NorthLink Ferries operates a 90-minute crossing operated between Scrabster (near Thurso) on the north coast of Scotland and Stromness. You’ll sail past the Old Man of Hoy and the UK’s highest vertical sea cliffs at St John’s Head before berthing in Orkney’s second largest town.
Where do you get the boat to Orkney?
Take the ferry to Shetland and Orkney
NorthLink Ferries also sail from Scrabster on the north coast of Scotland to Stromness in Orkney. This is the only ferry crossing to take you past the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy. The 90 minute crossing takes place up to three times a day.
Is there a ferry to Orkney?
There are three main ferry routes to and from Orkney. NorthLink Ferries sail between Aberdeen and Kirkwall, with an onward connection to Lerwick in Shetland too. The company also operates a shorter crossing between Scrabster and Stromness.
Where do ferries to Orkney leave from?
The MV Hamnavoe travels from Scrabster at the very north of Mainland Scotland to Stromness in the Orkney islands. This ferry sails up to 6 times a day with the journey only taking 90 minutes and is the only ferry that sails past the iconic Old Man of Hoy.
How long is the ferry crossing to Orkney? – Related Questions
Is Orkney worth visiting?
One of the incredible things about Orkney is how well many of its ancient monuments and archaeological sites have been preserved. One such site is the Broch of Gurness, an Iron Age settlement that can still be visited and admired today.
How long is ferry from Aberdeen to Orkney?
The Aberdeen Kirkwall ferry route connects Scotland with Orkney Islands. Currently there is just the 1 ferry company operating this ferry service, Northlink Ferries. The crossing operates up to 4 times each week with sailing durations from around 6 hours.
How do you get to Orkney Scotland?
Since there are no direct international flights to Orkney, travellers from overseas can fly to Aberdeen, Edinburgh or Glasgow International Airport first and then catch a Loganair flight to Orkney. The flights to Orkney are typically really small planes that carry a handful of passengers.
How long is the ferry from John O Groats to Orkney?
John O’Groats is the gateway to the Orkney Islands. With a crossing that’s only 40 minutes, you’ll soon be enjoying these spectacular islands – voted the second best islands in the UK by TripAdvisor, 2014.
How do I get to the Orkneys from London?
Train, ferry, bus • 17h 27m
- Take the train from London Kings Cross to Inverness.
- Take the train from Inverness to Thurso.
- Take the ferry from Scrabster Ferry Terminal to Stromness Orkney Ferry Terminal Nl1.
- Take the bus from Stromness, Travel Centre to Firth, Quanterness Cottages 8S.
Is there a ferry from Inverness to Orkney?
There is a ferry on four days per week during the summer and it departs at 1700, arriving into Kirkwall at 2345 (6 ¾ hour duration). On the way home there is again only one choice of departure, with the 2345 ferry arriving back into Aberdeen at 0700 the next day.
Can you do a day trip to Orkney?
Orkney Islands Day Tour.
This fantastic full day tour will allow you to explore the fantastic highlights of Orkney. Visit Skara Brae (stoneage village), Scapa Flow, Stromness, Kirkwall, Churchill Barriers, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness and the Italian Chapel.
Do I need a car on Orkney?
Most people arrive in Orkney with their own vehicle and it can be hugely beneficial when it comes to ticking off all the sites on your island itinerary. Most of our roads are relatively quiet, although things are slightly busier in places like Kirkwall.
Who owns the Orkney Islands?
The South Orkney Islands are part of the Antarctic Treaty System, which means that they are not technically owned by any country. However, Argentina and the U.K. have both made claims upon these islands in the past.
What language is spoken in Orkney?
In the present day the Scots language is spoken in Orkney and Shetland, but there are a smattering of words (some used in both island groups) heavily influenced by Norn.
Which is better Orkney or Shetland?
Orkney is a world leader in terms of ancient archaeology. When it comes to Viking relics, Shetland offers up longhouses, longships and fiery celebrations. Both islands are rich in wildlife and beautiful beaches, and dish up excellent local food. In the end, it’s up to you
What do you call someone from Orkney?
Orcadians, also known as Orkneymen, are an ethnic group native to the Orkney Islands, who speak an Orcadian dialect of the Scots language, a West Germanic language, and share a common history, culture and ancestry.
What is the main religion in Orkney?
The Protestant religion prevails in the isles of Orkney, according to the rites and discipline of the kirk; these, and the isles of Shetland, constituting one presbytery, which assembles at Kirkwall. The country is divided into 18 parishes, containing 31 churches, and above 100 chapels.
Do they speak English in Orkney?
Based on West Norse, the Orkney Norn developed and was the predominant language of the islands for about 700 years. From the 15th Century onwards, however, the influence of Scottish English increased and, since the middle of the 18th Century it has been the language of Orkney.
What currency is used in Orkney Islands?
| Pound Scots |
| Penny Scots |
d. |
| Demographics |
| User(s) |
Kingdom of Scotland Earldom of Orkney |
| Issuance |
How many days do you need in Orkney Islands?
You could probably squeeze all this into 2 days, but it would be better to extend to three if possible as that would give you chance to see places like Maeshowe, Broch of Birsay, Broch of Gurness, Kirbuster croft museum and Norse mill I like your suggestions for other places to see.