Aberdeen to Kirkwall
NorthLink Ferries
United Kingdom · Ferry destination
Kirkwall Ferries & Port Guide
Explore Kirkwall ferry connections in the United Kingdom, with port guidance and links to the relevant route guides.
Discover Kirkwall
Ferry connections and port planning in the United Kingdom
Kirkwall is Orkney’s principal town and a key call on the Aberdeen–Lerwick route. From the terminal, road links reach the Mainland’s archaeological sites, Stromness and island accommodation.
This guide brings together 1 route guide involving Kirkwall. Open a crossing below for its departure and arrival ports, operator information and practical planning details.
Ferry connections
Ferry routes involving Kirkwall
These are route guides for planning a trip to or from Kirkwall. Sailing dates, seasonal operation and availability must be checked for the journey you intend to make.
Arriving or departing by ferry
Planning your Kirkwall port visit
Use the terminal named on your booking when arranging a transfer or planning the drive. Include time to reach check-in, and allow for disembarkation before committing to a bus, train or onward ferry.
If you are joining separate ferry journeys, check each leg and leave a practical connection margin.
Main town of Orkney
Road access across Orkney Mainland
Useful connection for island touring
Build a ferry itinerary through Kirkwall
EUFerry’s directional guides connect Kirkwall with Lerwick, Shapinsay, Westray, Sanday, Aberdeen. Choose the direction you will actually travel, then match the sailing with the terminal and the transport needed before boarding or after landing.
Departing from Kirkwall: Kirkwall to Lerwick · Kirkwall to Shapinsay · Kirkwall to Westray · Kirkwall to Sanday · Kirkwall to Aberdeen.
Arriving in Kirkwall: Aberdeen to Kirkwall · Shapinsay to Kirkwall · Westray to Kirkwall · Sanday to Kirkwall · Lerwick to Kirkwall.
For a short stay in Kirkwall, place any activity between the time you can realistically leave the ferry terminal and the time you need to return for check-in. On separate tickets, allow for disembarkation and the local transfer; an excursion meeting point is not necessarily beside the ferry berth.
Local planning references: Kirkwall in Google Maps · VisitBritain — official visitor information.
Use the map to understand the surrounding area and the visitor information to plan time ashore. For the exact boarding location, accessibility arrangements and operating notices, follow the ferry company’s instructions.
Common planning questions
Kirkwall ferry FAQs
Which places can I research from the Kirkwall guide?
The route guides on this page cover Aberdeen. Check the specific sailing calendar before assuming a crossing runs on your dates.
How do I search for Kirkwall ferry tickets?
Use the ferry search link on this page, then enter the actual departure port, destination and travel date. Confirm the route and operator shown in the results.
Can I take a car or travel without one?
Passenger and vehicle options depend on the route and vessel. Select the correct travel type and check the itinerary before booking.
Continue planning
Check Ferry Fares
Compare ferry journeys for Kirkwall
Check live sailing options, passenger fares, vehicle prices and onboard accommodation for your travel dates.