What information do I need to know when travelling on the Lochaline - Fishnish service?
We have an alternative crossing to/from Mull via our non-bookable Lochaline - Fishnish service. For those new to the route, we've shared some useful information to be aware of, below.
This route is a turn up and go service and will be operated on a first come first served basis. View our timetable pages for information on sailing times as these can change for summer and winter periods - please check the service status page for the latest information in the event a shuttle service is in place.
Travelling to Lochaline
Directions to the mainland port at Lochaline can be found using the postcode PA80 5XT.
Please note the route to Lochaline includes a ferry crossing via The Highland Council's Corran Ferry (if travelling from the south including from the Oban direction) You will have to pay separately for this ferry.
The Corran Ferry operates on a turn up and go service and departs regularly throughout the day. Once you depart the Corran Ferry at Ardgour, turn left and follow the directions to Lochaline.
Some portions of the road are narrow, and long sections are single track, with passing places (A8884), so please build this into your journey plan. Follow advice on travelling on rural roads - use passing places on your left to allow oncoming and following vehicles to pass, taking care to avoid verges. Be aware of wildlife and grazing livestock which may be close to the road.
A petrol station can be found before you arrive at Corran Ferry at North Ballachulish, PH33 6RZ - after you cross the Ballachulish Bridge, after a tight bend to the left. A further petrol station is located in Lochaline - please check opening hours prior to travel.
Lochaline is a small unmanned port with limited facilities available. Toilets and an independently operated snack bar are available next to the car lanes. A shop is also available 80metres from the car lanes. To avoid disappointment due to varying opening hours, we recommend you plan ahead by checking opening hours online, or come prepared with any food/drink as the drive including ferry journey can take up to 2 and a half hours from Oban.
Due to the location of this port, and limited transport connections for foot passengers, this route is more suited for passengers travelling in their own vehicle.
Travelling to Fishnish
Directions to the island port on Mull at Fishnish can be found using the postcode PA65 6BA. This only takes around 8-10 mins to drive here from Craignure. Head from Craignure, westwards towards Tobermory/Salen. Approximately 5 miles along this road, just after the Mull Rugby Club on your left, you will see a sign for Lochaline Car Ferry. Turn right here to reach the slipway. There is a message board on the right indicating the next sailing time.
Fishnish is a small unmanned port with limited facilities available. Toilets and an independently operated snack bar are available. If you are planning to travel via this crossing from Craignure, please plan ahead by checking snack bar opening times, and/or come prepared with any food/drink required in the event of any extended wait time at the Fishnish slipway, and for your onward journey from Fishnish.
The last shop and petrol station can be found in Craignure before you reach Fishnish. Information on the facilities from Lochaline and onwards are shared above.
Onward directions from Lochaline
Following the crossing from Fishnish to Lochaline, the drive to Ardgour and the Corran Ferry which connects passengers to the A82 will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Once you arrive at the Lochaline slipway turn right at the main junction onto the A884. It is signposted for Strontian and Corran Ferry. Some portions of the road are narrow, and long sections are single track, with passing places (A8884), so please build this into your journey plan. Follow advice on travelling on rural roads - use passing places on your left to allow oncoming and following vehicles to pass. Be aware of wildlife and grazing livestock which may be close to the road.
After 20 miles on this road, it arrives at the T-junction with the A861. Turn right here, following signs for Ardgour and Corran Ferry. As you arrive at Corran Ferry, follow signs to merge with the ferry lanes on your right. The Highland Council's Corran Ferry operates on a turn up and go service and departs regularly throughout the day. After the short crossing on the Corran Ferry, if you wish to travel directly to Fort William, turn left onto the A82 at the junction at the ferry slipway exit. To travel to the central belt or Oban, turn right onto the A82. After passing over the Ballachulish bridge you will come to a roundabout. Turn first left here for Oban or second left for Tyndrum and the south / central belt.
Please note - If you had a reservation for Oban-Craignure and decide to use this route as an alternative, you will need to buy a new ticket for Lochaline - Fishnish, and request a refund for your unused ticket. You can do this by contacting our Customer Engagement Centre or when submitting a claim through our passenger rights process.