The Port Of Kirkwall
Kirkwall ferry port welcomes ferries from Aberdeen and Lerwick onboard Northlink Ferries.
Kirkwall is the capital of Orkney the largest of around 70 islands. Kirkwall is the main centre of industry and communications, with a population of around 8,000 it is one of the best preserved examples of an ancient Norse town. It is a popular destination for lovers of wildlife and walkers, sailors and anglers as well as bird watchers
From here it is easy for ferry passengers to visit the other surrounding islands 16 of which have thriving communities. New marinas in Kirkwall and Stromness for 2004 create berthing and comfort facilities for visiting yachts. The global significance of Orkney's Neolithic Heartland was recognised with World Heritage Site status in 1999, in common with Stonehenge and the Great Wall of China.
Port of Kirkwall services
Kirkwall is the historic capital of Orkney. The town is centrally located on the main island. Kirkwall is seven miles (11kms) from Finstown, 15 miles (24kms) from St Margaret's Hope and 61 miles (26kms) from the town of Stromness. The Hatston ferry terminal is run by NorthLink Ferries, and is situated approximately two miles (three kilometres) from the town centre.
Shops and dining establishments can be found within a stone's throw of the harbour. Most of Kirkwall's excellent shops can be found on Bridge and Albert streets. Tourist information is provided by the Orkney Tourist Board, and their offices can be found in both Kirkwall and Stromness.
The ferry terminal boasts adequate passenger amenities featuring vending machines providing hot and cold beverages, enquiries and ticket sales, and public pay telephones. Physically handicapped travellers will find specially designated lavatories, and all areas of the terminal are accessible by wheelchair. Please note that the ferry terminal doesn't have a left baggage facility; luggage is left at your own risk.
From Kirkwall Port, there are three weekly ferry crossings available to Aberdeen, Scotland. It takes the ferry approximately 6 hours to reach the Port of Aberdeen from Kirkwall. NorthLink operates the sea voyage and also provides a service to Lerwick on the Shetland Islands, with a sailing time of about 7 hours, 45 minutes.
Enquiries number: +44 1856 873636