Skye Ferry - Glenelg to Kylerhea

Now that the Skye Bridge is in operation the main crossing from Kyleakin to Kyle of Lochalsh by ferry is now closed. However you can still go 'over the sea to Skye' from Glenelg on the mainland to Kylerhea on the Isle of Skye on the community run ferry service, so for the time being this unmissable journey is still available for visitors to the Scottish Highlands.

Looking down the pass on the Ise of Skye side of the crossing with the mountains of Glenelg in the distance
Approaching Kylerhea on the Skye side of the crossing

The access roads on BOTH sides of the crossing traverse mountain passes and therefore through some of the best scenery anywhere in the world, with the added bonus of the Isle of Skye on one side and Eilean Donan Castle on the other.

The Skye ferry does not run in the Winter, however here are the latest sailing times. Please check with the Skye Ferry Website for the latest timetables and prices for cars, motorbikes, bicycles and passengers. The ferry runs every 15 minutes or every 30 minutes at quiet times. The latest estimate for opening of the service is 2nd April 2007 - so please check by calling UK telephone number 01599 522273 or 01599 522253 or 01599 522313

21st March - 22nd May (including Easter Sunday)
Monday - Saturday 09:00-18:00 (No Sunday Sailings)

23rd May - 28th August
Monday - Saturday 09:00-18:00 Sun 10:00- 17:00

29th August - 1st October
Monday - Saturday 09:00-18:00 Sun 10:00- 17:00

The Skye ferry showing cars and people getting on - note the ro-ro turntable arrangement
The Skye ferry showing passengers and vehicles embarking

The Skye ferry Glenachulish sails from the same ferry point that has been used to cross over to Skye since at least 1773 and has fought to stay open ever since. Only in 2007 has funding been made available to the local community, who now run the service, to buy the ferry. The battle has been won for one more year - so help the ferry continue by crossing on one of the last ro-ros over the sea to Skye next time you visit.

The Skye ferry heading in strong currents towards the Isle of Skye
Ramp up Glenachulish heads for Skye in swift waters

The single track roads on BOTH sides of the crossings should be driven carefully as it is narrow in places and a steep drop with sharp bends. However its not unusual to be distracted by buzzards, otters, deer and other wildlife.

The ferry on the Glenelg side note the fast water
The Glenelg ferry on the Glenleg side

Getting here .... From Inverness you head towards Glenelg at the Shiel Bridge Shop & Petrol Station, the sign shows a LEFT turn to Glenelg and the ferry. The road winds its way over Mam Ratagan the ancient road to Glenelg.

Coming from Skye ... the turn off is shortly before or after Kyleakin and is a small road (opposite the Skye airstrip) signed Kylerhea and Skye Ferry.

Map of Glenelg, Skye and Lochalsh
Location of Glenelg

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