One Scottish ferry route has been dubbed the ‘most spectacular ferry journey’ as it takes passengers past four breathtaking islands including Eigg, Rum, Muck and Canna, with prices starting from just £5.25
Amy Jones Senior Travel Journalist
02:34, 14 Jan 2026
Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye in Scotland(Image: Getty Images)
Beyond the colossal cruise liners that traverse the Atlantic Ocean, there exist ferry services that whisk passengers to some of the most picturesque locations within mere hours, including destinations across the UK. One particularly stunning ferry route provides an island-hopping adventure with fares beginning at just £5.25.
Scotland is home to hundreds of islands, each boasting dramatic terrain that encompasses jagged cliffs, magnificent sandy shores, volcanic summits, and flourishing wildlife. Among its most renowned is the Isle of Skye, which features spectacular, legendary landscapes including the Old Man of Storr, the Cuillin Mountains, the Quiraing and Fairy Pools.
These breathtaking vistas draw hundreds of visitors annually, yet just to the south of the Isle of Skye lie picturesque ferry routes that enable travellers to admire four magnificent islands. These routes have earned recognition as the “most scenic ferry journey in Scotland” as voyagers glide past towering mountains, undulating hills, and peaceful shores across the serene, azure waters.
These ferry services connect the four principal islands that makeup the Small Isles: Canna, Rum, Muck, and Eigg, a compact archipelago situated within Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. The journey spans anywhere from 30 minutes to five hours, depending upon which island visitors choose to explore, and whether they decide to embark on a day excursion sailing past all four islands.
There are some spectacular islands to admire in Scotland by ferry(Image: Getty Images)
The journey sets off from Mallaig on Scotland’s western Highland coast, before reaching one of the Scottish Isles, offering travellers the chance to embark on a relaxed voyage around all four islands. Visitors can soak up the stunning vistas and admire each island’s spectacular characteristics, which rival those of the nearby Isle of Skye in their beauty, reports the Express.
A Scottish travel enthusiast, who experienced the picturesque route from Mallaig to Muck, posted a clip on Facebook calling it “the most spectacular ferry journey in the whole of Scotland”. Known as The Chaotic Scot, the explorer highlighted that it’s “very budget-friendly too” whilst making the most of the observation deck upstairs and the outdoor areas aboard the vessel.
Throughout her voyage from Mallaig to Muck, she initially took in the panoramic views of the towering Cuillin Mountains visible on the Isle of Skye’s skyline, followed by the “lush landscapes and remote beaches of the mountainous Isle of Rum”. She subsequently sailed past the “peaceful shores and cliffs of Canna”, before being captivated by the “striking outline of the Isle of Eigg and the iconic ridge of An Sgùrr”, a remarkable peak situated on the island.
The traveller shared that she opted for the early morning ferry to the Isle of Muck, a journey that took a hefty five hours. However, this allowed her to take in some of the most breathtaking views across Scotland.
Passengers can glide past the Isles of Rum and Eigg(Image: Getty Images)
The routes, which include Mallaig – Canna – Rum – Muck – Eigg (Small Isles), are serviced by Caledonian MacBrayne ferries, colloquially known as CalMac.
There’s a variety of routes on offer, with prices fluctuating based on the chosen route, but fares start from a mere £5.25. CalMac provides the following fare breakdown:.
Mallaig – Canna
Adult: £7.10 for a single or £14.20 return.
Child: £3.55 single or £7.10 return.
Mallaig – Eigg
Adult: £5.25 single or £10.50 return.
Child: £2.65 single or £5.30 return.
Mallaig – Muck
Adult: £6.05 single or £12.10 return.
Child: £3.05 single or £6.10 return.
Mallaig – Rum
Adult: £5.70 single or £11.40 return.
Child: £2.85 single or £5.70 return.
These are the winter rates for CalMac, valid until 26 March 2026. After this date, prices may be subject to change with the introduction of the summer timetable, effective from 27 March until 18 October 2026. For further details, timetables, and fares, visit the CalMac website.
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