Last Updated on the 3rd of December, 2025
Where can you walk out on a deck, plop yourself down on a bench, soak in the passing scenery and keep an eye out for birds and wildlife, all while travelling between two countries?
I find that one of the best ways to savour the journey as much as the destination is to embark on a no-fly vacation.
Whilst living in the northwest of Ireland provides many benefits, including an abundance of stunning beaches and coastline, hearty cuisine, and good craic with the locals, it is not the most convenient location to be based when it comes to travelling to Europe or internationally.
If we want to go on a vacation without boarding a plane, it can be, let’s say, a logistical challenge. But it doesn’t mean we have to limit ourselves to a staycation.
Luckily for us, one of the easiest ways to take a no-fly holiday is to book an escape with Stenaline, which provides easy ferry crossings to Scotland, Wales and England.
If you are ready to think and travel a little differently, here’s everything you need to know about a ferry crossing for your next trip.
Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary For A Spellbinding 5 Days In Scotland
Why We Prefer the Ferry to Flying
As frequent visitors to Scotland, we’ve travelled by the ferry many times.
We often use the ferry as I find it offers a very comfortable and relaxed way to cross the Irish Sea, flexibility with extra luggage, as well as the option of freedom of movement and the ability to be outdoors.
I also love the opportunity to relax in comfortable lounges, enjoy a warm meal, and take in the sea views from panoramic windows.
You know how sometimes people travel by train to save money or if they have a fear of flying, and how some romanticise it because you get to see more of the land you’re passing by?
I feel the same way about being on a ferry, as there’s just something magical about being on a boat while seeing the world around you.
Once we arrive in Cairnryan, we have easy access to road networks connecting us to various destinations in Scotland and beyond, making this ferry route an enjoyable as well as a practical choice.
The Ferry Crossing
A ferry crossing is something you might want to put on your list if you are planning to visit both Northern Ireland and Scotland, as it is a rewarding way to arrive in the country and see the incredible coastal views, especially for the last leg of the journey, where the ferry sails through Loch Ryan.
The journey between Belfast Port and Loch Ryan Port, a small village in Dumfries and Galloway in western Scotland, is provided by the Swedish shipping company Stena Line, which is one of the largest ferry operators in the world.
Two ferries that sail on the Belfast Cairnryan route are the Stena Superfast VII and the Stena Superfast VIII, which were built in 2001.
Each of their ferries can accommodate up to 1200 passengers and 660 cars.
The ferries depart from Belfast seven days and make the crossing 40 times every week, and you can travel as a foot passenger or with a vehicle.
- How long does it take to cross the sea? | 2 hours 15 minutes one way. You’ll have to include some additional time for check-ins and ticketing
Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday In Scotland
How Much is a Belfast to Cairnryan Ferry Ticket Price
Belfast to Cairnryan ticket prices are affordable and can often be cheaper than flying, with tickets starting at £37 for a foot passenger if booked in advance.
There’s also an option to pay extra for a flexi ticket, which enables you to cancel and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the sailing or upgrade to ‘premium’ for access to Stena Plus Lounge and express boarding/disembarking.
We travelled in the height of the summer and for a return ticket, which included a family-size car, four people and an unlimited amount of luggage – we paid less than 500 euros, which was much cheaper than flying to Scotland and renting a car there.
*Travel tip: book early. The prices for the ferries rise sharply as the boats fill up. Especially during peak season, the ferries and parking decks fill up quickly. Therefore, book far in advance and avoid high costs.
- How much does the ferry ride cost | Foot Passenger: £37, Bicycle: £47, Motorcycle: £51, Small car: from £135
Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once
The Scenic Road To Glasgow
Once you disembark at Loch Ryan Port, located 80 miles southwest of Glasgow, Scotland is yours to explore.
Most travellers would follow the scenic two-hour drive along the rugged coastline to Scotland’s second-largest city, Glasgow.
