Rathlin Island ferry service summer 2026 timetable launched
- Love Ballymena
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Kintra ferry crossing the Rathlin Sound. (Image: Shauna Fannin)
A new summer ferry timetable for Rathlin Island has been confirmed — with extra early weekend sailings designed to support workers and boost the island’s busy tourism season.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins announced the updated schedule will run from Friday 3 April to Wednesday 30 September 2026, introducing an additional return crossing every Saturday and Sunday morning.
The new sailings will depart Rathlin at 8:30am and Ballycastle at 9:30am, offering earlier travel options at peak times.
Community feedback drives change
The additional crossings come after consultation between ferry operator Dunaverty Ltd and the Rathlin Development Community Association, where residents highlighted the need for earlier weekend services.
Feedback pointed particularly to the growing number of people working in the hospitality sector, who require earlier connections to and from the island.
Minister Kimmins said the revised timetable reflects a direct response to those concerns.
“I am happy to confirm this new summer schedule to help address needs identified by the community. The additional return crossings will also be an important boost for local tourism and visitors to the island during the busy summer season.
“This extended timetable has come about as a direct result of listening to community feedback and it’s great to see this positive delivery on our Foundations vision.”
Boost for tourism and accessibility
The earlier weekend crossings are expected to improve accessibility for both workers and visitors, particularly during peak months when demand for travel to Rathlin Island increases significantly.
Tourism plays a vital role in the island’s economy, and improved transport links are seen as key to supporting local businesses and enhancing visitor experience.
The updated timetable also aims to reduce pressure on existing sailings, offering more flexibility for day trips and overnight stays.
Where to find the full timetable
The full summer timetable is now available online at:
At a glance
New Rathlin Island ferry timetable runs from 3 April to 30 September 2026
Extra return sailings added every Saturday and Sunday morning
New times: 8:30am from Rathlin, 9:30am from Ballycastle
Changes follow consultation with local community groups
Hospitality workers highlighted need for earlier weekend travel
Ferry operator Dunaverty Ltd worked with Rathlin Development Community Association
Move aims to support tourism during peak summer months
Improved flexibility for visitors and island residents
Minister says timetable reflects direct response to community feedback