Ferry from Troon to Larne in Ireland
The Troon to Larne ferry route once provided a fast and direct connection between Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Popular with both tourists and freight traffic, it offered a shorter crossing time than some alternatives and was a convenient choice for those travelling from the west coast of Scotland. However, this service was permanently closed in 2016, with ferry operations consolidated at nearby Cairnryan.
Alternative Routes
Although the Troon to Larne ferry is no longer running, you can still travel easily between Scotland and Northern Ireland via other well-established routes. The most direct alternative is the Cairnryan to Larne ferry, operated by P&O Ferries. This crossing takes just under two hours and runs multiple times daily, making it a reliable replacement for the former Troon service.
For travellers heading to Belfast instead, Stena Line offers frequent sailings from Cairnryan to Belfast. The drive between Larne and Belfast takes around 30 minutes, so both options provide good access to Northern Ireland’s main towns and cities.
Scotland To Northern Ireland Ferries
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Cairnryan is just over an hour’s drive south of Troon, with straightforward road links via the A77. Although the location has changed, the journey time across the Irish Sea remains fast and comfortable. Especially with upgraded port facilities and modern vessels now in service.
While the closure of the Troon to Larne ferry was disappointing for many, the Cairnryan routes ensure the connection between Scotland and Northern Ireland remains strong. Whether you’re planning a short break, visiting family, or transporting goods, these alternatives offer the flexibility and reliability travellers need.
Planning a trip to Northern Ireland? Explore our Ireland Destination Guide for tips on where to go, scenic drives, and must-see attractions across the region.
I recently travelled on the high speed ferry to and from ireland and while i could not fault the service I would like to complain about the choice of dvd that was played on the return journey to troon on a sunday night on the 5.30 Sailing.There were a lot of young children and young scouts of both sexes and many parents would have been happy to have a relaxing trip while watching a suitable film for this age group even cartoons but what did they get? “The invention of liying” a flop movie with Ricky Gervais . The language was disgusting with swear words and explicit sexual words and feel parents were let down as two hours or more is a long time to keep children amused. So maybe a little thought when selecting movies would not go amiss and adults travelling without children will have a “quieter” trip