Of course, you can also pick between exploring the capital of Edinburgh or discovering the single malt distilleries in the Scottish islands of Jura and Islay.
You can also take in crumbling Scottish castles, or follow a James Bond trail to Glen Etive.
But don’t get too comfortable in your seat and make sure you have your camera ready, as for about a third of the route, the road from Cairnryan to Glasgow follows right along the waterfront, offering many wonderful views out across the Firth of Clyde towards the Kintyre Peninsula.
- Cairnryan Port Operating Hours – Monday to Sunday: 6am to 10pm
- Address – Station Loch Ryan Port, Cairnryan – Belfast, Cairnryan, Stranraer DG9 8RG
Read More: Your Guide To Some Of Edinburgh’s Best Neighbourhoods
Things To See and Do Along The Route
If you are travelling by car, it takes around two hours to reach Glasgow from the Cairnryan Port.
While the drive itself is fairly short, there are a good few wonderful places where you can stop and stretch your legs.
Some of our personal favourite stop-off points you could use to break up the journey are:
- Girvan | located on the Ayrshire coast, Girvan is a lovely town with the Stumpy Tower as its main attraction. There’s also Girvan’s beach, which, on a clear day, offers stunning views of the island of Ailsa Craig.
- Ayr | is best known for its long esplanade and sandy beach, which offers incredible views over the Firth of Clyde. Ayr is a popular seaside getaway and an unexpected site for culture.
- Kilmarnock | boasts the largest monument to poet Robert Burns in Scotland as well as a wide range of independent niche shops. Kilmarnock is a great place to visit.
- Alloway | Why not visit Alloway, a wonderful town located on the River Doon, where Ayrshire’s greatest son, Robert Burns, was born in the house which is now known as Burns Cottage?
Read More: 10 Incredible Attractions and Places You Have to Visit In Glasgow, Scotland
Advantages of Travelling by Stena Line Ferry
Not only is crossing the Irish Sea by ferry a relaxing and interesting way to travel between the two countries it also has many advantages.
- Many people have a fear of flying, and ferries offer a more enjoyable experience
- Fewer additional charges and taxes compared to air travel
- You can bring your own vehicle ( a campervan, car, motorbike or a bike).
- You can bring your pet | just follow the rules (e.g. carry a crate) and have your furry friend with you.
- You can relax | watch a movie in an onboard cinema, do some work if necessary, book a spa or let the waves swing you gently until you fall asleep.
- You can take as much luggage as you want (for those travelling by car). Foot passengers are allowed 2 pieces of luggage and a handbag.
Read More: A Short Guide To The Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland
Onboard Facilities on Stenaline Ferries
If you don’t mind sacrificing a few hours for added comfort, travelling by ferry could be the best option for you, as they are known for offering a variety of comfortable accommodations and facilities.
The ferries are extremely well-appointed, ensuring that your journey is well catered for.
So, instead of simply awaiting the destination in a cramped seat, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the journey.
- There’s the Living Room TV and magazine space, where you can catch up on the latest news
- Food and beverage services, including a Tate restaurant, cafeteria and bar (Sky Bar).
- There’s also a cinema with free movies
- Children’s play area and arcade games
- The POD Lounge
- Pure Nordic Spa.
- Duty-free’ shopping
Read More: Top 11 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul
Travelling As A Foot Passenger
Travelling without a car is easy and affordable thanks to the ScotRail train network and the inter-city bus services run by Citylink and Megabus.
You can book your tickets with the Hannon bus company, which is the only company providing direct service between Belfast and Glasgow.
The whole trip from departure in Belfast until you reach Glasgow is slightly over six hours and costs around 44 GBP for a one-way trip.
Another option for foot passengers is by “Sail and Rail” which follows the same route from Belfast to Cairnryan, only the connecting bus will bring you to the convenient train lines and onward travel hub at Ayr.
Read More: Your Guide To Some Of Edinburgh’s Best Neighbourhoods
Travelling from Belfast Port to Glasgow, Scotland by Bus
The quickest and cheapest way for foot passengers to cross the sea from Belfast to Scotland is by bus.
