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EuropeEurope - Western Europe

Islay Cruise Port

Islay
Islay is an island located off the west coast of Scotland.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#427
of 1018 ports in the Europe
Today · high / low
66° / 45°
September normals
Islay cruise port
Europe - Western Europe
Islay
// Islay cruise port overview

The cruise port in Islay,
explained

Lat: 55.7°NLong: 6.2°WTimezone: Europe/LondonINTN code: 9f15

Islay is an island located off the west coast of Scotland. It is known for its whisky production, with eight distilleries located on the island.

Islay is also known for its stunning scenery, with rugged coastlines, white sandy beaches, and rolling hills. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, otters, and a variety of seabirds.

Islay is also home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of Finlaggan Castle, the ancient seat of the Lords of the Isles. The island is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Islay Festival of Music and Malt, which celebrates the island's whisky and music.

Islay is a beautiful and unique island, with something for everyone to enjoy.

// Islay Cruise Port location

Where is Islay Cruise Port?

Islay cruise port is located on the south coast of the Isle of Islay in Scotland. It is situated in the small village of Port Ellen, which is about 8 miles south of the island's capital, Bowmore. The port is easily accessible by car, bus, or ferry from the mainland. It is also a popular destination for cruise ships, with several cruise lines offering regular trips to Islay.

General location
Europe
Category
Europe - Western Europe
Coordinates
55.74°N, 6.18°W
Time zone
Europe/London
Cruise port · 55.74°N, 6.18°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Islay cruise port guide

What to do in Islay

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Birdwatching

Islay is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of species to be seen. The island is home to a large population of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. There are also a number of rare species, such as the corncrake, which can be spotted in the island's wetlands. Cruise passengers can take part in guided birdwatching tours, or explore the island's nature reserves on their own.

Theme 2

Outdoor Activities

Islay is a great destination for outdoor activities. Cruise passengers can explore the island's rugged coastline on foot or by bike, or take part in a range of water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. The island also has a number of golf courses, and visitors can take part in guided tours of the island's historical sites and monuments.

Theme 3

Whisky Tasting

Whisky tasting is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Islay. The island is home to some of the world's most renowned whisky distilleries, including Ardbeg, Bowmore, and Laphroaig. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the distilleries, learn about the whisky-making process, and sample some of the island's finest whiskies.

Islay cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
L

Lagavulin Beach

Lagavulin Beach is a stunning beach located near the Islay cruise port. It is a long, sandy beach with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding area. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby for a bite to eat.

K

Kilchoman Beach

Kilchoman Beach is a beautiful beach located near the Islay cruise port. It is a long, sandy beach with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding area. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby for a bite to eat.

P

Port Ellen Beach

Port Ellen Beach is a stunning beach located near the Islay cruise port. It is a long, sandy beach with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding area. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby for a bite to eat.

// Islay fun facts

A Wildlife Haven

Islay is a haven for wildlife, with a variety of birds, seals, and other animals living in and around the island. The island is also home to a large population of red deer, which can often be seen grazing in the fields and forests. The island is also a great place for birdwatching, with a variety of species including puffins, gannets, and skuas.

A Rich History

Islay has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Iron Age. The island has been home to a variety of cultures, including the Vikings, the Scots, and the English. The island has also been an important trading post for centuries, with whisky, wool, and other goods being traded between Islay and the mainland. Today, Islay is a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to experience the island's unique culture and history.

The Whisky Capital of the World

Islay is known as the whisky capital of the world, with eight active distilleries producing some of the most sought-after single malt whiskies in the world. The island is home to the iconic brands of Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg, as well as the lesser-known but equally delicious whiskies from Bruichladdich, Bowmore, Kilchoman, Bunnahabhain, and Caol Ila.

Islay cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
I

Islay Woolen Mill

The Islay Woolen Mill is a great place to find souvenirs from your Islay cruise port visit. It offers a wide selection of woolen items, including sweaters, scarves, hats, and blankets. You can also find a selection of local crafts and food items, such as jams, chutneys, and cheeses. The shop also has a selection of books and music, making it a great place to pick up a unique souvenir.

T

The Whisky Shop

The Whisky Shop is a great place to find souvenirs from your Islay cruise port visit. It offers a wide selection of whisky, including single malts from all the distilleries on the island. You can also find whisky-related gifts, such as glasses, books, and clothing. The shop also has a selection of local crafts and food items, making it a great place to pick up a unique souvenir.

I

Islay Crafts

Islay Crafts is a great place to find souvenirs from your Islay cruise port visit. It offers a wide selection of handmade items, including jewelry, pottery, and woodwork. You can also find a selection of local crafts and food items, such as jams, chutneys, and cheeses. The shop also has a selection of books and music, making it a great place to pick up a unique souvenir.

