Kirkwall Ferry

Kirkwall ferry port in Orkney Islands is served by a number of ferry routes with crossings to Aberdeen & Lerwick available. With a selection of up to 7 Sailings Weekly, the port of Kirkwall connects Orkney Islands with Scotland & Shetland Islands.

Sailing durations range from 7 hours 15 minutes on the Aberdeen service to 7 hours 45 minutes on the Lerwick service.

Although there is a brief summary on this page, as sailing information can vary based on time of year we’d advise you to get live sailing times and prices in our Kirkwall fare search.

Kirkwall

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Kirkwall Ferry Services

  • Northlink Ferries
    • 3 Sailings Weekly 7 hr 15 min
    • Get price
  • Northlink Ferries
    • 4 Sailings Weekly 7 hr 45 min
    • Get price

Kirkwall Ferry Port

Kirkwall Port is situated on what’s known as the ‘mainland’ of the Orkney archipelago, with the city of Kirkwall the capital of the Orkney Islands. Once a quiet town renowned for the peaceful atmosphere among historical landmarks, Kirkwall has quickly transformed itself into a bustling market town boasting a shopping centre and copious restaurants. The city does still provide satisfaction for those that enjoy history and cultural landmarks – the St. Magnus Cathedral is widely recognised as the finest medieval building in the north of Scotland. Despite its recent revival, the town still owes much of its income to the port, which is regarded as the gateway between Scotland and the Orkney Islands.

Ferry routes to Aberdeen and Lerwick run a few times a week by Northlink Ferries, the only company operating in the area. The port is only 1.5km from the city centre, so is easily within walking distance, especially considering the picturesque streets leading to the harbour. The port facilities are found towards the north of Harbour Street, the road that runs from east to west across the waterfront.

Walking around the small, narrow streets is regarded as the best way to get around the city, although there is a bus service that runs to the main sites in the town. Taxis are also readily available at the pier, though it is advised to negotiate a price before entering.

How To Get To Kirkwall Ferry Port

  • Kirkwall Ferry Port Address

    Hatston Quay, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1RQ

  • Kirkwall Accommodation

    If you’re looking to spend a night at or near Kirkwall Ferry port before or after your trip or if you are looking for accommodation for your entire stay, please visit our Kirkwall Accommodation page for the best accommodation prices and one of the largest selections available online!