Rathlin Island ferry

The Rathlin Island ferry operates between Rathlin Island and Ballycastle. There is information about fares, how to book tickets, and the Rathlin Island Resident Pass.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update - from Friday 26 June, travel restrictions now allow people who have pre-booked accommodation on Rathlin Island to travel on the ferry. 
From Friday 3July, tourists wishing to visit the island using the ferry service will be allowed to do so, although capacity on board vessels will be restricted due to social distancing measures. 
Anyone travelling to the island must continue to be responsible and adhere to the guidance given on essential travel and social distancing.
 

How to book your ticket

You have to pre-book tickets beforehand to confirm availability and to reserve your space. 

To pre-book your ticket, contact Rathlin Island Ferry Limited.

Some tickets will be available for sale online. 

More information on tickets and ferry sailings is available on Rathlin Island ferry website.

Ticket types

There are a number of ticket types available:

  • adult single - £6.00
  • adult return - £12.00
  • child single - £3.00
  • child return - £6.00
  • family day return - £32.00 (two adults plus two children)
  • bicycles - £3.30 return (bicycles must be booked by contacting the booking office as restrictions may apply)
  • vehicle restrictions apply - contact the booking office for further information and prices

All passengers must keep tickets in a readable condition for the entire sailing. 

Tickets and your pass (if applicable) must be shown for inspection on demand by either a member of the ferry operator crew or staff, or a Department for Infrastructure monitoring officer. 

You may be charged the full fare if you fail to show a valid ticket or pass when asked. 

Discounted fares

Discounted fares are offered on Rathlin Island ferry. 

There is free travel for:

There is half fare travel for:

  • Half Fare SmartPass holders
  • children aged five to 15 years  

A valid SmartPass must be shown when you get your ticket or the full adult fare will be charged for the journey. 

Rathlin Island Resident Pass

Discounted fares are also offered on the Rathlin Island ferry to holders of a Rathlin Island Resident Pass.  The discount rates are: 

Resident Pass

Type of Resident Pass

Discount on standard fare

Resident adult over 65

SmartPass 

Free

Resident adult over 60

60+ Pass

Free

Resident adult aged over 16

Adult Pass

Half Fare

Resident child aged 5 to 16

Child Pass

75 per cent

Rathlin Island Resident Passes are issued by the Department for Infrastructure.  For further information, contact the Department .

 

 

 

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