FerryConnect

United Kingdom (Northern Ireland)

Strangford → Portaferry

The Department for Infrastructure ferry across the fast-flowing Narrows of Strangford Lough, linking Strangford in Lecale with Portaferry on the Ards Peninsula and saving a 46-mile drive.

⏱ About 8m🚢 1 operator📅 Every 30 minutes each way, every day except Christmas Day🚗 Vehicles accepted

Strangford to Portaferry ferry at a glance

The ferry from Strangford to Portaferry takes About 8m across the Strangford Lough, operated by Strangford Ferry (DfI). Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: every 30 minutes each way, every day except Christmas Day.

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: nidirect.gov.uk · nidirect.gov.uk · nidirect.gov.uk · How we verify

Return crossing: Portaferry to Strangford

Strangford Ferry (DfI) also sails Portaferry to Strangford, taking About 8m. From Portaferry the ferry leaves at quarter past and quarter to the hour.

Strangford to Portaferry ferry timetable & sailing pattern

From Strangford on the hour and half hour: weekdays 07:30–22:30, Saturdays 08:00–23:00, Sundays 09:30–22:30

No service on Christmas Day; Sunday service on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Return: From Portaferry the ferry leaves at quarter past and quarter to the hour.

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

Official Strangford Ferry (DfI) timetable →

Source: nidirect Strangford ferry timetable. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Strangford and Portaferry

📐 0.7 Nautical Miles
Strangford⇄Portaferry
⏱ About 8m · 📐 0.7 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Strangford to Portaferry?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Strangford Ferry (DfI).

Visit Strangford Ferry (DfI)→
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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Strangford Ferry (DfI)8mMV Portaferry II, MV Strangford II

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

0.7 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Free on-street parking is available in Portaferry; limited free off-street parking at Strangford

Tips for the Strangford to Portaferry Crossing

  • Register for free SMS disruption alerts by texting FERRY to 07984 406004
  • Groups of more than 10 vehicles should contact the terminal in advance

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Strangford to Portaferry?
The crossing typically takes About 8m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Strangford to Portaferry ferry sail?
From Strangford on the hour and half hour: weekdays 07:30–22:30, Saturdays 08:00–23:00, Sundays 09:30–22:30. No service on Christmas Day; Sunday service on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. This is the pattern published in the nidirect Strangford ferry timetable (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Strangford to Portaferry?
Strangford Ferry (DfI) operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Strangford to Portaferry 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 Strangford to Portaferry 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 Strangford to Portaferry ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.