Kirkwall – Lerwick
Ferries to Shetland Islands
Kirkwall – Lerwick
Ferries to Shetland Islands
There are approximately 2 weekly sailings from Kirkwall to Lerwick. This ferry crossing is available with
The Kirkwall Lerwick ferry typically departs from Kirkwall at around 23:45.
The average duration of a Kirkwall Lerwick ferry is around 7h 45m. The fastest sailings are approximately 7h 45m. Sailing times can vary; durations often differ between ferry operators, type of ship and can be impacted by weather conditions.
On average, there are around 2 weekly ferry sailings from Kirkwall to Lerwick. These sailings are provided by Northlink Ferries. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables may differ by season.
Kirkwall Lerwick ferry prices typically range between $69.23* and $447.6*. The average price is typically $299.07*. The cheapest Kirkwall Lerwick ferry prices start from $36.43*. The average price for a foot passenger is $70.43*. The average price for a car is $364.16*.
Pricing will vary depending on the number of passengers, vehicle type, route, and sailing times. Prices exclude service fees.
The distance between Kirkwall and Lerwick is approximately 148.7 miles (239.3km) or 129.2 nautical miles.
Foot passengers are allowed on ferries between between Kirkwall and Lerwick with Northlink Ferries. Please note that the availability of foot passenger services may vary between ferry operators. Use our Deal Finder to get live pricing for foot passenger ferries.
Pets are welcome on board Kirkwall Lerwick ferries with Northlink Ferries. Please also note that your pet may have to stay in the vehicle during the journey unless the ferry operator supplies pet accommodation.
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| Kirkwall - Lerwick Route summary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Country | UK | |
| Destination Country | UK | |
| No. of Operators | 1 | |
| Operators | Northlink Ferries | |
| Average Price | A$304* | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 2 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 7h 45m | |
| First Ferry | 23:45 | |
| Distance | 129 nautical miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 2024-11-05.
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.
Regarded by some as ‘Britain’s Top Port’ Lerwick is one of the most northerly ports belonging to the UK, laying around 160 km off the north coast of mainland Scotland. The only ferry routes operating from Lerwick are to other coastal cities in Scotland, with daily sailings to Aberdeen and three sailings per week to Kirkwall. Due to the relatively small area and its geographical location, Lerwick harbour is the main industry for the region. There is a maritime feel to the entire town; fishing and the ferry industry bring in much of the revenue, and the port holds many boating events per year which attract tourists who have an active interest in maritime. Away from the port, the mountains and hills surrounding Lerwick are prime for embarking on an afternoon stroll; the views are stunning and the sea breeze makes for a refreshing change of pace. There are a couple of museums that are worth a visit, and of course the restaurants serve excellent seafood at reasonable prices. The town is so small that most places are within walking distance; the town centre itself is particularly compact. There are also taxis available for quicker and more convenient transport.
