FerryConnect

Scotland → Northern Ireland

Cairnryan → Larne

P&O Ferries’ short North Channel crossing from Loch Ryan to Larne on the Antrim coast. It is a good choice if you are heading for the Causeway Coastal Route, Antrim Glens or Giant’s Causeway, avoiding Belfast city traffic.

⏱ 2h🚢 1 operator📅 Several sailings daily in each direction🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Cairnryan to Larne ferry at a glance

The ferry from Cairnryan to Larne takes 2h across the North Channel, operated by P&O Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: several 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 Larne

📐 36 Nautical Miles
Cairnryan⇄Larne
⏱ 2h · 📐 36 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Book direct with the operator

Ready to cross from Cairnryan to Larne?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with P&O Ferries.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
P&O Ferries2hEuropean Causeway, European Highlander

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

36 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Larne Harbour station has trains to Belfast (about 1 hour)
  • The A8 dual carriageway connects Larne to Belfast and the M2
  • The Causeway Coastal Route (A2) starts at Larne

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from CairnryanCairnryan → Belfast2h 15m · Stena LineNearby alternative crossingBelfast → 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🌊 Irish Sea ferries🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Cairnryan to Larne?
The crossing typically takes 2h. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Cairnryan to Larne?
P&O Ferries 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 Larne 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 Larne 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 Larne 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 Larne by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 36 nautical miles (roughly 67 km).