FerryConnect

Scotland

Kennacraig → Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)

The ferry to Islay, the whisky island, home to Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg and many more distilleries. Sailings alternate between Port Ellen in the south and Port Askaig, which is also the jumping-off point for Jura.

⏱ 2h – 2h 20m🚢 1 operator📅 Several sailings daily, alternating between Port Askaig and Port Ellen🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen) takes 2h – 2h 20m across the Sound of Jura, operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac). Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: several sailings daily, alternating between Port Askaig and Port Ellen.

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 Kennacraig and Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)

📐 25 Nautical Miles
Kennacraig⇄Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)
⏱ 2h – 2h 20m · 📐 25 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)?

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

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)2h – 2h 20mCalMac Ro-Pax ferry

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

25 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Kennacraig is on the Kintyre peninsula, about 3 hours by road or Citylink coach from Glasgow
  • Port Askaig has a small ferry across the Sound of Islay to Jura

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingWemyss Bay → Rothesay (Isle of Bute)About 35m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingOban → Craignure46m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingMallaig → Armadale (Isle of Skye)30m – 45m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingUig (Isle of Skye) → Tarbert (Isle of Harris)About 1h 40m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingHeysham → Douglas (Isle of Man)3h 30m – 3h 45m · Isle of Man Steam PacketNearby alternative crossingUllapool → Stornoway (Isle of Lewis)About 2h 45m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)?
The crossing typically takes 2h – 2h 20m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen)?
Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen) 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 Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen) 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 Kennacraig to Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen) 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 Kennacraig from Islay (Port Askaig / Port Ellen) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 25 nautical miles (roughly 46 km).