Buses are equipped with WiFi, tickets cost 44 pounds sterling one way per person and offer a comfortable journey from one city to another.
As the journey is a through-coach service, it means that the bus will also board the ferry for the crossing with initial pick up from Belfast’s newly built Grand Central Station.
With departures and arrival points right in the heart of both cities and with no baggage charges (you can bring up to 2 full-size 23kg suitcases FREE per passenger), it’s a fantastic way to cross the sea.
- Make sure you arrive at the departure point in Grand Central Station at least 15 minutes before to find the bus and to allow for smooth boarding.
*Good To Know – under 3’s travel free with an accompanying adult
Read More: 11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know
“Sail and Rail” with Stena Line
Another option for foot passengers is to travel via the “Rail and Sail” service, which combines a train and ferry crossing in one trip.
The journey would be as follows: Belfast to Cairnryan by ferry, Cairnryan to Ayr by bus, and from Ayr to Glasgow by train.
It’s a comfortable and cost-effective way to travel from Belfast to Scotland without flying. And it’s perfect for those who just don’t like travelling by bus long distances.
It is also a bit more adventurous as you get to travel independently compared to the journey via bus, with all three parts of the journey being included in the price of the Sail and Rail tickets.
The journey time from Cairnryan Port to the charming Scottish coastal town of Ayr by bus is just over 1 hour, and from there, you can get a train to Glasgow.
Read More: 7 Days Scotland West Coast Road Trip: Glencoe To The Isle Of Skye
About Belfast Port
Belfast Port is one of the busiest ports in Northern Ireland, serving as the primary gateway for passengers travelling across the Irish Sea.
The port connects Northern Ireland with Cairnryan in Scotland and Liverpool in England, making it a convenient starting point for travellers from all over the UK and beyond.
With modern facilities designed for comfort and convenience, Belfast Port offers essential amenities, including waiting lounges, restrooms, cafes, and parking options.
It is located just a few miles from Belfast’s lively city centre, so you can explore Belfast’s rich cultural and historical offerings, such as the Titanic Quarter and the lively Cathedral Quarter.
Belfast Port’s combination of accessibility, efficiency, and close proximity to the city makes it an ideal gateway for journeys across the Irish Sea.
Read More: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Belfast in Northern Ireland for the First Time
About Cairnryan Port
Located on the south coast of Scotland, Cairnryan has two ports, both situated close to the town of Stranraer in the Dumfries and Galloway area, and serve as a vital link to Northern Ireland.
- The Loch Ryan Port is operated by Stena Line, linking Cairnryan to the port of Belfast
- The Cairnryan Port is operated by P&O Ferries, connecting the village with the port of Larne
The Loch Ryan ferry terminal was built in 2011 and features a range of modern amenities to accommodate travellers, including a café, departure lounge, baby changing facilities, and accessible toilets.
Passengers also have access to free Wi-Fi and to a large parking lot that is available at the terminal building for both short and long stays.
Read More: 10 Incredible Attractions and Places You Have to Visit In Glasgow, Scotland
Belfast to Scotland ferry FAQs
What’s the distance between Belfast and Cairnryan?
The distance from Belfast to Cairnryan is just 62 miles, and the ferry crosses the Irish Sea in 2 hours and 15 minutes
Where to purchase ferry tickets
You can book a ferry ride by visiting the Stena Line website
Is the ferry ride choppy?
We’ve taken the ferry on countless occasions over the years and never experienced any motion issues. The ferries are very large, and the waters are quite sheltered.
Do ferries get cancelled?
Occasionally, high winds and storms do occur. If it’s unsafe, Stenaline ferries might cancel a sailing until weather conditions get better.
Do you need a passport for the Cairnryan to Belfast ferry?
British citizens don’t need a passport to travel from Northern Ireland to Scotland as both are part of the UK. Foreign nationals will need a visa for the UK, which will cover both.