// Islay Cruise Port Terminals

Which Islay cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Islay
Pier 1 of 3

Bowmore Cruise Terminal

Bowmore, Isle of Islay, PA43 7JU, UK

Bowmore Cruise Terminal is located in the village of Bowmore on the Isle of Islay. It is the third largest port on the island, and is a popular port of call for cruise ships visiting the island. The terminal has a range of facilities, including a passenger lounge, a café, and a shop. It is also home to a number of local businesses, including a fish and chip shop, a pub, and a gift shop.

Pier 2 of 3

Port Askaig Cruise Terminal

Port Askaig, Isle of Islay, PA46 7RL, UK

Port Askaig Cruise Terminal is located in the village of Port Askaig on the Isle of Islay. It is the second largest port on the island, and is a popular port of call for cruise ships visiting the island. The terminal has a range of facilities, including a passenger lounge, a café, and a shop. It is also home to a number of local businesses, including a fish and chip shop, a pub, and a gift shop.

Pier 3 of 3

Port Ellen Cruise Terminal

Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, PA42 7DU, UK

Port Ellen Cruise Terminal is located in the village of Port Ellen on the Isle of Islay. It is the main port of call for cruise ships visiting the island, and is the largest port on the island. The terminal has a range of facilities, including a passenger lounge, a café, and a shop. It is also home to a number of local businesses, including a fish and chip shop, a pub, and a gift shop.

Wi-Fi

Most hotels and restaurants in Islay cruise port offer free wifi access. Additionally, there are several public wifi hotspots located around the port, including at the Islay Visitor Centre, the Islay Ferry Terminal, and the Islay Airport.

Safety

Islay cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the local authorities. There is a police presence in the area and the port is well-lit at night. Additionally, the port is equipped with CCTV cameras and security guards.

Port address

Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, PA42 7DU

Islay cruise port car rental
Arnold Clark Car & Van RentalEnterprise Rent-A-CarAvis Car RentalEuropcar

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Islay Cruise Port Weather

Europe - Western Europe·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Islay
56°
Avg · °F
Mild, frequent showers
High
66°F
Low
45°F
Rain
4.1 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Islay

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Islay cruise ship schedule

Islay Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Islay today, Monday, September 14, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

// Keep exploring

Popular ports in the Europe

Other ports cruisers visit most in the Europe.

// Questions

Islay cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Islay.

Where is Islay cruise port located?

Islay cruise port is located in Europe. Islay cruise port is located on the south coast of the Isle of Islay in Scotland. It is situated in the small village of Port Ellen, which is about 8 miles south of the island's capital, Bowmore. The port is easily accessible by car, bus, or ferry from the mainland. It is also a popular destination for cruise ships, with several cruise lines offering regular trips to Islay.

Is Islay a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Islay is a great cruise port. It is a beautiful island off the west coast of Scotland, with stunning scenery, a rich history, and plenty of activities to enjoy. There are several cruise lines that offer cruises to Islay, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and P&O Cruises.

How safe is Islay cruise port for passengers?

Islay cruise port has a safety score of 8.4 out of 10, ranking #427 of 1018 ports in Europe. Islay cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the local authorities. There is a police presence in the area and the port is well-lit at night. Additionally, the port is equipped with CCTV cameras and security guards.

What is the weather like at Islay cruise port in September?

In September, Islay cruise port has average high temperatures of 66°F (19°C) and average lows of 45°F (7°C).

How many excursions are available at Islay cruise port?

There are currently 4,574 excursions and tours available at Islay cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Islay cruise port?

Islay cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Birdwatching, Outdoor Activities, Whisky Tasting. Islay is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and sandy beaches. It is a great destination for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and bird watching. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, sailing, and kayaking. Islay is also home to a number of distilleries, offering visitors the chance to sample some of the finest whisky in the world. The island also has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of historical sites and monuments to explore.

Can I rent a car at Islay cruise port?

The nearest car rental options near Islay cruise port are:1. Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental: Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental offers a wide range of vehicles, from small city cars to large vans, to suit all needs. They are located in Port Ellen, just a few miles from Islay cruise port.2. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located in Bowmore, just a few miles from Islay cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs.3. Avis Car Rental: Avis Car Rental is located in Port Askaig, just a few miles from Islay cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs.4. Europcar: Europcar is located in Port Ellen, just a few miles from Islay cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs.

What is the WiFi situation at Islay cruise port?

Most hotels and restaurants in Islay cruise port offer free wifi access. Additionally, there are several public wifi hotspots located around the port, including at the Islay Visitor Centre, the Islay Ferry Terminal, and the Islay Airport.

Where is the cruise terminal at Islay cruise port?

The address of Islay cruise port is Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, PA42 7DU.

What is the Islay Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Islay today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Islay on any past or future date.

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