Check the latest ferry status for this route View service status

Route information

Key information

Islay: Kennacraig – Port Ellen/Port Askaig

Summer timetable Until 19 October 2025:

8 September - 19 October: View timetable

Winter timetable 20 October 2025 - 26 March 2026:

Winter timetables for the period from 20 October 2025 through to 26 March 2026 are now available to view below. Bookings will open on Thursday 11 September from 9am. View winter timetable here.

Livestock Sales: To support livestock sales, amended timetables will operate on 5 - 7 December. View amended timetable.

Key Information:

Service status: Always check our service status pages for the latest information on this route.

Tickets: Book your ticket online, in advance of travel, even if you’re a foot passenger. All vehicles and passengers must have a valid ticket prior to travel.

Check-in: 30 minutes for vehicles and 10 minutes for foot passengers prior to departure. Late check in may result in space being reallocated or vehicles being refused carriage.

Read our passenger travel checklist to prepare for your journey.

Making an online reservation for Islay: when booking travel to/from Islay online, there will be three options available: Kennacraig – Islay, Kennacraig – Port Ellen, and Kennacraig – Port Askaig. If you select Kennacraig-Islay, all sailings to/from both ports, either Port Ellen or Port Askaig, will be shown. If you wish to use different ports on Islay for each leg of a return journey, please select the Kennacraig – Islay option.

Planning ahead:  Book your ticket online in advance of travel - even if you're a foot passenger. eTickets can be scanned from your device.  

Concessions: SPT Ferry Card, SPT Companion Ferry Card and Blue badge concessions are available online and can be applied to your ticket. Please carry your concession card with you.

Group passengers: for tickets purchased online for any number of travelling companions the full party must travel on the same sailing. This applies to all legs of the journey. If you are unsure whether all group members will travel together, please make separate bookings.

Guidance

  • CheckNo service 25 December and 1 January
  • CheckOn Saturdays some services operate to Colonsay. Please see Colonsay timetable for further information.
  • CheckSMS subscriptions Kennacraig - Port Ellen - Port Askaig - Text code 09 Stay updated

Available timetables

Port and vessel facilities