If you're referring to the Mallaig- Armadale ferry vs. Skye Bridge, the short answer (IMHO) is the bridge. It is a shorter route via the ferry; but, we just used it and were expecting a quick trip on the A830- which it was right out of Mallaig. The problem is that, a few miles on (near Loch Morar to around Arisaig, as I recall), there's a roads project that has a long stretch of single track diversions with quite a few constuction vehicles in addition to "normal" traffic. We weren't significantly delayed (on an early May, Friday morning), but I can envision it being quite a mess, quite often. I THINK the additional distance, continuing up the A82 to the A87 and onto the Bridge, would represent less time than the potential delays due to the (admirable, but extensive) project you'll hit going the other way.

When I went to Skye in 2006 - I went on the ferry over to Skye and used the bridge on the return.

The road to Mallaig was from memory very twisty and single track for a section of it but fairly OK on the rest of the run and the road to the bridge is better but it is kind of fun arriving by ferry.

I certainly agree with fofoma that, were it not for the project, it would be enjoyable. Whilst the CalMac ferry isn't that dear; the cost for your vehicle (and how many people) plus any delays that might cause you miss your reservation may not be worth the aggravattion at the beginning of your holiday. Maybe, take it heading home as there's probably little chance of a delay on the Armadale side.

Just back from Portree in Skye. We are in Clydebank and drove up to Fort William and Inverness staying overnight and then got the bridge over to Skye. It was a gorgeous drive with lots of lovely scenery. We came back from Skye to the mainland by ferry and then on to Isle of Mull. As the previous poster said there is about 3 miles of roadworks which really held us up and it will probably will get worse as the season gets busier. Enjoy your break and I am sure you will have a wonderful time as the scenery on Skye is breathtaking.

Ah, but which ferry, that is the question?

I'd highly recommend the ferry from Glenelg to Kylerhea - it is a very short crossing, and a very old fashioned ferry - see www.skyeferry.co.uk - however it is a stunningly beuatiful route, and much more atmospheric than the bridge!

Basically if you are looking for easy and effortless I'd go by the bridge, but if you have the time and energy I'd go by the ferry either to or from Skye.

bear in mind it only operates 10 am to 7pm so if you are later than this it is not an option.