Getting to the Isle of Skye
While many people will travel across the Skye Bridge to Skye, there are also some very good ferry options. The ferry from Mallaig can be a quick choice and prevents a detour via Kyle of Lochalsh (where the bridge is built).
If you're up for some slow travel then the Glenelg-Skye ferry is worth considering. You arrive at a small and unique ferry via the beautiful mountain road.
In addition to connections from mainland Scotland, you can also reach Skye from various islands. Ferries run between Skye and Raasay and from the Outer Hebrides Lewis and Uist.
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Map with crossings to isle of Skye
In total there are 5 ferry crossings to and from the Isle of Skye. Where exactly the ferries depart and arrive can be clearly seen on the map.
There are two ferries to the Isle of Skye from the mainland. You can choose the Mallaig-Armadale ferry and the Glenelg-Skye ferry.
Also on this page
To Skye from the Scottish Mainland
Mallaig is of particular interest to those coming from the direction of Fort William on the A830, so basically, anyone coming from the south. Often the bridge is still a bit faster to travel to Skye, but the ferry is much more fun!
When the bridge was built in 1996, the Glenelg-Skye ferry became much less attractive. Yet people choose to go on an adventure with this ferry. Because, according to many, it is a unique crossing. The experience starts with winding roads to the ferry. Then you get on the “Glenachulish”. the last manually operated turntable ferry in existence.
Curious about other ferries to and within Scotland? This page gives an overview of ferries to and within Scotland.
Mainland ⇔ Isle of Skye
To Skye from the Outer Hebrides
There are two options for those who want to travel from the Outer Hebrides to The Isle of Skye.
For most travellers, this is just the boat back from the Outer Hebrides, but it is interesting to mention for those who are island hopping.
For example, you can take the ferry from Oban or Mallaig to the Outer Hebrides and then take the boat to the Isle of Skye.
Outer Hebrides ⇔ Uig
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is the largest island of the Inner Hebrides. It is about 50 miles / 80 km from southeast to northwest. Bringing a car is therefore quite useful if you want to explore the island well.
Nice places to visit are Portree, Dunvegan Castle and the Talisker Distillery. However, many people will also head out into nature to enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot some wildlife.
There are a number of websites where you can find good information about the island:
Frequently Asked Questions
The ferry crossings are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) and the Glenelg-Skye ferry.
The Mallaig-Skye ferry crossing that is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) is well affordable. A one-way journey for 2 adults and a car is a little over £17.00. The Glenelg-Skye ferry is a bit more expensive but not that much. If you travel as a foot passenger, prices start at £3.00. However, the cheapest way to get to the Isle of Skye is by the bridge. This is not a toll bridge, so it is free.
Unfortunately there is no direct ferry connection between Mull and Skye. If you want to travel between the two islands, you can take the Tobermory-Kilchoan or Fishnish-Lochaline ferry and continue to Mallaig harbor where you can take the ferry to Skye.
Use our ferry guides and maps
Ferry talk: Share your questions and opinions
Ask, answer, and explore ferry routes with the community's expertise!
Hello, may I know the information about Ferry route from Mallaig to Portree that can carry a car? Is it able to pre-buy by online? Thanks in advance.
Hi Geby,
Thanks for your question and we did the research for you:
You need to drive to Mallaig and from there take a car ferry to Armadale. From Armadale you can drive to Portree. I made a few arrows on the map to show you how this looks:
https://ferrygogo.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mallaigtoportree.jpg
Here is the route you need:
https://ferrygogo.com/route/mallaig-armadale/
Good luck with your travel to the Isle of Skye!
Wish to book ferry with a hire car but do not have vehicle details until the day of travel. Can we still book now?
Yes. but you have to call Calmac customer service for this: 00 44 1475 650397
Can you take a motorhome on the ferry & is it a different price
Hi Clair
In most cases you can take a motorhome on the ferry. On the Calmac website you'll find more info here: https://www.calmac.co.uk/article/8251/What-information-do-I-need-to-be-aware-of-prior-to-taking-a-caravan-motorhome-campervan-or-boat-on-a-trailer-onto-our-ferries. Often this is a bit pricier than travelling by car, but we couldn't find the exact prices.
Did you figure it out already yourself? And if so, we would be happy to know!
Best regards and happy travels!