New Ferry Update

Friday 13th January 2023

Arranging a new contract for the ferry service comes with a thousand details to be sorted, as we can imagine. Some of those details have already been reflected in immediate and practical questions. In most cases, we don't yet have the answers, and probably nobody else does either. Be assured that those details are being addressed as quickly as possible, by DfI and the new operators. Hopefully, the previous employees will soon be able to play their part again.

Meanwhile, we will pass on as much information as we have, as soon as possible, until a new system is in place and information can be supplied directly by the ferry operators.

  • The new service will start with the Kintra ll, restricted to 12 passengers.
  • Bookings and information: 07848473652 (This is Kintra Boat Tours. A new number will be supplied as soon as possible)
  • Phone will be answered in normal office hours only - 8.30am - 5pm, and closed for lunch between 12.30 and 1.30pm
  • Kintra ll intends to cover the 5 daily sailings on the current timetable. The crossing is approximately 30 mins and it may be necessary to allow for slight delays or changes until both boats are able to cover the service
  • Timetable: Depart Rathlin: 8am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm, 4.30pm Depart Ballycastle: 8.30am, 10.30am, 2pm, 3.30pm, 5pm*
  • *Please note the last departure from Rathlin will be 4.30pm, Ballycastle 5pm. These timings may need slight temporary adjustment to accommodate the fact that only one boat is covering all sailings.
  • All Kintra ll sailings, from Rathlin and Ballycastle, will be from the same departure point previously used by the Rathlin Express
  • All current discounts will continue to be honoured on presentation of Resident passes or Smart passes.
  • Please note: cash payments only, for the first few days, while waiting on equipment.

The Spirit of Rathlin will return to service as soon as crew contracts are in place, all MCA inspections are completed satisfactorily, and for this to be in place as early as possible.

Due to the weather today (Friday 13th January) the ferry will not run this morning. An update on possible later sailings in the afternoon may be available later this morning.

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