Frequently Asked Questions: NorthLink Ferries boarding

Where do I go to board the ferry?

At the terminal please go to the Check-in desk. You will be notified when the ship is ready for boarding. Please note that once on board you may not come ashore again prior to sailing (this is a Marine Law requirement)

Can you help disabled or frail passengers?

We will provide staff to assist passengers when required. Please let us know in advance.

Do I have to board via a gangway?

Covered walkways are now in use at all ports.

When can I board?

Passengers may check in and board in Aberdeen and Lerwick any time from two hours to thirty minutes prior to departure. At Kirkwall you should check in and be waiting to board when the ship arrives as the ‘turn round’ time is only 45 minutes.

In Stromness and Scrabster please check in leaving plenty of time for boarding. If you are leaving Stromness on the early morning sailing and have booked a cabin you may board between 21.30 and 23.30 the previous evening or between 5.45 and 6.15 on the morning of departure.

Whether you are a foot passenger or driving a vehicle your check in times will be explained when you make your reservation.

I’m bringing my car but don’t like the idea of driving it aboard a ferry. Can you help?

On certain routes we are pleased to offer ‘Valet Parking’ (available Lerwick to Aberdeen, Aberdeen to Lerwick, Kirkwall to Lerwick and Kirkwall to Aberdeen routes only). For a small charge we will arrange to load your car whilst you board as a foot passenger. On arrival in either Aberdeen or Lerwick we will unload your car and leave it, locked, in the terminal car park. You may then stay on board to enjoy a complimentary breakfast and leave the ship at your leisure, collecting your keys at the check-in desk. The spaces available for this service are limited, so advance booking is essential.

What happens about my luggage?

If you are travelling with your car, please take only your overnight requirements with you. For safety reasons there is no access to car decks during sailings. If you are a foot passenger, your baggage should be checked in at the terminal. You will place it on to a trailer and it will be taken on board for you and stored. Upon arrival it will be unloaded. Please keep any items you need onboard with you as there is no access to checked-in baggage during the voyage. Labels for luggage will be issued at check in. Please note that whilst we take every possible care of your baggage, it is left at your own risk.

Is there a left luggage facility at the Aberdeen terminal?

A left luggage facility is available to passengers who are booked for the same day's sailing from 08:00 up until 2 hrs 15 mins before departure. Luggage must be labelled for the onward voyage (eg Kirkwall or Lerwick). It is the responsibility of passengers to transfer their own luggage from the left luggage facility to the luggage trolleys. All items of baggage are left at the owners risk and may be subject to searching if regulations require.

What items are prohibited from taking onboard?

Passengers are advised that a number of items that could be adapted or intended for use as an offensive weapon are not allowed on board ship without valid lawful reason. These items include:

• firearms
• ammunition
• all explosives (including fireworks)
• sharp pointed and blunt weapons
• a range of knives
• any form of sword blades
• open razors
• archery and martial arts equipment
• incapacitating and inflammable substances.

If you require further information or intend to travel with any of the above items please contact a member of staff for guidance or visit NorthLink Ferries Ltd, Kiln Corner, Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1QX Tel: 01856 885500 Fax: 01856 879588 Email: info@northlinkferries.co.uk

PETS

Can I travel with my dog or cat?

Pets may be left in (ventilated) vehicles but consider the length of your journey and be aware that you cannot have access to the car deck during the voyage for safety reasons. Kennels for dogs and cats are available for a small charge and should be booked in advance. If you have a number of pets they may share kennels, according to size. The kennel room is heated and ventilated, and there is a water supply. You may visit your pets in the kennels during the voyage, and there is access from the kennels to the open decks should you wish to exercise your pet.

With the exception of support dogs, animals are not allowed in public areas or cabins.

How many kennels are there and what are the dimensions?

We have purchased an animal accommodation system, purpose built for our vessels, from a major supplier. Each ship will have 13 kennels of varying sizes;

4 x large animal unit   800mm (width) x 1400mm (depth) x 1000mm (height)

9 x small animal unit   500mm x 700mm x 600mm

The units have solid walls, ceilings and floors, with wire mesh front gates, and are raised from the floor to avoid draughts and for ease of cleaning.