Find and book ferry tickets to and from Uig
An iconic view of Uig
Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.
Reaching Uig's Harbor
Uig is accessible via the A87 and A855 roads that wind through the Isle of Skye, approximately 25 minutes north of Portree, the island's main town. Visitors from mainland Scotland typically cross to Skye via the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh (a 1-hour drive to Uig) or the Mallaig-Armadale ferry (followed by a 1.5-hour drive). Regular bus services connect Uig with Portree and other Skye destinations, with timetables often coordinated with ferry departures. If driving, the ferry terminal offers a convenient car park where vehicles can be left while exploring the Outer Hebrides. For those traveling from further afield, car hire is available in Portree or at mainland transport hubs.
Uig: Gateway to the Outer Hebrides
Nestled on the stunning Trotternish Peninsula of Skye, Uig serves as a vital maritime gateway to the enchanting Outer Hebrides. This picturesque harbor village offers travelers their first glimpse of Skye's dramatic landscapes, with rolling hills cascading down to a sheltered bay. Beyond its role as a ferry hub, Uig charms visitors with its tranquil atmosphere, local craftsmanship, and access to some of Scotland's most breathtaking coastal scenery.
When to Experience Uig at Its Finest
Uig and the Isle of Skye enjoy their most reliable weather from May through September, with long daylight hours and temperatures typically ranging from 12-18°C (54-64°F). July and August bring the warmest conditions but also the heaviest tourist traffic, making the shoulder months of May, June, and September ideal for balancing pleasant weather with more tranquil experiences. Winter visits (November-March) offer a raw, atmospheric beauty with fewer crowds, though ferry services may occasionally face weather disruptions. The Skye Festival in July and the Highland Games events throughout summer add cultural richness to a high-season visit, while spring brings spectacular wildflower displays to the surrounding landscapes.
Island Adventures from Uig's Shores
From Uig's harbor, regular ferry services connect travelers to the captivating islands of Harris and North Uist in the Outer Hebrides, with crossings taking approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Harris beckons with its world-famous beaches at Luskentyre and Scarista, where white sands and turquoise waters create Caribbean-like vistas against a distinctly Scottish backdrop. North Uist offers a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts with its mosaic of freshwater lochs, moorland, and beaches where otters, eagles, and seals thrive in protected habitats. The island of Berneray, connected to North Uist by causeway, rewards visitors with a 3-mile stretch of pristine beach and traditional crofting culture. Uig's strategic position makes it the perfect starting point for an unforgettable island-hopping adventure through Scotland's western isles.
Experiences to Savor in Uig
While waiting for your ferry connection, Uig offers several worthwhile experiences within easy reach of the terminal. The Uig Pottery produces distinctive hand-thrown ceramics that make perfect souvenirs, while the Isle of Skye Brewing Company nearby offers tours and tastings of their craft beers. Nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the short hike to the Fairy Glen, a mysteriously beautiful landscape of conical hills and twisted trees just a mile from the harbor. For culinary delights, sample fresh seafood at the Uig Hotel or enjoy hearty pub fare at the Ferry Inn, where local specialties like Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup) and venison dishes showcase Scottish Highland cuisine. The Skye Museum of Island Life, a short drive north, provides fascinating insights into traditional island living through preserved thatched cottages.
Uig's Hidden Stories
Uig harbors several intriguing secrets beneath its tranquil surface. The area gained archaeological fame in 1831 when the 'Uig Chessmen' - 93 elaborately carved 12th-century Norse chess pieces made from walrus ivory - were discovered buried in the sand dunes, now showcased in the British Museum and Edinburgh's National Museum of Scotland. Viking heritage runs deep here, with the name 'Uig' deriving from the Old Norse 'vik' meaning 'bay' or 'inlet'. The nearby Fairy Glen, while natural in origin, has inspired countless local legends and was formed not by mythical creatures but by an ancient landslip that created its distinctive miniature landscapes. Uig also played a role in the historic 'Battle of the Braes' during the 19th-century Highland Clearances, a pivotal moment in Scottish land reform.
FAQs