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Discover the Glenelg-Skye Ferry – A Historic Ferry Crossing

Discover the Glenelg-Skye Ferry: A Historic Crossing

The Glenelg-Skye Ferry offers a special way to reach the Isle of Skye, providing a route across the Kylerhea Narrows.

This ferry is the last manually operated turntable ferry in the world, giving visitors a chance to experience a unique piece of history while enjoying stunning views of the Highlands and the surrounding wildlife.

Discover the Glenelg-Skye Ferry – A Historic Ferry Crossing
Discover the Glenelg-Skye Ferry – A Historic Ferry Crossing

What to Expect on the Glenelg-Skye Ferry

The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes and offers a relaxed way to travel between Glenelg on the mainland and Kylerhea on Skye.

The ferry runs daily from April to October, with services operating every 20 minutes between 10 am and 6 pm. In the summer months of July and August, the ferry runs until 7 pm.

Things to enjoy on the crossing:

  • Scenic views of the Kylerhea Narrows and the Isle of Skye.
  • Spotting wildlife such as seals, otters, and sea eagles.
  • The historic feel of the manual turntable ferry, adding to the experience.

What Visitors Like About the Glenelg-Skye Ferry

  • Close to nature: Many passengers enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and close encounters with wildlife during the crossing.
  • Historic experience: Travellers appreciate the historical significance of the ferry, as it remains the last of its kind in operation.
  • Friendly crew: The ferry staff are often praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge.
  • Alternative route: Many visitors prefer this crossing over the larger bridge, as it provides a quieter, scenic alternative to reaching Skye.

Visitor Reviews

Reviews of the ferry highlight its unique appeal, with many visitors commenting on the ferry’s historical value and the relaxed pace of the journey.

Others appreciate the opportunity to see seals and otters along the way.

The manual operation of the turntable also adds a layer of interest for those looking to explore Skye in a more traditional way.

Commonly mentioned highlights:

  • Scenery: Breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Wildlife: Frequent sightings of local wildlife, especially during quieter crossings.
  • Efficiency: Even though the ferry is small, visitors report that it runs smoothly with minimal waiting times.

Helpful Information

AspectDetails
Ferry TypeManual turntable ferry
Operating Times10 am – 6 pm (April to October), 10 am – 7 pm (July-August)
Duration of Crossing15 minutes
WildlifeSeals, otters, sea eagles
PaymentOnboard, cash or card accepted
Service Affected by WeatherYes, check updates for closures

Pricing and Payment

You can purchase your ticket on the ferry itself, with payments accepted in cash or by card. There’s no need to book in advance, but it’s a good idea to check for weather updates as the service can sometimes be affected by conditions.

Location and Contact Information

  • Address: Glenelg-Skye Ferry, Glenelg, Scottish Highlands
  • Postcode: IV40 8JZ
  • Phone Number: +44 (0) 1599 522 273

More Information »

For more details on times, fares, and service updates, visit the official Glenelg-Skye Ferry website: Glenelg-Skye Ferry.