Impressive vessels serve Rathlin Island

NESTLING between the north east coast and the wild beauty of the Mull of Kintyre, Rathlin Island is Northern Ireland's only offshore inhabited island.

Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd operates a ferry service between bustling Ballycastle and the peaceful L-shaped island with two impressive vessels.

The Rathlin Express is a custom built 18-metres long catamaran that crosses to the island in just 20 minutes while The Canna crosses in 40 minutes and carries cargo from the mainland to the islanders who are lucky enough to call Rathlin their home.

This tranquil haven is famed for its flora, fauna and its spectacular seabird colony and seals are always on show at Church Bay and Mill Bay.

And Rathlin is simply bursting with myths and legends. It is said that the island was the refuge for Scottish hero Robert the Bruce who was inspired by a spider to return and successfully regain his throne.

Stories also tell of how the Children of Lir spent 300 years in the Sea of Moyle.

Because of the fast and frequent ferry service from Ballycastle, Rathlin Island can be included in the Causeway Coast circuit as Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery are all within 12 miles of Ballycastle.

Rathlin Island Ferry provides some fabulous group packages which include an island bus tour, meals, the knowledge of an expert guide and activities on the island.

For more information please visit: www.rathlinballycastleferry.com