CalMac Ferries from the Tarbert Area
Tarbert is the main town near the ferry terminals below with access to Portavadie on the Cowal peninsula across Loch Fyne directly from Tarbert. Kennacraig to the south serves Islay and then Jura and Colonsay. Claonaig ferry goes to the Isle of Arran and further south Tayinloan is the ferry port for the Isle of Gigha.
Tarbert to Portavadie
The Tarbert to Portavadie ferry (Kintyre to Cowal ) is a non bookable, turn up and go route. Tickets for vehicle and passangers are purchased on board the ferry. You will find the ferry timetables here.
Kennacraig to Islay
The ferries to Islay (pronounced Isla) go from Kennacraig to Port Ellen in the south of the island and Kennacraig to Port Askaig. If you destination is Jura then you need the Port Askaig ferry. You can get the ferry timetable details here. Also on the previous link see details for Campers and Motor homes.
In the summer months booking ahead is essential. The ferries are extremely busy at this time of year and can be fully booked weeks in advance at certain times. Please also note that caravans, campervans and motorhomes can not use the standby queues. You will find a full explanation of the reasons why here.
Claonaig to Arran (summer only)
Claonaig (near Skipness) Kintyre to Lochranza on Arran is a turn up and go ferry and tickets for Vehicles and passengers can be bought on the ferry. Due to the exposed nature of the Claonaig slipway this is a summer time ferry only however the route is taken up from Tarbert ot Lochranza (see above) in the winter months. You will find the Claonaig time table here.
Claonaig is 10 miles from Tarbert with two miles on single track roads, try not to impede traffic heading for the ferry.
Tayinloan to Gigha
Tayinloan Ferry port is 19 miles south of Tarbert. The ferry from there to the Isle of Gigha is a quick 20 minute crossing. The ferry is not bookable and runs all year, so just turn up. You can get the official timetables here.
The island of Gigha, although a small island, is a beautiful island to visit with a vibrant welcoming community. It has beaches of white sand and an abundace of wildlife. Day visits are popular and visitors who wish to stay longer are advised to book ahead to avoid dissapointment.