What time do the ferries depart Rathlin/Ballycastle?
Please see our timetable page.
How much are tickets?
Please see our timetable page.
How do I book ferry tickets?
Please see our booking page.
How much time do I need to get my tickets at the office and on board?
You can purchase your tickets online well in advance. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to board the ferry for the safety announcements.
Can I cancel or amend my booking?
You can cancel your booking by contacting the Booking Office by phone, email or in person. We appreciate as much notice as possible so that spaces can be offered to other passengers. You must cancel 48 hours before travel to receive a refund.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes dogs are welcome and travel free but please note that they must remain on a lead at all times whilst on board the ferry and on Rathlin Island. Passengers with dogs other than guide dogs may be asked to travel on the outer deck.
Can I bring my bicycle?
Please note that we can only carry a small number of bikes as space is restricted. All bicycles must be booked online. There is a small fee for all bikes including children’s bikes.
How many passengers can each ferry carry?
The passenger number depends on the time of year, weather conditions, and other factors. The skipper always has the final say.
Can infants travel on the ferry?
Yes babies and children under 5 can travel free on all sailings. Although they travel free a ticket must be reserved online for safety reasons. Please note that the skipper may advise against travel with small children if sea conditions are unsuitable.
What happens if I miss my ferry?
Passengers are asked to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to board the ferry for the safety announcements. It is very important that you do not miss your return sailing from Rathlin to Ballycastle as during peak times many sailings can be fully booked and there may be no availability on other sailings. We are not responsible for any costs incurred by passengers who miss their ferry.
Do I have to book a return journey/can I change my return journey?
Passengers are advised to book both the outgoing and return journey for day trips and overnight stays. This is to ensure there is availability and to guarantee return travel. If passengers arrive for an earlier sailing to Rathlin or from Rathlin then they will be asked to wait until all pre-booked passengers have boarded and if space is available they can be transferred.
Is there an ATM on Rathlin Island?
Please note that there are no longer ATM facilities on the island and only some businesses accept card payment. It is advisable to bring cash to Rathlin.
How do I know if there are disruptions/cancellations?
If there are any disruptions or cancellations then we will contact anyone booked to advise them. This is why it is important that we have a contact number when making a booking. We also put travel updates on our social media feeds so please make sure to follow us.
Where can I park my car?
A list of off street parking facilities can be found at: https://www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/live/off-street-car-parking
Please note that parking is limited near the terminal at peak times so you are advised to allow plenty of time to find a space nearby.
If you do not arrive 30 minutes before your departure to board the ferry you may lose your pre-booked spaces as they will be offered to anyone on stand-by. Due to quick turn-around times for all sailings it is not possible for any sailings to wait past their scheduled departure time if you are late for any reason.
Please note that parking is limited near the terminal at peak times so you are advised to allow plenty of time to find a space nearby.
If you do not arrive 30 minutes before your departure to board the ferry you may lose your pre-booked spaces as they will be offered to anyone on stand-by. Due to quick turn-around times for all sailings it is not possible for any sailings to wait past their scheduled departure time if you are late for any reason.
What facilities are onboard?
The Spirit of Rathlin (SOR) has three toilets on the lower deck, one of which has disabled access. There is one toilet on the middle deck and there are no toilet facilities on the upper deck. There are timetables, Rathlin Walks brochures and convenience bags on the lower deck.
Our fast ferry Kintra II has toilet facilities, timetables, Rathlin Walks brochures and convenience bags.
If you need help or assistance while on either ferry please ask a crew member who will be happy to assist.
Our fast ferry Kintra II has toilet facilities, timetables, Rathlin Walks brochures and convenience bags.
If you need help or assistance while on either ferry please ask a crew member who will be happy to assist.
Health and safety onboard
You are required to board the ferry for the safety announcement and it is recommended to listen to the safety announcement in case of an emergency and note where the emergency exits are. All crew have first aid training and should you need help or attention during the sailing please alert a member of crew. Crew are clearly visible and in uniform. They may also wear high visibility waistcoats or jackets.
You are asked to be cautious while on the ferry and take special care when moving around the vessel as there are some hazards and certain areas can be slippy. The sea can be bumpy and therefore you are asked to remain seated or hold the handrail if standing, walking around or using stairs to avoid accident or injury. Children and pets are passengers responsibility and should be monitored at all times and not left unattended. If you feel ill or unwell or need assistance while on the ferry then please ask a crew member who will be happy to assist.
You are asked to be cautious while on the ferry and take special care when moving around the vessel as there are some hazards and certain areas can be slippy. The sea can be bumpy and therefore you are asked to remain seated or hold the handrail if standing, walking around or using stairs to avoid accident or injury. Children and pets are passengers responsibility and should be monitored at all times and not left unattended. If you feel ill or unwell or need assistance while on the ferry then please ask a crew member who will be happy to assist.