FerryConnect

Ireland / Northern Ireland

Ballycastle → Rathlin Island

Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island ferry. Connects the scenic Antrim coast at Ballycastle to Church Bay, renowned for its massive seabird colonies and upside-down lighthouse.

⏱ 25m – 40m🚢 1 operator📅 Up to 10 sailings daily🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
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Ballycastle to Rathlin Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island takes 25m – 40m across the Sea of the Moyle, operated by Rathlin Island Ferry. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: up to 10 sailings daily.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Return crossing: Rathlin Island to Ballycastle

Rathlin Island Ferry also sails Rathlin Island to Ballycastle, taking 25m – 40m.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island

📐 6 Nautical Miles
Ballycastle⇄Rathlin Island
⏱ 25m – 40m · 📐 6 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ All operators, one booking

Ready to cross from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island?

Book your crossing with Direct Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Rathlin Island Ferry25m (Fastcraft) / 40mKintra II, Spirit of Rathlin

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

6 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Puffin bus and bicycle hire operate from Church Bay on Rathlin
  • Ulsterbus services link Ballycastle to Coleraine and Belfast
  • Short walk to Ballycastle town centre and seafront

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingMagheroarty (Donegal) → Tory IslandAbout 45m · Tory FerryNearby alternative crossingBurtonport (Donegal) → Arranmore IslandAbout 15m · The Arranmore FerryNearby alternative crossingDublin → DouglasAbout 2h 55m · Isle of Man Steam PacketNearby alternative crossingTayinloan (Kintyre) → Isle of GighaAbout 20m · CalMac FerriesNearby alternative crossingKennacraig → Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)2h – 2h 20m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingClaonaig (Kintyre) → Lochranza (Isle of Arran)About 30m · CalMac Ferries
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Rathlin Island ferry take?
The fast catamaran takes just 25 minutes; the roll-on/roll-off vessel takes 40 minutes.
Which ferry companies sail from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island?
Rathlin Island Ferry operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Ballycastle to Rathlin Island ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Ballycastle to Rathlin Island ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Ballycastle to Rathlin Island ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Ballycastle from Rathlin Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 6 nautical miles (roughly 11 km).