Travelling from Aberdeen to Kirkwall? Then the Ferry Aberdeen ⇄ Kirkwall offers you a fast and affordable option for your trip. The ferry takes you up to 4 times a week in 6 hours from Aberdeen (Scotland, Great Britain) to Kirkwall (Orkney Islands, Great Britain).
Table of contents
Check timetable, prices and availability & book
Gib in der Verbindungssuche deine Reisedaten ein um die Fahrzeiten, die aktuellen Preise und die Verfügbarkeit der Fähre Aberdeen - Kirkwall zu prüfen.
Ferry Aberdeen ⇄ Kirkwall Map
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Information about the ferry connection Aberdeen - Kirkwall
| Ferry connection: | Aberdeen ⇄ Kirkwall |
| Ports of the ferry connection: |
|
| Number of crossings: | up to 4 times a week |
| Travel time / journey time: | 6 hours |
| Distance: | 235 Kilometers (ca. 126,9 Nautical miles) |
| Season: | All year round (January - December) |
| Check-in: | until 30 minutes before departure |
| Operator of the ferry connection: |
Northlink Ferries |
Information about the ferry connection Kirkwall - Aberdeen
| Ferry connection: | Kirkwall ⇄ Aberdeen |
| Häfen der Verbindung (Rückreise): |
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| Number of crossings: | up to 4 times a week |
| Travel time / journey time: | 7 hours 15 minutes |
| Distance: | 235 Kilometers (ca. 126,9 Nautical miles) |
| Season: | All year round (January - December) |
| Check-in: | until 30 minutes before departure |
| Operator of the ferry connection: |
Northlink Ferries |
Port information for the ferry connection between Aberdeen and Kirkwall
Aberdeen
In Aberdeen, the “granite city” at the north-east end of Scotland, you can expect impressive architecture built from gray stone and a rich cultural heritage. Explore the historic old town, ...
Here you will find information about the port, the ferry terminals, travel arrangements, and all Ferries to Aberdeen.
Port address
| Ferry port Aberdeen | |
|---|---|
| Street: | Ferry Terminal Bldg, Jamieson's Quay |
| Postcode & city: | AB11 5NP Aberdeen |
| Country: | England (United Kingdom) |
| GPS: | 57.145114, -2.091425 |
Travel information
Arrival by car
Ferries on the main A90 highway, which leads directly to Aberdeen. In Aberdeen, follow the signs to the city center and then the signs to the ferry port. The ferry port is located on Jamieson’s Quay.
Arrival by bus
There are good bus connections in Aberdeen. Buses run regularly from the city center to the ferry port. Check the local bus timetables for exact departure times and stops.
Arrival by train
Aberdeen station is well connected to other cities in the UK. From the train station, it is only a few minutes’ walk to the ferry port, or you can take one of the local buses.
Arrival by plane
Aberdeen Airport offers flights from various cities in England and some international destinations. From the airport, you can take a cab or bus to the city center and then on to the ferry port.
Kirkwall
Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands, is located in the north of Scotland and impresses with its rich history. The city was founded in the 11th century and impresses ...
Here you will find information about the port, the ferry terminals, travel arrangements, and all Ferries to Kirkwall.
Port address
| Ferry port Kirkwall | |
|---|---|
| Street: | Hatston Pier Road |
| Postcode & city: | KW15 1ZL Kirkwall |
| Country: | Orkney Islands, Great Britain |
| GPS: | 58.999127, -2.983514 |
Travel information
Arrival by car
As you are already in Orkney, getting to Kirkwall ferry port (Hatston Pier Road) is relatively easy. The Orkney Islands have a well-developed road network connecting the main towns and villages.
- From Kirkwall: Ferry north on the A960. After about 3 kilometers you will reach Hatston Pier.
- From other places on Mainland (the main island of Orkney): Use the A960, A961 or A965 to get to Kirkwall. Then follow the above directions from Kirkwall to Hatston Pier.
Arrival by bus
Stagecoach operates the public bus service in Orkney. There is a bus service from Kirkwall that runs to Hatston Pier and coordinates with Ferries departures. The bus station in Kirkwall is located in the town center, about 2 kilometers from the ferry terminal.
If you are in another Orkney town, first take a bus to Kirkwall and then change to the bus to Hatston Pier.
Arrival by plane
The nearest airport is Kirkwall Airport, about 5.5 kilometers from Hatston Pier. After landing, you have the following options for getting to the ferry port:
- Cab: Taxis are available at the airport. The ferry ride to Hatston Pier takes about 10 minutes.
