Where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, NorthLink Ferries can help you find the low-lying, gently sloping, fertile islands of Orkney. With quiet 
sandy beaches, stunning scenery, astounding archaeology, mouth-watering cuisine and warm, welcoming hospitality, Orkney is the ideal place for a holiday where you can get away from the stresses of modern-day life.
Older than the pyramids, Orkney has unbeatable archaeological treasures. Inhabited for more than 6,000 years, Orkney offers a wealth of remains from Neolithic settlements, tombs and henges, iron age brochs, Norse settlements and churches to more recent Second World War remains.
The islands are about 85 km long and 37 km wide with around 20,000 people living mostly in the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness. At the heart of Orkney, Kirkwall is dominated by the magnificent red sandstone St Magnus Cathedral and has a wealth of interesting shops and cafés, art galleries and museums to explore.
In the south west, Stromness and its picturesque harbour is the home port of NorthLink’s MV Hamnavoe. After an exciting extension project, the Pier Arts Centre re-opened in 2007, on the town’s waterfront. It houses a fascinating collection of paintings and sculptures, including the valuable 20th century art collection of Margaret Gardiner.
Take a trip to these peaceful low lying islands of enormous skies to spend your holiday where life is gentler and the welcome is warm, where the azure waters hide the dramatic history that lies beneath.
Booking directly with NorthLink Ferries on www.northlinkferries.co.uk is cheaper than booking with another website and we never charge for any amendments made 
to your booking!Q What makes the Pier Arts Centre so special?
A We have a superb collection of 20th-century art including artists like Ben Nicholson and Barbara Hepworth. But we also have some fine historic buildings with links back to the Hudson’s Bay Company. Our new extension provides a striking new addition to the Stromness shoreline and links the whole complex together.
Q How does local art feature?
A We have a year-round changing programme of exhibitions that includes local, Scottish and international artists across a range of different media.
Q How has the re-opening gone?
A Fantastic. The visitor feedback has been totally positive and we’re back to our normal seven day opening in the summer and six days in the winter. As a free attraction, the new Pier Arts Centre really is a splendid place to spend time.
