Ferry to Eriskay

As there are no current sailings on this route we cannot show ferry schedules at this present time.

There are no current operators on this route.

Eriskay is accessible via a causeway from South Uist, making it relatively straightforward to reach by road once you're in the Outer Hebrides. Travelers typically arrive at Lochboisdale on South Uist by ferry from Mallaig or Oban on the mainland, with journey times ranging from 3.5 to 5 hours depending on the route. Regular bus services connect with ferry arrivals, providing transport to the Eriskay causeway. If driving, follow the A865 south through South Uist until reaching the causeway. Parking is available near the ferry terminal, though spaces are limited during peak season.

Nestled in the stunning Outer Hebrides of Scotland, Eriskay is a small island of extraordinary beauty and rich cultural heritage. This enchanting isle spans just three square miles but packs remarkable character into its modest footprint. With pristine white sandy beaches meeting crystal-clear turquoise waters, Eriskay offers visitors a tranquil escape where traditional Gaelic culture thrives alongside breathtaking natural landscapes.

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers the most pleasant conditions to visit Eriskay, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures averaging 12-16°C. July and August bring the warmest weather and coincide with local ceilidhs and the annual Eriskay Pony Show, celebrating the island's native ponies. Ferry services run more frequently during summer months, making island-hopping more convenient. Spring visits reward travelers with fewer tourists and the spectacle of wildflowers carpeting the machair grasslands, while September offers stunning golden landscapes and the chance to spot migrating birds.

Eriskay serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the spectacular Outer Hebrides chain. From here, you can take a short 40-minute ferry ride to Barra, home to the world-famous beach airport and stunning coastal scenery. North Uist is accessible via South Uist (connected by causeway) and offers remarkable prehistoric sites and abundant wildlife, particularly birdlife on its western shores. The isle of Benbecula, reachable within an hour, presents wonderful opportunities for fishing and hiking across its flat, loch-dotted landscape. The ferry connections between these islands create perfect opportunities for memorable island-hopping adventures through this remarkable archipelago.

Eriskay offers authentic experiences that connect visitors to its natural beauty and fascinating history. Walk the powder-white sands of Prince's Beach (Coilleag a' Phrionnsa), where Bonnie Prince Charlie first stepped ashore in Scotland in 1745. Spot the famous Eriskay ponies, a rare native breed that roams freely across the island's hills. Sample traditional Scottish fare and perhaps a dram of 'The Politician' whisky at the Am Politician pub, named after the famous 1941 shipwreck that inspired the novel 'Whisky Galore.' For active travelers, the clear waters around Eriskay provide excellent conditions for fishing, while hillwalkers can enjoy panoramic views across the archipelago from the island's modest summits.

Eriskay gained fame as the setting for the real-life events behind the beloved novel and film 'Whisky Galore,' when the SS Politician ran aground in 1941 carrying 264,000 bottles of whisky, many of which were salvaged by resourceful islanders. The island's name comes from the Norse word 'Erik's ey,' meaning 'Erik's island,' reflecting its Viking heritage. Eriskay is home to a unique hand-knitting tradition, with the distinctive Eriskay jersey featuring a raised diamond pattern said to represent the island's fishing nets. The Eriskay Love Lilt, one of Scotland's most beautiful traditional songs, originated on this small island and has been performed worldwide.