Orkney is easily accessible
Orkney is easily accessible from Mainland Scotland by ferry. You can take a vehicle on all of the ferries below.
From AberdeenNorthlink operate a comfortable, modern ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall 4 times a week and from Kirkwall to Aberdeen 3 times a week. The crossing takes 6-7 hours. There is an onboard bar, 2 restaurants, a gift shop and even a cinema. Cabins are available.
For more information please see their website
From ScrabsterNorthlink also operate a short sea crossing from Scrabster, near Thurso in Caithness. Running throughout the day, the crossing only takes 90 minutes and passes by the famous Old Man of Hoy.
For more information please see their website
From Gils BayPentland Ferries runs a modern catamaran on their short sea crossing from the very north of Caithness at Gils Bay. The crossing takes just an hour. It is a local, family run company and they do not require photo ID for travel.
For more information please see their website
By Air
With Flybe
Flights are available at least daily from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Shetland to Kirkwall. These flights are operated by Scottish airline Loganair for Flybe. Passengers are offered free in-flight drinks and on a nice day, unparalleled views of the Orkney isles from the air.
For more information please see their website
With British Airways
If you are travelling from further afield you can book with BA, connecting to one of the Loganair / Flybe flights to Kirkwall.
For more information please see their website
Taxis, car hire and bus services are available on your arrival to Kirkwall Airport; we are approximately a 10-minute drive from the airport.