Getting To Arran: Our Ferry Service
There are two different ways to get to Arran - from the east with the ‘large boat’ travelling from Ayrshire to Brodick or from the north with a smaller boat running from Claonaig in Argyll to Lochranza. Having these rather different ways of getting to the island provides the visitor with some interesting options.
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At the time of writing the ferry provider, CalMac, is in the process of transitioning from what has been the main Ayrshire port serving Arran -Ardrossan-to a new port slightly further south-Troon. The precise times of this transition are still being finalised, however we expect this to happen in early summer. In practical terms, bookings on the Ayrshire to Arran route can be made directly at https://www.calmac.co.uk/destinations/arran and in the event that there is a change in port (Troon and Ardrossan are only 25 mins drive apart) CalMac will advise you in advance.
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The ferry, running between Claonaig on the Mull of Kintyre and Lochranza situated on Arran’s northern tip, runs back and forth at about one per hour on a (non-bookable) turn up and go basis. This is a particularly good option if you are travelling to Arran from Oban or the north and west of Scotland or if you want to use Arran as a starting point before heading to the highlands and islands north and west.
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Alternatively, if you were travelling from Glasgow, this presents a fantastic, scenic option travelling along the banks of Loch Lomond before turning off at Tarbet heading towards Arrochar and driving over the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ and on towards Inveraray (with its famous castle). Part of this route takes you along the banks of Loch Fyne, famous for its seafood and with nice eating options such as the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar along the way.
If you have any questions about the ferry service, then please do not hesitate to get in touch by email info@cruickshanksarran.co.uk or by phone: +44-1770-700190.
Cruickshanks is a luxury 5-Star Boutique B&B based on Arran and has been awarded the AA Scottish Guest Accommodation of the Year. We are happy to provide help and advice on whatever itinerary takes your fancy; we also have storage and drying facilities available to all of our B&B guests.
