PM | Duration 2h22 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator P&O Ferries | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 2h01 | Sailing Days Mon, Thu, Fri |
Live departures
Belfast to Cairnryan ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Cairnryan ferries for today, Friday, April 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| European Causeway | 10:59 PM Larne Port | 2h01 | 1:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, April 4 | |||||
| Stena Line | 2:30 AM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 4:52 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Highlander | 3:00 AM Larne Port | 2h00 | 5:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 6:30 AM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 8:52 AM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| European Causeway | 7:00 AM Larne Port | 2h00 | 9:00 AM Port of Cairnryan (P&O Ferries) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Stena Line | 10:30 AM Port of Belfast | 2h22 | 12:52 PM Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
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.
Sat
Apr 04
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Apr 07
Thu
Apr 09
Apr 09
Fri
Apr 10
Apr 10
Sat
Apr 11
Apr 11
Mon
Apr 13
Apr 13
Wed
Apr 15
Apr 15
Fri
Apr 17
Apr 17
Sun
Apr 19
Apr 19
Tue
Apr 21
Apr 21
Wed
Apr 22
Apr 22
Thu
Apr 23
Apr 23
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Belfast to Cairnryan?
The best time to book your ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan is 7 days before departure. See how prices for ferries change on the Belfast to Cairnryan route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Belfast to Cairnryan.
Ferries
from $78Offers and deals from Belfast to Cairnryan
Discover the offers available on trains covering the route from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Belfast to Cairnryan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Ferries from Belfast to Cairnryan run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 15m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) 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 62 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 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Ferries per day 9 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 62 |
Fastest ferry 2h 0m |
First ferry 12:30 AM |
Last ferry 11:30 PM |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
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 Belfast to CairnryanYou can travel by ferry between Belfast to Cairnryan with Stena Line, P&O Ferries for as low as $37 (€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
$37 (€30)
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 22m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
FAQs: Ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan
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 $37 (€30) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Belfast to Cairnryan is $70 (€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 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 Belfast to Cairnryan leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct ferries a day from Belfast to Cairnryan 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 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 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 Belfast to Cairnryan, you can count on Stena Line, P&O Ferries 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 July.
Yes, you can take a ferry between Belfast and Cairnryan.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cairnryan are:
- Cairnryan Ferry Terminal, a key transport hub offering ferry services to Northern Ireland
- Loch Ryan, a scenic sea loch known for its natural beauty and opportunities for birdwatching
- Cairnryan Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse providing picturesque views of the surrounding coastline
- Glenapp Castle, a luxury hotel and historic castle set in beautiful gardens
- Castle of St. John, a historic tower house in nearby Stranraer offering insights into medieval life.
The best things to do in Cairnryan include:
- Walk along Loch Ryan, a tranquil loch ideal for leisurely walks and birdwatching
- Discover Glenapp Castle, a luxury hotel and gardens offering afternoon tea and guided tours
- Visit Stranraer, a nearby town with attractions like the Stranraer Museum
- Explore the Galloway Forest Park, a vast area of natural beauty perfect for hiking and stargazing
- Enjoy a coastal walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Since neither Belfast nor Cairnryan 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 Belfast to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially around busy ferry terminals and parking areas. It's important to use official ticket vendors to avoid scams related to fake or inflated transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Belfast to Cairnryan
Belfast
Cairnryan
The major port for departures 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 from Belfast to 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
The major port for arrivals 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 to Cairnryan from Belfast.
Port of Cairnryan (Stena Line)
Amenities at port
DiningAccessibilityWCCar RentalMore 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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
