How long is the ferry to Stornoway?

The crossing from Ullapool takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Can I fly to Stornoway?

Yes, Loganair operates flights from Glasgow and Edinburgh, but not directly from Aberdeen.

Is Stornoway on the mainland?

No, Stornoway is the main town on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

Do I need a car in Stornoway?

A car is highly recommended to explore the island's remote attractions.

Are there trains to Stornoway?

No, there is no railway network on the Isle of Lewis.

Aberdeen

Stornoway

Bus Driving

Aberdeen to Stornoway

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from Aberdeen to Stornoway requires a combination of driving and a ferry crossing. You must drive west across Scotland to Ullapool, which takes about 3.5 hours via the A96 and A835. From Ullapool, you board the CalMac ferry to Stornoway, a crossing of approximately 2.5 hours. This route takes you through the heart of the Highlands, offering spectacular mountain scenery. It is the most practical way to reach the Isle of Lewis from the Granite City.

Total Distance: Driving distance 260 km to Ullapool + 60 km ferry; straight-line air distance 230 km.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle to Ullapool and taking the ferry.

Cheapest Way

Public bus service via Citylink is the most cost-effective method.

Compare Aberdeen to Stornoway Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	8 hours	6 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	£50 - £80	£40 - £60 (fuel)
Operator	Citylink	N/A
Route	Aberdeen to Inverness, then Inverness to Ullapool, then ferry.	A96 to Inverness, A835 to Ullapool, then CalMac ferry.
Tip	Citylink offers a combined bus and ferry ticket for this route.	The A835 is a scenic but winding road; allow extra time for slow-moving vehicles.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Always book your ferry space in advance, especially if traveling with a vehicle.
Sunday Closures
Many shops and services in Stornoway close on Sundays due to local traditions.
Fuel Up
Fill your tank in Ullapool before boarding the ferry, as fuel is more expensive on the island.
Midges
If traveling in summer, carry midge repellent for outdoor activities.
Gaelic Language
You will hear Gaelic spoken; learning a few basic phrases is appreciated by locals.

Safety Tips

Weather Delays
Ferry services are frequently cancelled in high winds; check the CalMac service status page.
Single Track Roads
The island has many single-track roads; always use passing places to let others overtake.
Wildlife
Watch for deer and sheep on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
Emergency Access
Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas; carry a paper map.