Where is the Belfast Ferry Port (Stena)?
Address: Victoria Terminal, 2 W Bank Rd, Belfast BT3 9JN
Read More: Belfast Bucket List: The 10 Best Things To Do In The City
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Now, over to you!
Have you been on a ferry ride between Scotland and Northern Ireland? Let us know in the comments!
Let us know if you are planning a visit to Scotland and have travel-related questions!
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OUR CROSSINGS 
Great post! I have done free trip a few times and loved it but never appreciated that you’re actually travelling from one country to another by sea, that’s pretty cool.
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I’m glad to hear you have also travelled this route! You know, I always get excited about catching a ferry from Belfast to Scotland, because we always include a few extra hours to wander around Northern Ireland’s capital before setting sail. I just love how leaving the city by the ferry provides a unique and more dramatic viewpoint than seeing it from land. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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No worries, thanks Aiva. I used to love having a cheeky McDonalds on the Stena HSS ferry!
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I’ve had way too many cheeky meals and rinks while travelling by the ferry! Vacation is usually a time away from the everyday grind, and with that sometimes comes eating in ways not consistent with how you eat at home
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*this trip. Not free haha.
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Great post, I’m a fan of ferry travel too. I haven’t used the Cairnryan route but sailed between Liverpool-Belfast a few times when we lived in NI and always had a good experience with Stena Line. I love that they are dog friendly too.
Did you see the recent story about the delayed sailing? The ferry couldn’t dock in Cairnryan due to weather issues so Stena allowed all dogs to sit with their owners in public areas and provided sausages. Very sweet!
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Yes, I did see it. Apparently, it took the crew three attempts to dock successfully due to high winds. I’ve never travelled between the islands by ferry in winter because the sea can be so rough. The Liverpool-Belfast ferry route sounds like a great route, too. Our second favourite is the Dublin to Holyhead route because it gives us access to both Northern Wales and some of England’s largest cities and most beautiful National Parks. Sorry for the late reply. The kids had a week off from school, and we travelled to Scotland for a much-needed break. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Love traveling by ferry. Thanks for sharing your adventure.
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I am glad to hear that you love travelling by ferry, too! It is certainly less stressful than flying. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a wonderful, practical idea to do this by ferry, Aiva! The views in Wemyss Bay look lovely. I’ve never been here despite living in Scotland, but would love to see it. The onboard facilities on Stenaline ferries sounds very good indeed, especially if you have kids in tow, like me, who have a tendency to get bored quickly! I haven’t been to Ayr in ages, but loved the views there. I must go again sometime! Thanks for sharing this helpful and inspiring post! 🌊🐚💜
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Thank you kindly. I am glad to hear that you loved the views of Wemyss Bay. If you ever find yourself in this corner of Scotland, then you definately have to check out the Wemyss Bay train station, as it is widely considered beautiful and is often called the most beautiful station in the UK due to its stunning Victorian glass and iron architecture.
I find that Stena Line provides a decent range of onboard entertainment for passengers, including free movies, play areas for children, and interactive family hubs with video games and digital screens. I know that some Stena Line routes, such as the Rosslare-Cherbourg, even feature live Irish entertainers during the summer months. How cool is that!
Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 I hope you had a wonderful Halloween season. We were in Edinburgh for the whole week and were blown away by all the crafty decorations and the wide range of activities all around the city. Aiva xx
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What a comprehensive guide. Thank you!
