United Kingdom
Larne to Cairnryan Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Larne
Northern Ireland
Arrives
Cairnryan
Scotland
P&O FerriesAt a glance
The Larne to Cairnryan ferry takes about 2h–2h 5m, with 6 sailings a day between 04:00 and 23:59. It is operated by P&O Ferries. Fares start from £27.
- First sailing
- 04:00
- Last sailing
- 23:59
- Sailings / day
- 6
- Crossing
- from 2h
Larne to Cairnryan ferry timetable
| Departs | Arrives | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04:00 | — | 2h | P&O Ferries | Daily |
| 08:00 | — | 2h | P&O Ferries | Daily |
| 12:00 | — | 2h | P&O Ferries | Daily |
| 16:00 | — | 2h | P&O Ferries | Daily |
| 20:00 | — | 2h | P&O Ferries | Daily |
| 23:59 | — | 2h 5m | P&O Ferries | Daily |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Larne – Cairnryan crossing
Cairnryan in Scotland is reached from Larne in Northern Ireland via a 21-nautical-mile crossing of the North Channel. P&O Ferries is the sole operator on this route, completing the journey in as little as 2 hours. This crossing represents the shortest distance by sea between Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Sailing Timetable
P&O Ferries provides up to six sailings every day, with a schedule running seven days a week. The timetable includes an early departure at 04:00 and a final crossing at 23:59. The marginal difference in crossing times, with the longest scheduled at 2 hours and 5 minutes, means vessel speed is not a primary factor when selecting a departure.
From the same Scottish port, an alternative route to Northern Ireland is available, terminating in Belfast. The Larne service, however, offers the quickest sea transit to Scotland. Foot passenger fares for this domestic UK crossing start from £27.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Cruise-ferry cabins
- Battery-hybrid ships
- Vehicle & freight decks
- Lounges & dining
Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
Who operates the service?
P&O Ferries runs this crossing.
What time is the first sailing?
First departure is 04:00, last is 23:59.
How many sailings run each day?
6 sailings a day, every day.
How much does it cost to cross?
From around £27 one-way, depending on class.
Do I need a passport for this ferry?
No, it's a domestic crossing within United Kingdom.
How long does the crossing take?
About 2h.
Can I book the return crossing too?
Yes, check the return route for its own times and fares.
What's the fastest crossing option?
The quickest option takes about 2h. Crossing time depends on the operator and vessel — compare sailings from P&O Ferries above.
Can I do this as a day trip?
A day trip is often possible: with a crossing of about 2h and several sailings a day (first 04:00, last 23:59), you can return the same day. Always check the return timetable before you go.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailings run daily, and frequency can change between the summer and winter seasons. The timetable above shows the latest published departures — confirm with the operator for off-season dates.
Can I take a car on this ferry?
Yes — P&O Ferries carries vehicles on this route. Book your car space in advance, especially in peak season, and check the specific sailing for size limits.
Can I take a pet on this ferry?
Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with P&O Ferries, so declare your pet when booking.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 24, 2026.
Operated by
Fares from
£27
Lowest published one-way fare. Final price varies by operator, date and vehicle.
Ports on this route
Larne on the map
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