Getting There
Orkney can be accessed by a number of ferry operators: Pentland Ferries with sailings from Gills Bay to St Margaret’s Hope; and Northlink Ferries with sailings from Scrabster to Stromness, and from Aberdeen to Kirkwall. Shetland is accessed by the Northlink Ferries overnight crossing from Aberdeen to Lerwick.
Northlink Ferries
Providing excellent standards of service and dining, their minicruise is always a popular option for exploring the Orkney and Shetland Isles.
• Boarding 30 minutes prior to departure and no queuing
• Reserved dining area for groups with carvery dinner and self-service breakfast
• 20 twin cabins allocated per group with side by side berths and en suite shower room
• Onboard facilities include a shop, cinema and bar
• Full names are required for all passengers prior to departure and photographic ID is required on board the ferries
• A coach valet service is available on the ferry to assist with adhering to drivers' hours regulations. A charge applies
• For easier cabin access, Northlink recommends that passengers travel with hand luggage only on board ship
The Orkney Islands
The enchanting Orkney Islands are located just 10 miles north of the coast of mainland Scotland, separated by the Pentland Firth. This archipelago consists of 70 islands, 20 of which are inhabited. With some of the oldest and best preserved Neolithic sites in Europe, the 'Heart of Neolithic Orkney' is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. A must is time at leisure in the vibrant, cosmopolitan capital Kirkwall, which has retained its Viking spirit and identity.
Highlights can include: Standing Stones of Stenness, Skara Brae, Skaill House, Scapa Flow, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel, Ring of Brodgar, The Old Man of Hoy, St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishop’s and Earl’s palaces.
Suggested Hotels in Orkney: Kirkwall Hotel, Ayre Hotel and Orkney Hotel.
The Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are located as close to Norway as to Aberdeen, and nowhere in Shetland is more than 3 miles from the sea! This archipelago consists of approximately 100 islands, 16 of which are inhabited. Its natural, rugged beauty and magnificent coastlines make it a joy to tour. The best known archaeological site in Shetland is Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement, dramatically located on a headland overlooking the West Voe of Sumburgh. The capital is bustling Lerwick, dating from the 17th century. Sheltered by the island of Bressay, it has an excellent natural harbour and is a hive of activity in the summer months.
Highlights can include: Jarlshof, Mousa Broch, Scalloway Castle, Scalloway Museum, Yell and Unst, Muckle Flugga, Eshaness Cliffs, Crofthouse Museum, Shetland Jewellery, Tangwick Haa Museum and Shetland Museum & Archives.
Suggested Hotels in Shetland: Shetland Hotel and Busta House Hotel.
All tours are tailored to your requirements and can be adapted for travel by coach and/or air as you prefer. Occasionally itineraries change. Please see our current brochure or contact us for the latest version.