Lough Swilly Ferry

Swilly Ferry (also known as the Lough Swilly Ferry) is a scenic seasonal ferry service operating between Buncrana in Co. Donegal and Rathmullan on the Fanad Peninsula. Travelling across beautiful Lough Swilly along the Wild Atlantic Way, this popular car and passenger ferry offers visitors a convenient and memorable way to explore both sides of the estuary while enjoying stunning coastal views.

⭐ Why Choose Swilly Ferry?

Visitors and travellers choose Swilly Ferry because it offers:

• Direct seasonal crossings between Buncrana and Rathmullan
• Transport for both foot passengers and vehicles (cars, motorcycles, minibuses)
• Beautiful views over Lough Swilly and the Inishowen Peninsula
• A relaxed and scenic alternative to driving around the lough
• First‑come, first‑served service — no pre‑booking required for most crossings

Whether you’re touring the Wild Atlantic Way, planning a day trip across the lough or simply exploring coastal Donegal and Northern Ireland, Swilly Ferry is a classic Irish transport experience.

⛴️ Service & Sailings

June & September Sailings

Departing Buncrana:
10:00am • 11:20am • 12:40pm • 2:00pm • 3:20pm • 4:40pm • 6:00pm

Departing Rathmullan:
10:40am • 12:00pm • 1:20pm • 2:40pm • 4:00pm • 5:20pm • 6:40pm

July & August Sailings

Departing Buncrana:
9:00am • 10:20am • 11:40am • 1:00pm • 2:20pm • 3:40pm • 5:00pm • 6:20pm

Departing Rathmullan:
9:40am • 11:00am • 12:20pm • 1:40pm • 3:00pm • 4:20pm • 5:40pm • 7:00pm

⚠️ Sailing times may vary depending on weather and seasonal operations. Visitors are advised to check the official Lough Swilly Ferry Facebook page before travelling.

💰 Fares

• Adult Foot Passenger – Single: €7.00, Return: €9.00
• Child Foot Passenger (5‑14yrs) – Single: €4.00, Return: €6.00
• Car (includes max 2 Adults & 3 Children) – Single: €19.00, Return: €30.00
• Motorcycles (including driver) – Single: €10.00, Return: €14.00
• Mini Bus / Van (including driver only) – Single: €30.00, Return: €45.00
• Camper Van – Email for pricing based on vehicle size

🚢 Ferry Features

• Roll‑on / roll‑off ferry for vehicles and foot passengers
• Carries up to ~18 cars and 100+ passengers
• First‑come, first‑served boarding
• Scenic 40‑minute crossing (approx.)

⏰ Opening Hours & Seasonal Schedule

Full Summer Schedule:

• June – Mid‑September: Daily sailings
• Operating hours: approx. 10:00am – 6:40pm (check website for exact timetable)

Outside of summer, the ferry does not operate, with updates for the 2026 season available on the official website.

📍 Location & Contact

Lough Swilly Ferry
Buncrana Pier, Buncrana, Co.Donegal F93 F865

📞 +353 87 211 2331
📧 loughswillyferry@gmail.com

🌐 Website: http://swillyferry.com/