Port Askaig Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The main ferry route to Port Askaig operates from Kennacraig on the Scottish mainland, with crossings taking approximately 2 hours. Travelers can reach Kennacraig by car via the A83 from Glasgow (about 2.5 hours drive) or connect via bus services from Glasgow that align with ferry departures. If coming from further afield, car hire is available in larger towns like Oban or Glasgow. The terminal offers both short and long-term parking facilities, though space can be limited during peak summer months, so arriving early is advisable. Local taxi services are available at the port for onward transportation around Islay.

Nestled on the eastern shore of Islay, Port Askaig serves as a vital maritime gateway to this famed Scottish island. This charming harbor settlement welcomes visitors with its authentic Scottish character and stunning views across the Sound of Islay to neighboring Jura. As your ferry glides into port, you'll be greeted by the peaceful rhythm of island life that has characterized this historic landing point for centuries.

May through September offers the most pleasant weather for visiting Port Askaig, with longer daylight hours and temperatures typically ranging from 12-18°C (54-64°F). Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and fewer tourists, while the annual Islay Festival of Music and Malt in late May draws whisky enthusiasts from around the world. Summer provides the most reliable weather and increased ferry services, though advance booking becomes essential. Winter visits (November-March) offer a more solitary experience with dramatic coastal scenery, though some local attractions operate reduced hours and ferry crossings may face weather-related disruptions.

Port Askaig serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring neighboring Scottish islands. The five-minute ferry crossing to Jura reveals a wild, mountainous landscape dominated by the distinctive Paps of Jura and a population of deer that outnumbers humans by 30 to 1. Colonsay, reached in about an hour, offers pristine beaches and the beautiful Colonsay House Gardens. For more extensive island-hopping, connections to the mainland allow access to the wider Hebridean network, including Mull and Skye. The short crossing to Feolin on Jura is particularly scenic, with opportunities to spot seals, otters, and sea eagles along the Sound of Islay.

The area surrounding Port Askaig offers a wealth of authentic Scottish experiences. Whisky enthusiasts shouldn't miss Caol Ila Distillery, located just north of the port, known for its peaty single malts and spectacular views across to Jura during tastings. Nature lovers can explore the rugged coastline on the Bunnahabhain coastal walk, offering opportunities to spot seals, otters, and seabirds. For history buffs, the ancient Finlaggan, once the seat of the Lords of the Isles, lies just a short drive away. Sample fresh seafood at the Port Askaig Hotel, where local catches are paired with island-produced whisky in a traditional setting with harbor views.

Port Askaig has been a crucial landing point for over 400 years, with records showing regular ferry service since at least the 17th century. The distinctive white buildings along the waterfront once served as warehouses for the island's booming whisky trade, with some dating back to the 1820s. The waters of the Sound of Islay flowing past the harbor feature some of the strongest tidal currents in Britain, creating the perfect environment for the abundant marine life spotted from the pier. Local legend claims that a Spanish galleon from the Armada sank nearby, though treasure hunters have yet to discover any significant finds.