The largest and most popular ferry is the Ardrossan (North Ayrshire) to Brodick (Arran, east). A second, smaller ferry is also in operation on this route during the peak summer months to cope with the volume of visitors. The crossing is 55 minutes, and during peak season, it is strongly advised that you should book in advance if you have a vehicle. There is an unbooked lane at both terminals on a first come first served basis, but this still does not guarentee a place on the ferry for your vehicle at the busiest times. If you are a foot passenger, there is no requirement to reserve your place in advance, but you must firstly go to the terminal building to obtain your ticket before boarding.

The second route is the Claonaig (Kintyre) to Lochranza (Arran, north) crossing. This takes 30 minutes and the ferry is a lot smaller than its Ardrossan sister. There is no requirement to book in advance with a vehicle. It`s a case of just turning up and waiting your turn. There are regular crossings each day in the summer, but not so in the winter.

Whichever route you choose, it is advised that when travelling with a vehicle, you should be at the terminal no later than 30 minutes before the sailing. Even if you have an advanced booking, you could lose your place on the boat if you arrive late.

On Arran - Using the buses 
On Arran, the buses, operated by Stagecoach (www.spt.co.uk), run in conjunction with the Brodick ferry times (not Lochranza ferry). So, for example, if you are a foot passenger, you can walk off the ferry at Brodick and straight on to the bus of your choice. For telephone enquiries call 01770 302000 (Arran), or 0871 200 22 33, or 0141 332 3076.

The bus for Shiskine is the 322 Blackwaterfoot via the String (road). This will be shown in its windscreen. The bus cuts across the island and passes through Shiskine. This will take no longer than 20 to 25 minutes.

Bus journeys can be paid for each time you board, or alternatively, the "Arran Day Rider" (£4.75) and "Megarider" (£27.50) for longer stays, can be purchased on the buses - these would work out cheaper for those who wish to travel around the island without using a car.

Below is a map of Arran showing Brodick (ferry terminal), Lochranza (ferry terminal), and Shiskine where our cottage is situated.

On Arran - Using the car 
If you are travelling by car or similar, turn right out of Brodick ferry terminal and continue through Brodick until you reach the "Y" junction. Take the left fork signposted B880 Blackwaterfoot. Continue for 9 miles until you enter Shiskine. The journey will take 15 to 20 minutes. We are in the centre of the village, with a bed and breakfast sign outside.

If you are using the Claonaig (Kintyre) to Lochranza ferry crossing with your vehicle, turn right out of the Lochranza ferry terminal and simply continue down the west coast road for approximately 16 miles. Before you reach Blackwaterfoot, take the road on the left (you will see a memorial cenotaph and small post box at the junction, just past Shiskine Free Church. There is no signpost to Shiskine however). You will arrive at a "T" junction after approximately one mile. This is Shiskine. Turn right, and we are 50 metres on the right. The journey from Lochranza should take about 30 minutes.

Car Hire on Arran
Car hire is available at the following:
Blackwaterfoot Garage: 4 to 5 cars. £30 per day small, £40 per day large. Tel. +44 (0)1770 860277.
Brodick ferry terminal : A limited number of vehicles available. 
£35 per day. Tel. Arran Transport Ltd (petrol station) on 
+44 (0)1770 302121.

In high season, it is strongly advised to book car hire well in advance.

All prices quoted are based on 2010 figures.

Have a safe journey. We look forward to meeting with you.