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Thank you kindly. I love travelling by ferries because they tend to bypass the stress of airport security lines and cramped seating, making the journey more pleasant, especially with children. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Great information for taking this ferry Aiva. We’ve taken a few and as long as the water isn’t too rough, I usually prefer it too. Maggie
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I am glad to hear that you love travelling by the ferry too, dear Maggie. You can’t really beat the relaxed and scenic experience that allows for freedom of movement and connection with nature and fellow passengers, often at a lower cost and with less stress than flying. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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You are preaching to the choir on this one Aiva. Ferry travel is travel at a slower pace and being able to take your car with you is the bonus. Even the driver gets to sightsee. Have a great day. Allan
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While the Belfast – Scotland ferry route isn’t as scenic as the one you always get to enjoy when travelling to Vancouver Island, the journey itself is still a very enjoyable part of the vacation, with opportunities to move around freely, enjoy fresh sea air, and sometimes even bring vehicles, pets, and luggage with greater ease than with air travel. Sorry for the rather late reply, Allan. The girls were off for a week, and we were in Scotland, enjoying the colourful autumn and plenty of Halloween activities to keep the kids busy. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Lovely that you live conveniently near Scotland, thereby meriting a mere ferry trip over. I think the ferry does save a lot of time compared with a plane, especially given it’s such a short distance from where you live. Thanks for sharing your love for ferry trips, Aiva!
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Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, dear Rebecca. I find that when you travel by ferry, the trip becomes an integral part of the vacation rather than just a means to an end. It’s a chance to relax and disconnect from daily life. Not to mention that you can easily walk around the ship, stretch your legs, and go out on deck, which is not an option on a plane. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Good information, Aiva xx
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Thanks so much, dear Jo. It is a truly wonderful and relaxing way to travel, where you can sit back, enjoy the fresh sea air, watch the sun set, and read a book. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I much prefer a ferry to a plane because you aren’t so confined. I’m spoiled being so close to so many different airports. You sure have been to some beautiful places by ferry!
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I prefer travelling by the ferry to the plane, too, dear Lyssy. For me, the holiday starts as soon as we drive onto a ferry. There’s something about being on water that makes you feel like you are on holiday. Once you’re on board, you can get a glass of wine, find a seat overlooking the sea and take in the views. Many ferries also have VIP lounges, where you can relax in a private environment. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thanks, for the wonderful travel advice!
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Thank you kindly. With water all around you, you have a whole ship to explore. Most have shops, restaurants and play areas for children – and some even have swimming pools, spas, boutiques and cinemas! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Wonderful post, Aiva! I love traveling by ferry, it’s invigorating. There’s an extensive ferry system in our neighboring state of Washington which we have enjoyed many times over the years. Your photo of the cobblestone bridge is stunning!
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I am glad to hear that you also love travelling by ferry. I find that travelling by ferry is a good idea if you prefer a more relaxed and adventurous way to travel, especially for those with pets or a lot of luggage. I love it because it offers unique scenery and the freedom to move around. You made me curious about Washington’s ferry system, and I had to look it up. It is quite obvious that it offers a front-row seat to the state’s most breathtaking natural scenery, and now I have no choice but to put a ferry ride to the San Juan Islands on my travel wish list. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Gorgeous photos and excellent detailed information, Aiva! I also prefer a ferry crossing to flying as it’s so much more relaxed.
I really must return to Scotland, cheers, Nilla x
My first comment didn’t go through, so I’m hoping this one does.
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Thank you kindly 🙂 A journey by the sea is as good as it gets because you can easily stroll the decks, find a comfy chair, or curl up with a good book and enjoy the calm surroundings as you cruise the open waters. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Very convenient and a pleasant way to travel. The children must enjoy it all.
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Our girls are always excited about watching the latest movies in onboard cinemas. It is perfect for a family movie night while we cross the seas. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Sounds like a lovely trip and hope to do it sometime. We took the ferry from Holyhead in Wales to Dublin earlier this year and really enjoyed it. We eventually made our way to Belfast via the train, but ended up flying to Edinburgh.
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I love your itinerary through the British Isles. Given the many ferry routes and short plane rides between the two islands, it is so easy to come up with a super exciting UK and Ireland itinerary that can range from a fast-paced 7-day trip focusing on capitals to a more extensive 20-day journey that includes more countryside and diverse regions. The Dublin to Holyhead route is one of my favourites as it gives access to so many wonderful parts of the country. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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This is such a great option, especially if you’re looking to bring your own car and./or campervan. Why fly and rent a car when you can just bring yours along and not worry about damaging (or paying for) a rental? I like the idea of the Sail & Rail option, too.
