Prices have finally changed but I am still full of admiration for what this small community have achieved here. My first visit here was in the noughties when all there was was a short, drying pontoon and the Calmac ferry pier. All by volunteers.

I've added a link to the tides around Rathlin Island and the NE corner of Northern Ireland which may be of use to the cruising sailor.

I reviewed these notes in July 2021. Prices are up-to-date and facilities have improved.

These notes were reviewed in May 2019. This place is becoming a regular stop for skippers who cruise these waters and most are impressed with what has been done here. Prices remain the same and I've uploaded this year's charts. Their plans for a breakwater are on hold for the moment.

Just visited June 2018 and new pontoons in place. New very clean showers and Laundry facilities in Harbour office, 3 minutes walk from pontoons. Prices ,<10m £18, >10m £20, Hammerhead (up to 30m boat) £35. Electric and water inclusive. Wish we had planned to stay another night.

I am a regular visitor here. Navigation is straightforward and we have never failed to get a pontoon berth. We rode out a SW F9 gale here. This is the one direction the pontoons are vulnerable from and the harbourmaster positioned us on the East side of the pontoon, bows to the wind and advised on mooring lines, fendering and anti-chafe precautions. None of the boats in the anchorage had any problems.
The tidal range is neglible so the fact that there is only 1.5m below the keel at HW is not a cause for concern.

The island is a whisky-lovers paradise and we always go for the Whisky festival at the end of May. Ardbeg is our firm favourite.

The Islay Hotel in Port Ellen does superb food. We have never had a bad meal. Will be back in about a month for the 2015 festival.

These notes were reviewed by Don in April 2015. Improvements to the pontoons are in place for the 2015 season and their prices remain unchanged.
We are enquiring about a new facility round the corner in Lagavulin Bay which may be installing visitors pontoons as well as providing a chandlery service.