Tarbert (Harris) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Tarbert is accessible via regular ferry services operated by CalMac from Uig on the Isle of Skye, with crossings taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes across the Minch. Travelers from mainland Scotland typically drive to Skye via the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh, which is about 5 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh by car. Public transport connections include buses from Inverness to Skye, which connect with the ferry timetable. For those bringing vehicles to Harris, advance ferry reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer months. The ferry terminal in Tarbert is centrally located, with the village amenities just a short walk away.

Nestled in a narrow isthmus between North and South Harris, Tarbert serves as the main settlement and ferry port on the stunning Isle of Harris in Scotland's Outer Hebrides. This charming harbor village offers visitors their first glimpse of Harris's dramatic landscapes, where rugged mountains meet pristine beaches. As the maritime hub of the island, Tarbert welcomes travelers seeking the authentic Hebridean experience with its small but vibrant community, local crafts, and access to some of Scotland's most breathtaking coastal scenery.

The summer months of May through September offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Harris, with long daylight hours extending until late evening in midsummer. July and August bring the warmest temperatures (averaging 14-17°C) but also the highest visitor numbers, making ferry bookings essential well in advance. Spring (April-May) rewards visitors with blooming wildflowers and the possibility of seeing newborn lambs on the hillsides. The shoulder seasons of late May-June and September provide an excellent balance of reasonable weather and fewer crowds. Winter visits (November-March) offer a different perspective with moody skies and dramatic seas, though some local services may operate on reduced hours and ferry crossings can be affected by winter storms.

Tarbert serves as an excellent base for exploring both Harris and neighboring islands by ferry. The nearby Isle of Skye is directly connected via the Uig ferry (1 hour 40 minutes), offering access to its famous mountain ranges and scenic spots. From Leverburgh in South Harris, regular ferries make the 1-hour crossing to the Isle of North Uist, gateway to the southern Outer Hebrides chain including Benbecula, South Uist, and eventually Barra. The Isle of Lewis, geographically part of the same landmass as Harris but culturally distinct, is easily accessible by road from Tarbert, with the main town of Stornoway just 37 miles north. The ferry routes themselves offer spectacular views of the archipelago and chances to spot marine wildlife including dolphins, porpoises, and even whales during summer months.

Tarbert and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of authentic Hebridean experiences. Don't miss the Isle of Harris Distillery in the heart of Tarbert, where you can sample their award-winning gin and learn about their whisky production. The breathtaking beaches of South Harris, particularly Luskentyre and Scarista, showcase Caribbean-like white sands and turquoise waters against a backdrop of mountains. Visit a Harris Tweed workshop to see traditional weavers at work creating the island's famous fabric, with opportunities to purchase directly from producers. The imposing mountains of North Harris provide excellent hiking, with trails suitable for various abilities and stunning views across the Atlantic. For local cuisine, try fresh seafood at the Harris Hotel or sample traditional baking at the Skoon Art Café in nearby Geocrab, where homemade cakes come with magnificent sea views.

Though many assume Harris is a separate island, it actually shares the same landmass as Lewis, with the distinction between the two being purely cultural rather than geographical. The name 'Tarbert' comes from the Norse word meaning 'draw-boat,' referring to the narrow neck of land where Vikings would drag their boats across to avoid sailing around the coast. Harris Tweed is the only fabric in the world protected by its own Act of Parliament, ensuring it must be handwoven at the homes of weavers in the Outer Hebrides. The beaches of Harris served as a stand-in for Jupiter in Stanley Kubrick's film '2001: A Space Odyssey,' with the otherworldly landscape of Luskentyre providing the perfect alien backdrop.