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Yes, taking your car on a ferry is a good idea, especially for long trips, because it offers the flexibility of your own vehicle, allows for more luggage, and can be more cost-effective than flying and hiring a car. I love that I can pack as much luggage as I want, bring surfboards and bikes and can also purchase whatever I desire while on vacation without worrying whether it’s gonna fit in a suitcase. If you travel from Ireland to France by ferry, you can bring back up to 90 litres of wine without paying extra tax! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I love travelling by boat and, like you said, it’s nice to be able to bring your own car and more luggage. This looks like a lovely journey!
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I find that travelling by ferry is very convenient as you can pack as much luggage as you like, and bringing your car on board means that you have the opportunity to visit several amazing destinations during your trip. It also means that you can forget the rush and confined spaces that come with travelling by air and start your holiday as soon as you step onto the ferry. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Travelling by ferry is such a relaxing way to travel. Much like train travel (which I love) it allows you to slow down and really savour the journey. And taking your own vehicle is such a great option. I’d love to get back to Scotland one day. Wonderfully informative post Aiva, you’ve fuelled my Scottish wanderlust! xx
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I am glad to hear that I’ve fuelled your Scottish wanderlust, dear Miriam. You know, travelling by ferry is a truly relaxing way to reach your holiday destination as you can spend your time on board sitting back and relaxing, shopping for treats and gifts, or enjoying a delicious meal as you admire the sea views. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I love no-fly vacations, especially now that we have a little one. Travelling by ferry sounds like a better experience and way less stressful than flying. And I like that you don’t have to limit how much you take, except if you’re travelling by foot.
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That’s so true, Linda. No-fly vacations are great for families because they eliminate the stress of flying with kids, reduce travel time, and can be more budget-friendly. With the ferry, we also have the luxury of packing everything we could possibly need for the holiday, and lots of things we don’t need at all. We used to bring our own camping cooker, corkscrew, crackers, granola, olive oil, wine glasses and more books than you could ever hope to read while holidaying with small kids. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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What a great way to travel- it makes it feel like an experience in itself instead of just transportation from here to there
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That’s so true, dear Meg. With plenty of space to walk around, entertainment options, comfortable seating and stunning sea views, I always feel refreshed and relaxed when I reach my destination. Plus, you can pack as much as you like when you travel by ferry; you can even bring your bike, your skis, and your dog! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I agree with you, taking the ferry can be fun, while also giving you the opportunity to admire the shorelines from a distance. Our last ferry trip was last year, in northern Ontario, and it was kind of bumpy – it wasn’t a very pleasant trip, but just for me😍
Have a lovely day, Aiva! xx
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There’s just something alluring about passing the time unwinding in a comfortable chair with a drink or something delicious to eat as you watch the sea roll by.
Bumpy ferry rides are no fun, that’s for sure, and that’s why I’ve never been tempted to cross the Irish Sea in wintertime because the seas can be so rough in winter due to higher winds and rougher seas, and sailings are more likely to be disrupted.
While modern ferries are stable, some crossings can be very rocky, especially on smaller or faster vessels. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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From Ireland, I took the ferry from Dublin, Dun Laoghaire and Rosslare whenever a car was involved in the journey. It goes without saying that ferry services are essential from an island.
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That’s so true! Ferries provide a convenient and enjoyable way for people to travel, particularly for those with families or lots of luggage, offering an alternative to air travel. I’ve travelled both from Dublin and Rosslare, but never from Dun Laoghaire port. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I have many happy memories of traveling on ferries between Ireland and Scotland. Teddy and I have both been on some rough crossings but neither of us gets seasick. I am sure the modern ferries are even better stabilized that the old ones.
