A pier linkspan, vehicle marshalling area and passenger gangway make Port Ellen one of Islay's two roll-on/roll-off ferry gateways in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. Caledonian MacBrayne runs passenger, car and freight sailings from here to Kennacraig on the mainland, supplying the island and its renowned malt-whisky distilleries. There is no container terminal or standalone customs post; cargo moves as accompanied trailers and breakbulk on the ferry. Since June 2025 the harbour has been closed for a major rebuild expected to last until 2029, with Islay traffic rerouted through Port Askaig. Freight forwarders serving Islay should book via the Kennacraig–Port Askaig route in the meantime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UN/LOCODE of Port Ellen?▼

The UN/LOCODE of Port Ellen is GB PLN. This international code identifies ports and logistics locations worldwide.

Where is the port of Port Ellen located?▼

The port of Port Ellen is located in United Kingdom (North Atlantic Ocean).

What is the size of the port Port Ellen?▼

Port Ellen is a Very Small harbor of type Open Roadstead.

What is the channel depth of Port Ellen?▼

The channel depth of Port Ellen is 3.4 meters.

Location & Weather

55.63333, -6.20000

Channel depth: 3.4 m

Transit time routes from Port Ellen

London → Shanghai London → Shenzhen London → Guangzhou London → Hong Kong London → Tokyo London → Busan

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The information on this page is based on publicly available transport and infrastructure data. The logistics significance of a location may change. All information without warranty.

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