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 2 hour 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 16 hours 45 minutes, 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 11.5 to 13.5 hours, again overnight. From Hull it takes roughly 6 hours 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. Stena Line runs a 2.5 hour crossing from Belfast to Cairnryan, and P&O Ferries cross from Larne to Cairnryan in 2 hours. 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.