FerryConnect

Scotland → Northern Ireland

Cairnryan → Belfast

The busiest Scotland–Northern Ireland link, crossing the North Channel from Loch Ryan to Belfast Harbour. The port is close to Belfast city centre, handy for both drivers and foot passengers.

⏱ 2h 15m🚢 1 operator📅 Up to six sailings daily in each direction🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Cairnryan to Belfast ferry at a glance

The ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast takes 2h 15m across the North Channel, operated by Stena Line. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: up to six sailings daily in each direction.

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

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Cairnryan and Belfast

📐 44 Nautical Miles
Cairnryan⇄Belfast
⏱ 2h 15m · 📐 44 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Cairnryan to Belfast?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Stena Line2h 15mStena Superfast VII, Stena Superfast VIII

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

44 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Belfast Terminal 4 is about 10 minutes from the city centre by taxi; buses serve the harbour area
  • Cairnryan is reached via the A77 (Glasgow/Ayr) and A75 (Dumfries/Carlisle); the nearest rail station is Stranraer
  • Belfast city centre connects to the M1/M2 and Dublin via the Enterprise train

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from CairnryanCairnryan → Larne2h · P&O FerriesOnward from BelfastBelfast → Liverpool (Birkenhead)8h · Stena LineNearby alternative crossingHolyhead → Dublin3h 15m · Irish Ferries, Stena LineNearby alternative crossingDublin → Holyhead2h 15m – 3h 15m · Irish Ferries, Stena LineMore ferries in United KingdomDover → Calais1h 30m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish FerriesMore ferries in United KingdomOban → Craignure46m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)
⛴ All ferries from Cairnryan⛴ All ferries from Belfast🌊 Irish Sea ferries🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a ferry from Scotland to Belfast?
Yes. Stena Line sails from Cairnryan to Belfast in about 2h 15m. P&O Ferries also sails from Cairnryan to Larne, about 30 km north of Belfast.
How long is the ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast?
The crossing typically takes 2h 15m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Cairnryan to Belfast?
Stena Line operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Cairnryan to Belfast 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 Cairnryan to Belfast 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 Cairnryan to Belfast 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 Cairnryan from Belfast by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 44 nautical miles (roughly 81 km).