Rathlin Ferry contract extended to ensure service continuity until 2027

In a move to safeguard essential transport links for Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, the Department for Infrastructure has confirmed a contract extension for the Rathlin Ferry service.

Dunaverty Ltd, the current operator, has accepted the extension, which will maintain the lifeline connection between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island up to July 2027.

The announcement comes as part of efforts to provide stability for residents, businesses, and tourists who rely on the ferry for daily commutes, supplies, and access to the island’s unique natural heritage.

Rathlin Island, located six miles off the County Antrim coast, is home to around 150 people and attracts thousands of visitors annually, drawn by its seabird colonies, historic lighthouse, and rugged landscapes.

The extended contract will ensure the provision of this service up to July 2027. This follows the original agreement awarded to Dunaverty Ltd on 11 January 2023, after the previous supplier entered administration, leaving the route in urgent need of a new operator.

The contract has been extended to January 2027 but there is an option for a further 6 months extension if required.

The Department is committed to the provision of the lifeline ferry service and is planning a public procurement process for a new service. This forward-looking approach aims to secure long-term sustainability for the route, which has faced challenges in recent years, including operational disruptions and the need for reliable vessels.

The contract modification was completed in accordance with current contract regulations, ensuring transparency and compliance in the process.

Dawn Hynes, Boatmaster, and Co-Director at Kintra Boat Tours which operates the Rathlin Ferry. Dawn plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and safe journeys to Rathlin.

The Rathlin Ferry operates year-round, with timetables adjusted seasonally to accommodate weather conditions and demand. In summer months, additional sailings cater to tourists, while winter services focus on essential transport for islanders.

The extension provides reassurance amid ongoing discussions about enhancing ferry services across Northern Ireland, including potential investments in greener vessels to align with environmental goals.

Local stakeholders have welcomed the stability offered by the extension. The ferry not only supports the island’s economy—bolstered by tourism, fishing, and small-scale farming—but also ensures access to mainland services such as healthcare and education.

Any interruption could have significant repercussions, as highlighted by past incidents when services were temporarily halted.

As the Department prepares for the upcoming procurement, potential bidders will be invited to tender for a contract that could introduce innovations in scheduling, ticketing, and sustainability. This process is expected to be competitive, drawing interest from operators experienced in managing similar lifeline routes.

In the broader context of Northern Ireland’s transport network, the Rathlin Ferry extension aligns with commitments to improve connectivity in peripheral areas. The Department for Infrastructure continues to oversee a range of maritime services, emphasising reliability and safety.

Residents and visitors are advised to check the latest timetables via the official Rathlin Ferry website. With the extension now in place, the service is poised to continue uninterrupted, bridging the gap between mainland Northern Ireland and its cherished island outpost until at least 2027.

Book your trip to Rathlin Island now:

https://www.rathlin-ferry.com/