Oban, often dubbed the “Gateway to the Isles,” is a bustling ferry port on Scotland’s West Coast. Operated predominantly by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), it provides essential transport links to several Inner and Outer Hebridean islands.
1. Oban to Craignure (Isle of Mull)
- Operator: CalMac
- Duration: ~45–55 minutes
- Frequency: Up to 8 departures daily, ~49 per week
- Vehicle & Foot Passenger: Both welcome; pets currently not allowed
- Vessels:
- MV Isle of Mull: Main ferry on this route since 1988; carries up to 80 cars and 972 passengers (Note: Limited functionality until repairs complete)
- MV Loch Frisa: Added in 2022 to boost service capacity
2. Oban to Lismore (Achnacroish)
- Operator: CalMac
- Duration: ~55 minutes
- Vehicle & Foot Passenger: Vehicle spaces are limited—booking ahead is advised
3. Oban to Kerrera (via Gallanach)
- Operator: CalMac passenger-only service
- Duration: Only a few minutes
- A charming, frequent hop—Kerrera feels like part of Oban itself and is ideal for walkers and cyclists
4. Oban to Coll & Tiree
- Operator: CalMac
- Duration: Typically 2 hours 40 minutes to Coll, and around 3 hours 50 minutes to Tiree
- Frequency: Coll & Tiree served multiple times weekly; exact schedule varies seasonally
5. Oban to Barra (via Lochboisdale)
- Operator: CalMac
- Duration:
- Direct sailings: ~4 hours 45 minutes
- Via Lochboisdale: ~3 hours 30 minutes
- Frequency: ~7 sailings weekly, fewer in winter; direct or hopscotch routing options available
6. Oban to Colonsay
- Operator: CalMac
- Duration: ~2 hours 15 minutes
- Frequency: Seasonal and under review—recent reports indicate winter service reductions, including just two sailings a week in some cases
7. Island-Hopping with CalMac Hopscotch® Tickets
For adventurers planning to visit multiple islands, CalMac’s Island Hopscotch® 8 ticket is a great value, covering routes from Oban to Barra, Uists, Harris, and Lewis—and allowing return mainland travel via Ullapool
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Booking Strategy: All Oban routes are bookable—especially important for vehicles and summer dates. Without a reservation, try ticket office—but spaces aren’t guaranteed
- Local Connections: Oban ferry terminal offers easy access to:
- Train station (Glasgow line), adjacent bus, taxis, and car hire
- Nearby amenities: petrol station (1 mile), ATM (100 m), convenience store (50 m)
- Service Disruptions: Always confirm live service status, especially in winter or poor weather—CalMac updates voyage changes online
- Seasonal Constraints: Keep an eye on winter service reductions—particularly to Colonsay and some outer routes.