Belfast Ferries

The port of Belfast plays a key role in the ferry network of United Kingdom, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 3 ferry companies, Belfast serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Belfast, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Cairnryan - Belfast connecting Belfast with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Stena Line, Steam Packet, P&O Ferries run regular services from Belfast, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Belfast offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Belfast is well-connected by various transport options, with regular ferry services linking it to multiple ports across the UK. Travelers from England can reach the city via direct rail connections to Belfast from major cities, with the journey from London taking approximately 8 hours including a ferry crossing. The city's ferry terminal is easily accessible from the city center via regular bus services or a short taxi ride. For those arriving by car, ample secure parking is available at the ferry terminal, though booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Coach services also connect Belfast to major cities throughout Ireland and the UK, with convenient drop-offs near the ferry port.

Nestled at the mouth of the River Lagan, Belfast combines rich maritime heritage with contemporary urban energy. This resilient city has transformed from an industrial powerhouse to a cultural hotspot while maintaining its authentic character and warm hospitality. As a key ferry destination in the Irish Sea, Belfast serves as both a fascinating city break and a strategic launching point for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Ireland.

Belfast enjoys a mild maritime climate, with temperatures rarely reaching extremes in either summer or winter. The months between May and September offer the most pleasant weather, with long daylight hours and temperatures typically ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F). August brings the vibrant Belfast Maritime Festival, celebrating the city's seafaring traditions with tall ships and harbor festivities. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide an excellent balance of fair weather and fewer tourists. Ferry services operate year-round, though winter crossings (November-February) may occasionally face disruptions due to rough seas in the Irish Sea.

Belfast serves as an excellent gateway to numerous exciting destinations via its ferry connections. Scotland's coast is within easy reach, with crossings to Cairnryan taking just 2.5 hours and opening up access to Glasgow and the stunning Scottish Highlands. The Isle of Man, with its unique heritage and breathtaking coastal scenery, can be reached in approximately 2 hours 45 minutes, offering visitors a distinctive island experience. Liverpool, with its UNESCO-listed waterfront and vibrant cultural scene, connects to Belfast via a scenic overnight crossing. The Belfast-Dublin route provides a convenient way to explore Ireland's east coast, with the journey showcasing the beautiful coastline along the way.

No visit to Belfast is complete without exploring Titanic Belfast, the world's largest Titanic visitor experience, located on the very slipways where the famous ship was built. The revitalized Cathedral Quarter pulses with energy, housing artisan shops, traditional pubs, and innovative restaurants serving up local delicacies like Ulster fry and fresh seafood from nearby ports. History buffs will appreciate the 19th-century Crumlin Road Gaol and the impressive Belfast Castle, offering panoramic views over the city and Belfast Lough. The waterfront area itself has been transformed in recent years, with pleasant walking paths, public art installations, and the striking Beacon of Hope sculpture marking Belfast's maritime significance.

Belfast's shipbuilding heritage extends far beyond the Titanic – at its peak, Harland & Wolff was the world's largest shipyard, employing over 35,000 people. The iconic yellow Samson and Goliath cranes dominate Belfast's skyline at 106 meters tall and are now recognized as official monuments of the city. Belfast's port handles over 1.5 million passengers annually, making it one of the busiest ferry ports in the UK. The city's name derives from the Irish 'Béal Feirste,' meaning 'mouth of the sandbar,' referencing its crucial position at the entrance to Belfast Lough where the River Lagan meets the sea.