Ferries to Scotland

Ferry to Scotland - arriving via Newcastle

The cheapest route for travellers heading to Scotland from the continent is currently the ferry from Amsterdam to Newcastle. From Newcastle it is about a 2h drive to the Scottish border.

The Amsterdam - Newcastle connection is run by DFDS Seaways. The ferries leave in the afternoon and reach England after about 16h 45min, so it is worth adding a berth to your booking. If you already have a long drive behind you in a motorhome or car, you can rest on board and carry on to Scotland the next morning.

Ferries to Scotland - arriving via Hull

The alternative is the ferry from Rotterdam to Hull. P&O Ferries cover the route in about 11.5h to 13.5h, again overnight. From Hull it takes roughly 6h by car to the Scottish border.

Arriving by motorbike, car or motorhome via Northern Ireland

If you are planning a tour of Great Britain, you can also cross to the Scottish ferry ports from Northern Ireland. StenaLine runs a 2.5h crossing from Belfast to Cairnryan, and P&O Ferries cross from Larne to Cairnryan in 2h. There are further connections from the Orkney Islands and the Shetland Islands.

Tip: Whichever route you choose, booking early usually gets you a lower fare.