FerryConnect

United Kingdom (Scotland)

Oban → Isle of Colonsay

The ferry from Oban to remote Colonsay, a small Hebridean island of beaches and machair; on Wednesdays and Saturdays the same ship continues south to Islay and Kennacraig, making Colonsay a stepping stone between Mull and Islay.

⏱ 2h 15m – 2h 25m🚢 1 operator📅 At least one sailing most days from Oban in summer; twice-weekly links to Port Askaig (Islay) and Kennacraig🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Oban to Isle of Colonsay ferry at a glance

The ferry from Oban to Isle of Colonsay takes 2h 15m – 2h 25m across the Firth of Lorn, operated by CalMac Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: at least one sailing most days from Oban in summer; twice-weekly links to Port Askaig (Islay) and Kennacraig.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: calmac.co.uk · assets.calmac.co.uk · calmac.co.uk · calmac.co.uk · How we verify

Return crossing: Isle of Colonsay to Oban

CalMac Ferries also sails Isle of Colonsay to Oban, taking 2h 15m – 2h 25m. Evening arrivals on Colonsay turn straight round, reaching Oban after 21:00; the Tuesday boat returns at midday.

Oban to Isle of Colonsay ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Summer 2026: from Oban at 16:20 on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 09:00 on Tuesdays and 16:30 on Sundays; Wednesday and Saturday sailings run via Port Askaig and Kennacraig

Amended timetables around Fèis Ìle (late May), the Tiree Music Festival (July) and Ceòl Cholasa (September).

Published departure times

  • 09:00
  • 16:20
  • 16:30

Return: Evening arrivals on Colonsay turn straight round, reaching Oban after 21:00; the Tuesday boat returns at midday.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official CalMac Ferries timetable →

Source: CalMac Oban–Colonsay summer 2026 timetable. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Oban and Isle of Colonsay

📐 32 Nautical Miles
Oban⇄Isle of Colonsay
⏱ 2h 15m – 2h 25m · 📐 32 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Oban to Isle of Colonsay?

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

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
CalMac Ferries2h 15m – 2h 25mMV Clansman, MV Finlaggan

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

32 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Oban railway station, with trains to Glasgow Queen Street, is 50 metres from the ferry terminal
  • Fuel, a cash machine and a shop are about 100 metres from Colonsay pier; there is no public transport on the island

Tips for the Oban to Isle of Colonsay Crossing

  • Campervans and motorhomes need a confirmed pitch before travelling
  • Check in 30 minutes before departure for vehicles and foot passengers

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from ObanOban → Craignure46m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Also sails from ObanOban → Isle of CollAbout 2h 40m · CalMac FerriesAlso sails from ObanOban → Isle of Tiree3h 20m – 3h 50m · CalMac FerriesAlso sails from ObanOban → Castlebay (Isle of Barra)4h 45m – 7h · CalMac FerriesAlso sails from ObanOban → Isle of LismoreAbout 55m · CalMac FerriesAlso sails from ObanGallanach (Oban) → Isle of KerreraAbout 5m · CalMac Ferries
⚓ Oban Ferry Terminal guide⚓ Colonsay Pier (Scalasaig) guide⛴ All ferries from Oban🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Oban to Isle of Colonsay?
The crossing typically takes 2h 15m – 2h 25m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Oban to Isle of Colonsay ferry sail?
Summer 2026: from Oban at 16:20 on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 09:00 on Tuesdays and 16:30 on Sundays; Wednesday and Saturday sailings run via Port Askaig and Kennacraig. Amended timetables around Fèis Ìle (late May), the Tiree Music Festival (July) and Ceòl Cholasa (September). This is the pattern published in the CalMac Oban–Colonsay summer 2026 timetable (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Oban to Isle of Colonsay?
CalMac 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 Oban to Isle of Colonsay 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 Oban to Isle of Colonsay 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 Oban to Isle of Colonsay 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 Oban from Isle of Colonsay by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 32 nautical miles (roughly 59 km).