There is something very calming about just relaxing on a ship and smelling the sea air. Happy Sunday, Aiva! 💌
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I am glad to hear that, my dear Kerry! I can only attest that ferry travel can indeed create many amazing memories due to the unique experience of moving across water, which allows for unique activities and a different way of experiencing a journey. I find that the journey itself can be a vacation. You can move around freely, relax on deck, or enjoy food and drinks at onboard cafes or restaurants, which can be more relaxing than other travel options. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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“Craic.” I learned a new word today 🙂 This ferry ride sounds like an experience unto itself. A spa? Sign me up! I’m glad there are still options for travel beyond simply airplanes. I’ve enjoyed my experiences taking ferries in Croatia. I enjoy being able to walk around, take in the fresh air, and see the sights as they unfold.
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I am glad to hear that you learned a new word! “Craic” is a fun word to learn because it is a versatile Irish slang term for fun, good times, and enjoyable conversation. I find that the fresh sea air, the sound of the waves, and the changing views create a full sensory experience that can be very memorable. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Yes, We have been on that ferry…. it was an enjoyable way to get from Scotland to Belfast. It was pretty windy, so didn’t spend much time on the decks, but there was a live band on board to help past the time. Nice post, Aiva.
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Thank you kindly 🙂 I am delighted to hear you travelled between Belfast and Scotland by ferry too. It’s a very convenient way to travel, especially if you bring your car because the journey is often smooth and efficient, with fast boarding and disembarkation processes that get you on the road quickly. We also had our fair share of windy crossings, but thankfully, there are premium lounges that provide a comfortable place to relax. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Travel by ferry is a fantastic idea. I’ve only traveled that way a handful of times, but I enjoy it. There is even a small ferry in a town in Wisconsin with a ferry with ice cream stands on both sides. Quite popular with young and old alike. I love your family photo of the first ferry, so much excitement.
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I also find that travelling by ferry is a fantastic idea, dear Rebecca. It is less stressful than flying, and you can easily move about without the strict security procedures and confinement of an airport or aeroplane. Enjoying the views from the deck, whether it’s watching the sunset or the open sea, is a key part of the experience that I find magical. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Yes, it is travel on a more human scale and speed. The wind off the water is bracing and refreshing.
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‘Been a -very- long time since I last took a ferry.
But it does give me ideas… for future trips.
Thanks Aiva.
Happy weekend.
🤗
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While we can easily catch a 50-minute flight to Scotland from the nearby Nock Airport, we almost always choose to travel from Belfast by ferry for the experience and convenience. As avid campers and surfers, we can bring the car and fill it up with all the equipment that we need for the road trip, which is ideal for trips that require a lot of gear or that involve exploring multiple locations. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Wow, sounds like a lot of fun.
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Travelling by ferry is indeed a fun experience. Ferries allow you to move around, stretch your legs, and get fresh air, unlike being confined to a plane seat. You can walk the decks, find a quiet spot to read, or even book a cabin for a more private and comfortable journey. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Thanks and you too 😊
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You are welcome 😊 xx
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One of the wonderful things about travel in Europe is the ease of travelling from country to country without driving or flying. This ferry sounds like the perfect choice from where you are. I enjoyed making the trip with you. Ayr looks like a treasure.
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That’s so true, Ruth. Also, most European countries are part of the Schengen Area, which allows for passport-free travel between member countries, and a large network of trains connects cities, sometimes making rail travel faster than air travel on shorter routes. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed the post about our ferry trip to Scotland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I was living and teaching in Prague when the Schengen agreement was established. It has made European travel so much easier, but was a challenge for those of us non-Europeans living there at the time!
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Yes, that’s so true – ever since the Schengen agreement, travel is so much easier, allowing people to cross borders freely for work, tourism, or study. Did you have to apply for a residence permit once the Schengen agreement was established? Nevertheless, the challenges, I bet you had a wonderful time living and teaching in Prague. xx
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I had a work visa, which was acceptable at the time. Some of the rules for non-Europeans may have changed since then.
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