Free inter-island ferry travel will be introduced next week for island residents
under the age of 22 within the Outer Hebrides.
The new Scottish Government scheme commences on Tuesday on the Sound of Barra and the Sound of Harris sea routes.
Similar arrangements will apply for Under-22s in Orkney and Shetland.
Young island residents can travel for free as foot passengers on inter-island ferry
services within their own local authority area by showing their Young Scot or National
Entitlement Card.
Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “This new scheme will enable children and young people to travel for free between islands across their local authority area, improving access to education, employment, training, health and social activities and much more.
“I am pleased that from 1 April, this scheme will give them the same opportunities
as free bus travel provides for many children and young people in mainland communities
and was a key commitment in the transport budget for 2025-26.”
She added: “I also remain committed to extending free ferry travel to more young
people on our islands in 2025-26.
“Eradicating child poverty is the single greatest priority of this government and we are committed to giving all of our children and young people the very best chance to succeed in life.”
Long supported by members of the Scottish Youth Parliament, MSYP for Na h-Eileanan
an Iar Alannah Logue said: “Free inter-island ferry travel is something we as young
people living on the islands have been campaigning for over the last couple of years
and it's really exciting to see it come to fruition.
“This extends the accessibility of the under 22s NEC card to young people who do
not rely on buses, but still heavily rely on inter-island ferries as public transport.
This will make opportunities such as extra circular activities, social events and
youth work services more accessible for young islanders, which is something that
is desperately needed in the rural parts of Scotland."
Free inter-
27 March 2025
