Island crossings in Scotland and the south, the routes to Ireland and Northern Ireland, and the Channel and North Sea crossings: crossing time, operator and where to book. A dash means the operator page we read gave no single time.
Facts last checked 1 Nov 2026. Britlens is independent: see our editorial policy.
Book ahead in summer. CalMac strongly advises booking ahead on its bookable routes, and vehicle space is limited on island ferries. Weather can cancel sailings: check the operator’s service status on the day. We give no fares.
To the islands: Scotland, the Isle of Wight, Scilly, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands
To the islands: Scotland, the Isle of Wight, Scilly, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands: crossing time, operator and booking link
Some Channel routes carry vehicles only: DFDS says foot passengers cannot travel on its Dover routes, and Le Shuttle carries vehicles.1,5 See each port on ports and ferries.
For Arran, CalMac says the train from Glasgow Central to Ardrossan Harbour takes about 45 minutes, with a short walk from Ardrossan’s station to the ferry; Troon has a shuttle bus from the station.30
For Lewis, CalMac says there is no train to Ullapool; take the train to Inverness and a bus from there (about 1 hour 30 minutes).45
For Mull, CalMac says the bus from Glasgow to Oban takes just under 3 hours, traffic permitting.50
If you bring a bike as a foot passenger, CalMac asks you to add it when you book.51