A compromise here, OH really doesn't like ferry travel, so we have decided to go to Orkney for a day. Can you book the car ferry the previous day, does anyone know? Then we can hopefully choose a calm day. This will be in June.
From Aberdeen or Scrabster?
Foot passengers or taking the car?
Assuming the north coast port, pedestrians probably ok (there’s a day of things to see in Kirkwall) but car less likely, though it might depend on the day of the week. That’s just based on the Arran ferry.
I’d say, pencil in what you’d like to do on the day but have a back up plan. A visit to the Castle of Mey, for example but check: I’ve not memorised when it’s closed for Charles’ visit.
Hopefully someone with first hand experience will have more definitive advice.
Both times we have used Pentland ferries from Gills Bay (just up from John o'Groats). We booked an hour before we sailed just turned up and waited in the queue. On the way back we booked the night before.
It's only an hours sailing to St.Margarets Hope, then a beautiful drive over the Churchill Barriers (must visit the Italian Chapel) on route to Kirkwall.
When I have been to Orkney on business I have used the Pentland Ferry from Gills Bay to St. Margaret's Hope, then driven up to Kirkwall. It's the shortest and cheapest crossing, the one the locals use.
Three routes excluding Aberdeen; shortest is going as a foot passenger from John o’groats.
https://www.orkney.com/news/getting-to-orkney-by-ferry
I’d still have a back up plan in case high winds mean the sea’s too rough for Mr B’s liking.
John o'Groats foot passenger ferry arrives Burwick, nothing there except tea /coffee bar so you need to either catch a local bus or book a coach tour. It's about a 50 minute drive - probably longer on a local bus - from Burwick to Kirkwall.
Pentland Ferries arrive St. Margaret's Hope which is a beautiful village, a couple of little shops, cafe and a hotel with a bar. Worth using that route for the the amazing views of the village as you arrive.
Northlink ferry sails straight into Stromness, another stunning heritage town. Even if you dont sail in there it is not to be missed.
Thanks, I assume you can buy tickets the previous day? as we will be away and I won't have my printer. Not interested in going as foot passengers, we want to see as much as possible.
Yes we just turned up at Pentland and they printed off at the booking office. On the way back we rang and booked for following morning and we just showed booking confirmation on our phones.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Car ferry to Orkney
via mobile 18/3/2022 at 10:28pm
