Ferry from Cairnryan to Larne

Cairnryan Guide

Cairnryan is a Scottish port village located in Dumfries and Galloway, lying on the eastern shore of Loch Ryan. Important in maritime history, Cairnryan has two ferry terminals connecting Scotland to Northern Ireland. The first opened in 1973, originally operated by Townsend Thoresen and now by P&O Ferries, links Scotland with the port of Larne. The second Cairnryan ferry terminal is located at Old House Point, operated by Stena Line, linking to the Port of Belfast.

The village can trace its origins back to 1701 when it was established for workers employed on the Lochryan Estate which features a deer park and bowling green. Facilities in Cairnryan include the Lochryan Hotel, a few guest houses and bed and breakfast establishments, a caravan site built on the site of an old war campsite, a village shop and The Merchant's House Restaurant.

Larne Guide

Larne is a town and seaport located in Country Antrim in Northern Ireland and lies on the western side of a narrow inlet linking Larne Lough to the sea. The port of Larne regular receives ferries from Cairnryan of Scotland, operated by P&O Irish Sea.

The area around the town has been inhabited for over a thousand years and is believed to have been one of the earliest inhabited areas in Ireland, with the settlers thought to have arrived from Scotland via the North Channel.

In Larne’s slightly more recent history, the Scots-Irish Bissett family built Olderfleet Castle at Curran Point in the 13th century and in 1315 Edward the Bruce of Scotland, who was Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland's brother, arrived in Larne with his army on his way to conquering Ireland.

Which is better Cairnryan or Larne?

Cairnryan and Larne are both ports located on the Irish Sea, serving as gateways between Scotland and Northern Ireland. The choice between the two depends on several factors.

Cairnryan offers more ferry options and is well-connected to major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It has two ferry terminals, operated by P&O Ferries and Stena Line, providing frequent sailings to Belfast and Larne. The journey from Cairnryan to Belfast takes around 2 hours, while the journey to Larne takes approximately 1 hour. Larne, on the other hand, is closer to Belfast, making it a convenient choice if your destination is in or around the capital city of Northern Ireland. The port in Larne is operated by P&O Ferries, offering services to Cairnryan. The crossing from Larne to Cairnryan takes about 1 hour.

In terms of facilities, both ports have amenities such as parking, waiting areas, cafes, and restrooms. However, Cairnryan has a wider range of facilities due to its larger size and higher passenger volume.

Overall, the choice between Cairnryan and Larne depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize more ferry options and easy access to Glasgow or Edinburgh, Cairnryan is a better choice. However, if you are heading to Belfast or prefer a shorter journey from Larne, then that port is the more suitable option.

How many days in Larne is enough?

The number of days needed to explore Larne depends on individual preferences and the desired activities. Larne, a coastal town in Northern Ireland, offers a range of attractions and natural beauty.

For a quick visit, one or two days can be sufficient to enjoy the main highlights. Visitors can explore the picturesque Antrim Coast Road, which offers stunning views of the coastline. They can also visit attractions like the Larne Museum and Arts Centre, where they can learn about the town's history and culture.

However, those looking to delve deeper into Larne's offerings may want to spend more time. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Gleno Waterfall, hike in the scenic Glenarm Forest Park, or visit the Sallagh Braes, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding area. Additionally, a day trip to the nearby Giant's Causeway or Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge can enhance the Larne experience. These iconic attractions are within driving distance and offer unique natural wonders. Ultimately, it is recommended to spend at least three to four days in Larne to fully appreciate its beauty, explore the surrounding areas, and immerse oneself in its rich history and culture.