Castlebay port

The community hub of Barra, Castlebay is the island’s largest village and gateway to the Outer Hebrides for many travellers. Known for its vibrant landscape and local artistry, Barra is served by our route from Oban on the mainland.

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Port information

Caledonian MacBrayne

Ferry Terminal

Castlebay

HS9 5XD

Opening hours from 28 March 2025 – 19 October 2025

Mon - Fri: 9:00 a.m - 5.00 p.m
Sat: 9.00 a.m - 3.00 p.m
Sun: 9.00 a.m - 12.00 p.m

Key information

This is a bookable route. We advise you to book and reserve your preferred sailing in advance.
If you arrive at the port without a reservation we may still be able to carry you. Please proceed to the ticket office.
Pre-Booking of vehicles is strongly recommended.
Crossing Time: 4 hours 45 minutes.
Operates year round.

Alternative routes: Did you know a number of our destinations have more than route available to get you there? You can find out more in our destinations section or read our Island Hopping Guide.

This is a bookable route. We advise you to book and reserve your preferred sailing in advance.
If you arrive at the port without a reservation we may still be able to carry you. Please proceed to the ticket office.
Pre-Booking of vehicles is strongly recommended.
Crossing Time: 4 hours 45 minutes.
Operates year round.

Alternative routes: Did you know a number of our destinations have more than route available to get you there? You can find out more in our destinations section or read our Island Hopping Guide.

Check in process

Vehicles

Please arrive at least 45 minutes before departure.
If you arrive earlier than the stated check in time please do not join the boarding lanes.
Please follow signs - terminal staff will check you in.
If you miss your booked sailing, or the size of your vehicle differs from that declared, you may have to pay an additional fee.
We reserve the right to amend your booking appropriately on arrival.

Vehicles

Please arrive at least 45 minutes before departure.
If you arrive earlier than the stated check in time please do not join the boarding lanes.
Please follow signs - terminal staff will check you in.
If you miss your booked sailing, or the size of your vehicle differs from that declared, you may have to pay an additional fee.
We reserve the right to amend your booking appropriately on arrival.

Foot passenger

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Proceed directly to the check-in desk within the terminal.
If you arrive earlier than the stated check in time please do not join the foot passenger queue.
If you miss your booked sailing you may incur an additional fee.
We reserve the right to amend your booking appropriately on arrival.

Nearby

The town centre is only 350 metres from the harbour. There you can fill up your petrol tank for your Hebridean adventure, withdraw cash to spend on island souvenirs and pick up any essentials you need before you depart.
Check out the Visit Scotland guide to Barra to learn more about the fabulous food and drink offerings available on the island.

The Caledonian MacBrayne ferry to Barra sitting in the bay next to the rugged stone Kisimul Castle.

Connections

Connect with local buses, with the stop handily located just 200 metres from the terminal. Visit Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for bus times.
Or travel onwards via taxi. Local taxi numbers
- Dan Currie 01871 810497 / 07807 526134
- Rob Stewart 01871 810012 / 07974 071255.