Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Ferries

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

Tarbert is easily accessible by road via the A83, which winds through the breathtaking scenery of the Arrochar Alps and Rest and Be Thankful pass. From Glasgow, the journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours by car. Regular bus services connect Tarbert with larger towns like Campbeltown, Lochgilphead, and Glasgow, with connections taking around 3 hours from Glasgow. The nearest rail stations are at Ardrishaig (16 miles) and Gourock (where you can continue by ferry). Ample parking is available near the ferry terminal, with both short and long-stay options for travelers planning island excursions.

Nestled at the narrowest point of the Kintyre Peninsula, Tarbert sits gracefully on the shores of Loch Fyne in Argyll, Scotland. This charming fishing village combines rugged Highland scenery with colorful harbor views, creating a quintessentially Scottish coastal experience. As a key ferry hub, Tarbert connects travelers to the spectacular islands of western Scotland while offering its own blend of maritime heritage and natural beauty.

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers the most pleasant conditions to visit Tarbert, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures typically ranging from 12-18°C (54-64°F). July and August bring the warmest weather and coincide with Tarbert's vibrant festival calendar, including the renowned Tarbert Seafood Festival and Traditional Boat Festival. Ferry services run more frequently during summer months, making island hopping more convenient. For those seeking tranquility and lower accommodation rates, consider the shoulder months of May and September when the village retains its charm but with fewer visitors.

Tarbert serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the magnificent Hebridean islands. Regular ferries connect to the Isle of Arran (approximately 35 minutes), known as 'Scotland in Miniature' for its diverse landscapes and whisky distillery. The stunning Isle of Islay, home to world-famous whisky distilleries and beautiful beaches, is accessible via Kennacraig ferry terminal just 6 miles from Tarbert (a 2-hour crossing). Adventurous travelers can also reach the Isle of Gigha in about 20 minutes from nearby Tayinloan, offering pristine beaches and the renowned Achamore Gardens. The scenic journey across Loch Fyne to Portavadie takes just 25 minutes, connecting you to the secret coast of Cowal.

Tarbert captivates visitors with its imposing 13th-century castle ruins, offering panoramic views across East Loch Tarbert and the harbor below. The village's working harbor provides a fascinating glimpse into Scottish fishing traditions, with colorful boats and the fresh catch of the day. Seafood enthusiasts shouldn't miss the opportunity to sample Loch Fyne's world-renowned oysters, langoustines, and smoked salmon at local establishments like the Starfish Restaurant or Café Ca'Dora. Outdoor adventurers can explore the Kintyre Way, a 100-mile walking route that passes through Tarbert, offering spectacular coastal vistas. The quaint village center, with its traditional Scottish architecture, independent shops, and art galleries, rewards those who wander its narrow streets.

Tarbert's name derives from the Norse word 'tairbeart' meaning 'draw-boat,' referring to the narrow neck of land where Vikings would drag their boats across to avoid sailing around the Kintyre Peninsula. In 1098, Magnus Barefoot, King of Norway, had his ship dragged across this isthmus to claim Kintyre as an island and therefore part of his kingdom. The village hosts Scotland's second-largest fish festival, celebrating its maritime heritage with seafood, music, and boat races. Tarbert was once a strategic royal stronghold, with Robert the Bruce rebuilding the castle in the 14th century to control access to Kintyre and the Hebrides.