The Isle of Bute - getting there

A glimpse of the ferry terminal through the palm trees

The Wemyss Bay to Bute ferry service has recently seen the introduction of two brand-new boats, The MV Bute, and MV Argyll.

Major harbour improvements at Rothesay are a further indication of the investment going into this necessary link with the mainland.

Regular Ferries

These large car-ferries run like buses, usually at 45 minute intervals. The boats have plenty of comfortable seating, and on-board facilities include a coffee-shop which offers food and alchoholic beverages too. The journey from Rothesay to Wemyss Bay is a mere 35 minutes, and a regular train service connects the ferry terminal with Glasgow. Regular buses and taxis also serve the port.

At the north end of the island, another ferry makes the shorter crossing, sailing every few minutes, between Rhubodach and Colintraive.

The ferry crossing at Rhubodach

Those exploring Scotland could take advantage of these two ferry services and use the Isle of Bute as a stepping-stone to the Highlands, whilst enjoying the experience of exploring the island on the way.

M V Argyle

The ferries are run by Calmac, and information on their services, plus timetables, can be found at www.calmac.co.uk.

A bus service runs between Rothesay and Dunoon, utilising the Rhubodach to Colintraive ferry, and there is also a service to Kames.

Getting There By Rail

Getting to Bute by rail couldn't be easier. Trains run regularly from Glasgow to Wemyss Bay station, right by the Ferry Terminal!

Use the Search Box alongside to book tickets. TheTrainLine is a fully impartial rail ticketing website providing tickets on all routes and all train operating companies.

Customers can save 43% if they book online compare to at the station on the day of travel.

You will get direct access to an extensive choice of train journeys without the usual queues and hassles associated with buying a train ticket!

Convenient Airports

And lets not forget that Bute has not one, but TWO international airports on the doorstep - Glasgow and Prestwick. (Make that three if you count Edinburgh!) Budget flights to Europe are just a few miles away.

All in all, Bute is a convenient island for the Scottish traveller to visit. It's just a short hop across from the mainland, and, with it being served by regular ferries at the north end of the island too, makes it a logical addition to any Scottish holiday excursion.