My husband and I will be touring a bit of Scotland in October, via rental car. Our route includes a number of ferries. I've found the CalMac schedules and fares on line, and see there is opportunity to reserve space ahead of time. The routes include
1. Kennacraig to Port Askaig (Islay)
2. Askaig to Oban via Colonsay. There is only one sailing on this date (Saturday)
3. Mallaig to Armadale (Skye)
If we should get reservations, do we book for one car and two people, or is the driver included with the car?
Is there any downside to booking ahead, such as no changes?
Thanks for any insight you can provide. This forum is amazing!
Posted by
London
1542 posts
In my experience, you definitely want to book ferries ahead if you're taking a car. Spaces can and do sell out, particularly in high season. In October they might be less likely to sell out but I still would anyway. You need to book one car and two people. I'm not sure how flexible the tickets are so would just check with the CalMac website.
Posted by
Chicagoland
2425 posts
Definitely reserve in advance, especially if there are limited sailings. Generally you can change your reservation online, in person or by phone. The Calmac website FAQS should answer most of your questions.
After you reserve, I would suggest you occasionally monitor the schedule for changes due to maintenance, weather,...
Pay attention to check in times as they can vary by port.
The schedules shift from summer to winter timetables sometime in October.
Posted by
Isle of Skye, Scotland
1705 posts
Yes you need to book in advance or you are extremely unlikely to get a spot. You book for the car and then the number of people including the driver. So driver plus 1 = 2 passengers. It will ask you for a licence plate (registration plate in the UK) but there is an option to say “I don’t know” for rental cars.
Once you have booked you should sign up for text alerts as sometimes there are operational changes due to vessels breaking down or weather.
Posted by
OP
Seattle WA region
10 posts
Thank you all! I'll be making reservations today.
Can't wait to explore Scotland!!