Search live Oban to Castlebay (Barra) ferry prices
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The Oban to Castlebay (Barra) ferry
Oban to Castlebay is one of CalMac's longest and most scenic crossings, a passage of around five hours from the harbour town of Oban out to the Isle of Barra at the southern tip of the Outer Hebrides. The ship threads through the Inner Hebrides before reaching the open water and the wonderful approach to Castlebay, where Kisimul Castle sits on its rock in the middle of the bay. Barra is a jewel of the Western Isles, famed for its white-shell beaches, machair, and the beach airport where planes land on the tidal sands. The ferry carries cars, motorhomes, bikes and foot passengers, generally with one sailing a day, so timetables matter when planning. Booking vehicle space well ahead is strongly advised, particularly in summer when Barra is a popular island-hopping destination.
- Long, scenic crossing to Barra in around five hours
- Memorable arrival at Castlebay past Kisimul Castle
- Barra is famed for white-shell beaches and its beach airport
- Departs Oban, the 'Gateway to the Isles'
Ports & operators on this route
Oban to Castlebay (Barra) ferry — common questions
How long is Oban to Castlebay?
Around five hours out to the Isle of Barra in the southern Outer Hebrides.
Who operates the Barra ferry?
CalMac (Caledonian MacBrayne) runs the Oban to Castlebay crossing.
How often does the Barra ferry sail?
Generally once a day, so it is worth checking the timetable carefully and booking vehicle space well ahead in summer.