What is the best way to get to Barra from the Scottish mainland or South Uist?

If you travel to Barra by sea from Oban or Mallaig on the Scottish mainland, or Lochboisdale on South Uist, you’ll arrive in Castlebay, the island’s main settlement. On Barra’s southern coast, the village overlooks Castle Bay, home to Kisimul Castle. Hiking up Heaval, the island’s highest hill, affords spectacular views of the village and the islands of Vatersay, Sandray, Pabbay, and Mingulay.