Ferries from Larne to Cairnryan In Scotland
The Larne to Cairnryan ferry route offers a fast and reliable way to travel from Northern Ireland to Scotland.
Operated by P&O Ferries, this short crossing takes just two hours and runs several times a day. It’s the perfect option for those wanting a smooth and flexible journey across the Irish Sea. Whether you’re travelling for work, a family visit, or a scenic Scottish getaway.
Departing from Larne, just a short drive from Belfast, the ferry arrives in Cairnryan on the southwest coast of Scotland. From there, you’re well connected to Glasgow, the Central Belt, and the wider UK road network. Travelling with your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, without the hassle of airport transfers or public transport.
Ferries From Belfast
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Onboard, P&O Ferries offer a comfortable experience with seating areas, refreshments, and scenic deck views. There’s space to relax during the short sailing, and pets are welcome too, with designated pet areas available for your convenience.
To secure the best fares and departure times, it’s a good idea to book your Larne to Cairnryan ferry in advance. P&O Ferries frequently offer discounted rates for families, large vehicles, and regular travellers, making the journey both affordable and efficient.
Once you reach Scotland, the natural beauty of the region is right on your doorstep. From the Galloway Forest Park to the vibrant city of Glasgow, there’s no shortage of places to explore. For travel tips and inspiration, take a look at our Scotland destination guide before you set off.
With P&O Ferries from Larne to Cairnryan, you can enjoy a quick, smooth, and stress-free journey from Northern Ireland to mainland Britain, whenever you choose to travel.
Cairnryan to Larne By Ferry
- Operated by po
- Served By The Ships: European Highlander, European Causeway
- Sailing Time: 2 hours | Up To 6 Sailings Per Day
- Foot passengers from just £33 one way
On-board Facilities
- WiFi Available
- Food Court
- Shopping Onboard
Traveling With Dogs
- Dogs allowed to travel
Accessible Travel
- Disabled Toilets Available
- Lifts Available
Traveling With Children
- Childrens Entertainment
Getting To Port (Cairnryan )
By Train: Stranraer is the closest train station to Cairnryan Ferry Terminal, approximately four miles away. There are taxis available outside the station.
By Bus: There is also a local bus service, the 350 from Stanraer, which runs Monday-Saturday.
Walking: This journey is too far to walk.
Hi,
How Do I have to book for bicycles , sorry but I can not find it in Your booking form??
Many Thanks
Marc
Hi Marc
Just looking at the P&O Ferries website, it would appear you do not need to specify taking bikes onto this route. I’ve linked the page for Larne to Cairnryan, so you can see the info for yourself. I hope this helps.
Hi, What are the requirements for travelling with our cat. She has an EU passport – will this be accepted for both legs of the trip, e.g. arrival in Cairnryan and the return to Larne. I am concerned about the passport not being valid in the UK as we are travelling from ROI to Larne. Also can we take her on the P&O Express fastcraft and do we need to leave her in our car? I have read everything but want to be doubly sure I have understood. Thanks for your help.
Hi Joanna
I’ve made a link to show all the information for TRAVELLING WITH A CAT on P&O Ferries. Here it explain exactly what the travel requirements are. As well as where your cat will remain (in this case it is in your car). I hope this helps.
Just wanted to know what ID is required to travel in my car between Larne and Cairnryan 2 adults 2 children. I’ve been given different versions with some people saying I need passports for the 2 children and others saying all I need is my drivers licence. I’d just like to know before I decide whether to book
Hi Neil
Thank you for getting in touch.
Passports and Identification is always a tricky question to answer. This will depend on which route you are taking. But as a general rule of thumb – yes, it’s a good idea to bring passports and identification.
If you are a British / Irish citizen travelling across the Irish Sea you do not need a valid passport. However, you will need to bring a form of identification with you. This can one of the following items:
A valid passport.
photographic driving license.
International Student Card.
government issued photo ID card.
health insurance/social security photographic card.
photographic bus/train pass.
EU Citizen Identity Card will usually suffice.
A birth certificate will provide adequate proof of identity for children (17 years and under with no photographic identification) to travel on our sailings.
If you are a British / Irish citizen travelling to mainland Europe you must bring a valid passport.
If you are not a British / Irish citizen, you will need a passport.
*Remember the name on your passport must match your booking.
* Remember passports must be valid for at least 6 months past the date of return.
I Hope this helps.
Can I take a dog on board as s foot paddanger
Hi Ivor
Thank you for getting in touch.
Yes, you can take your dog on as a foot passenger. They have to be pre-booked onboard. So you will have to state at the time of booking that your Dog is going to go into the onboard kennels. As you are a foot passenger, your dog will have to go here.
Kennels can be pre-booked at no extra charge. Please note that we have a limited number of kennels available. You must advise us that you intend to bring a pet in advance of travel when you book.
It may be possible to arrange to visit the kennels mid-voyage to check on your dog. Visits depend on the availability and discretion of the crew. You therefore need to prepare in such a way which ensures he/she is comfortable and happy during the journey. Any food or water your pet will require during the crossing you will have to take with you.
Under the EU pet movement system, all pet dogs, cats and ferrets moving between EU Member States must meet the same animal health rules. All pets travelling between the Republic of Ireland and the UK or Continental Europe and between the UK and Continental Europe must be micro chipped and accompanied by a pet passport. Please note it is your responsibility to provide all necessary documents and make all arrangements including where necessary quarantine, to satisfy all legal requirements.
I hope this helps.
hi, I am looking for a return trip from larne to cairnryan for one driver and car and was wondering what had happened to the 23.59 sailings?
Hi Jo
We are a little confused by your comment. The 23.59 sailing from Larne to Cairnryan (and vice versa) is operational and available to book. What exactly is your issue and we will try to help?
Need information on Ferry from Larne to Cairnryan (return) for 2 adult passengers and car please. Thank you
Hi Catherine
Thanks for getting in touch. What kind of information exactly is it you are looking for? Is it, whether or not it is possible to take a car and two passengers on this journey? Then the answer is yes? Is it to do with costings? This will all depend on the dates and times that you wish to travel on. If you get back in touch with a little more detail, I would be happy to help you out further.