Getting to Rathlin Island

Getting to Rathlin Island

Rathlin Island is accessible by one route only: the passenger ferry from Ballycastle Harbour on the North Antrim coast. There are no bridges, no airports, and no car ferries for visitors — which is, of course, a large part of what makes Rathlin so special. The six-mile sea crossing takes approximately 45 minutes and is itself a highlight of the trip, with views of the Antrim coast, the Scottish islands, and regular sightings of gannets, guillemots and dolphins.

The Ferry to Rathlin Island

The ferry service between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island’s Church Bay is operated by Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd. The ferry runs year-round, with significantly more crossings during the summer visitor season (April to September). Services can be cancelled or delayed in poor weather conditions — always check conditions before travelling, particularly outside summer.

Key Ferry Information

  • Departure point: Ballycastle Harbour, County Antrim
  • Arrival point: Church Bay, Rathlin Island
  • Journey time: Approximately 45 minutes
  • Booking: Pre-booking is strongly recommended in summer — ferries sell out
  • Cars: Visitors cannot bring cars to Rathlin Island. Parking is available at Ballycastle Harbour (pay and display)
  • Dogs: Dogs are welcome on the ferry but must be kept on a lead at all times on the island

Getting to Ballycastle

Ballycastle is located on the North Antrim coast and is well served by road from Belfast and Dublin.

By Car

  • From Belfast: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes via the A26 and A44 (around 56 miles)
  • From Dublin: approximately 3 hours via the M1 and A1 (around 160 miles)
  • From Derry/Londonderry: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes via the A2 coastal route

By Bus

Translink Ulsterbus operates services to Ballycastle from Belfast and other towns. Check the Translink website for current timetables. Note that bus services to Ballycastle are less frequent than driving, so plan ahead.

Getting Around Rathlin Island

Once on the island, there are no private cars for visitors. Getting around is part of the Rathlin experience:

  • Walking: The island is walkable, though the distance from Church Bay to the West Light Seabird Centre is around 4 miles each way
  • cycling: bike hire is available at the harbour — recommended for those wanting to cover more ground
  • The puffin Bus: A seasonal minibus that meets each ferry and runs to the RSPB Seabird Centre. Cash only, approximately £6 return

Practical Tips

  • Book the ferry in advance — especially in May, June and July when boats fill up quickly
  • Check the weather — the crossing can be rough and ferries may be cancelled in high winds or heavy seas
  • Bring cash — the Puffin Bus is cash-only, and some island businesses do not accept cards
  • Allow enough time — taking the first ferry over and the last ferry back gives you 5-6 hours on the island, enough for the Seabird Centre and some time in the village
  • overnight stays — if possible, staying overnight transforms the experience, allowing you to see the island after the day-trippers have left