Table Of Contents

Hey there, fellow travellers!

If you are thinking about heading from Glasgow’s lively streets to Belfast’s warm pubs, historic sites, and stunning coastline, the ferry is one of the most enjoyable ways to travel.

It is scenic, stress-free, and you can take your car, bike, or even your dog along for the ride.

There is no ferry directly from Glasgow city centre, but the main services leave from Cairnryan port in southwest Scotland, an easy drive or coach ride away.

Here at THOUSIF Inc. – UK, we have put together this clear, practical guide to help you plan your journey without any fuss.

We will walk you through getting to the port, the two main operators, typical timetables, and some insider tips.

How To Get From Glasgow To Cairnryan Port

Cairnryan is roughly 80 miles from Glasgow, and there are several straightforward options:

By car: The drive takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours via the A77 and A78. The route is scenic and well-signposted, with secure long-stay parking at both ferry terminals.
By coach: Scottish Citylink runs frequent direct buses from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to the Stena Line terminal at Cairnryan. The trip usually takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Tickets are affordable, and booking online is simple.
Seamless coach + ferry packages: Companies like Hannon Coach offer through-tickets where the same coach takes you from Glasgow, boards the ferry, and drops you right in Belfast city centre. Ideal if you are travelling light.

Arrive at the port at least 45–60 minutes before sailing to allow time for check-in and boarding.

The Two Main Ferry Routes

Two excellent operators serve this popular crossing:

Stena Line – Cairnryan to Belfast (direct) The most convenient choice for most travellers, arriving right in Belfast city centre. Modern superfast ferries make the trip in just 2 hours and 15 minutes. On board, you will find restaurants, cafés, shops, free Wi-Fi, comfortable lounges, and even a cinema on some ships.
P&O Ferries – Cairnryan to Larne This route lands you in Larne, about 25 miles (30–40 minutes by car or bus) north of Belfast. The crossing takes around 2 hours on spacious, comfortable vessels with great cafés, seating areas, and outdoor decks.

Both operators run frequent sailings year-round, with extra services in peak seasons.

Typical Ferry Timetables

Timetables can vary slightly by season, day of the week, or for operational reasons, so always double-check the official operator websites when booking.

Here is what a standard daily schedule usually looks like:

Stena Line: Cairnryan To Belfast (typically 6–8 sailings daily)

Departure From Cairnryan	Arrival In Belfast	Duration	Notes
03:30	05:45	2h 15m	Overnight/early option
07:30	09:45	2h 15m	Morning sailing
11:30	13:45	2h 15m	Midday
15:30	17:45	2h 15m	Afternoon
19:30	21:45	2h 15m	Evening
23:30	01:45 (next day)	2h 15m	Late-night

Extra sailings are often added during busy periods.

P&O Ferries: Cairnryan To Larne (typically 6–7 sailings daily)

Departure From Cairnryan	Arrival In Larne	Duration	Notes
04:00	06:00	2h	Early morning
08:00	10:00	2h	Morning
12:00	14:00	2h	Midday
16:00	18:00	2h	Afternoon
20:00	22:00	2h	Evening
23:59	01:59 (next day)	2h	Late night

Top Tips For A Great Ferry Trip

Book early for the best fares and to secure vehicle space, especially in summer or around holidays.
Check-in deadlines are strict – usually 45 minutes before departure.
Grab a window or deck seat for gorgeous views of the Scottish coast and the Antrim hills as you approach Northern Ireland.
The Irish Sea is generally calm on these short routes, but if you are prone to seasickness, tablets are sold onboard.
Families love the kids’ play areas; pet owners can book pet-friendly cabins or kennels.
Upgrade to a premium lounge for extra comfort, complimentary drinks, and quieter seating – well worth it on busier sailings.

Fact

The Cairnryan crossings are some of the shortest regular ferry routes between Great Britain and Ireland, making a spontaneous weekend trip to Belfast totally doable!