Frequently Asked Questions: NorthLink Ferries routes and ports

What routes do you operate?

Aberdeen to Kirkwall (Hatston), Orkney and Lerwick, Shetland, and Scrabster, Caithness to Stromness, Orkney.

How often are the sailings?

A ship will leave Aberdeen and Lerwick each evening. Three sailings southbound and four sailings northbound per week are via Kirkwall, although this may reduce over the winter period.

View the NorthLink Ferries timetable.

The Stromness to Scrabster route will operate three times each way on weekdays and two or three times each way on Saturday and Sunday, according to season.

How long are the journeys?

Aberdeen to Lerwick will take about 12 hours, or if via Kirkwall, 14 hours. Stromness to Scrabster will take 90 minutes.

PORTS

Where can I board your ships?

In Aberdeen, Lerwick (Shetland), Kirkwall and Stromness (Orkney) and Scrabster (Caithness).

How do I get to the ports?

Aberdeen ferry terminal is a five minute walk from the bus and railway stations. In Lerwick, Holmsgarth terminal is about 1 mile north of the town centre, opposite the Shetland Hotel, and is served by buses and taxis. Hatston terminal in Kirkwall is about 2 miles from the town centre and, for the evening arrivals and departures, is best reached by taxi or bus. Stromness terminal is located in the town centre. Scrabster is 3 miles from Thurso town centre and rail station and there is a bus connection. For vehicle drivers, all ports are clearly signed.

Is there a bus link between the two ports in Orkney, i.e. Kirkwall and Stromness?

Yes. A bus transfer service for NorthLink passengers is available to and from Stromness, Hatston and Kirkwall to meet with NorthLink's evening arrival and departure sailings from Hatston Pier.