- Bus: Stagecoach bus route 3 connects the airport with Kirkwall town center. From there you can take the bus to Hatston Pier.
- Rental car: There are rental car stations at the airport. A rental car will ferry you to Hatston Pier in about 10 minutes.
Note that the Kirkwall ferry terminal (Hatston Pier) is about 3 kilometers outside of Kirkwall town center. Allow plenty of time for your journey, especially if you need to reach Ferry.
Itinerary
The ferry service between Aberdeen and Kirkwall is operated by Northlink Ferries and runs up to four times a week all year round. The crossing takes between 6 and 7 hours 15 minutes depending on the direction and is ideal for traveling around the Scottish coast and the Orkney Islands in comfort.
Check-in & departure at the ports
In Aberdeen, check-in opens 120 minutes before departure, while in Kirkwall (Hatston) it opens 90 minutes before departure. You should check in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as check-in closes at this time. If you are traveling by car, it is recommended that you check in at least one hour before departure.
On board the Ferry
During the crossing with Northlink Ferries, you can look forward to a comfortable journey. There are lounges, a restaurant and a bar on board. You can book a cabin or opt for a relaxed seat. Wi-Fi is available at Ferry, ideal for using your time productively or relaxing.
Arrival at the ports
On arrival in Aberdeen or Kirkwall, motorists will be asked to proceed to the car deck to drive their vehicle off the ship. Pedestrians can usually stay on board until shortly after arrival and then leave the ship via the passenger walkway. From Aberdeen, you can drive directly into the city or continue your journey to other parts of Scotland. Kirkwall is the ideal starting point for exploring the Orkney Islands.
Check timetable, prices and availability & book
Gib in der Verbindungssuche deine Reisedaten ein um die Fahrzeiten, die aktuellen Preise und die Verfügbarkeit der Fähre Aberdeen ↔ Kirkwall zu prüfen.
Alternative ferry connections
To travel from Aberdeen to Kirkwall or from Scotland, Great Britain to Orkney Islands, Great Britain, you can also use one of the following alternative ferry routes:
| Route | Start country & destination country |
Number & Duration of trip |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry Aberdeen – Lerwick | Scotland, Great BritainShetland Islands, Great Britain | up to 7 times a week 12 hours 30 minutes |
Frequently asked questions
Here you will find answers to various questions about travelling from Aberdeen to Kirkwall.
Which Ferries ferries travel from Aberdeen to Kirkwall?
The ferry service between Aberdeen and Kirkwall is currently operated by Northlink Ferries.
How much does the Ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall by car, caravan or motorhome cost?
The ferry fare from Aberdeen to Kirkwall can vary depending on a number of factors, including how busy the ferry is, when you travel, whether you travel with or without a vehicle and other factors. You can check the current price via our travel search.
What is the latest time I have to check in at Ferry Aberdeen-Kirkwall?
You must check in at the port of Aberdeen at least 30 minutes before departure. However, you should plan a little more time for check-in.
What happens if I am not in port on time?
That can happen, of course. However, the Ferry will not wait for you, as the timetable must be adhered to.
As soon as you realize that you will not make it to check-in at the port of Aberdeen or Kirkwall in time, you should contact the shipping company by telephone. You will find the telephone number on your booking confirmation.
How often does the Ferry ferry travel from Aberdeen to Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands?
The Aberdeen-Kirkwall ferry service is currently offered up to 4 times a week.
How long does the Ferry ferry take from Aberdeen to Kirkwall?
The journey time (duration of the crossing) is currently 6 hours.
Can I take my dog with me on the Ferry?
Yes, that’s not a problem. Dogs and smaller pets such as cats travel as normal on Ferry.
Please note that pets must remain in the car during the crossing.
Can I take my car with me on Ferry?
Yes, NorthLink Ferries allows the carriage of vehicles on this route.
Are there cabins for passengers on board the Ferry?
Yes, the Ferries are equipped with cabins that passengers can use during the crossing.
How far in advance should I book my ferry crossing?
It is recommended to book the crossing as early as possible, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability and best prices.
What facilities does Ferries offer during the crossing?
The Ferries have restaurants, lounges, stores and often also offer entertainment programs.
Can I travel as a foot passenger without a vehicle?
Yes, foot passengers can use Ferry without a vehicle.
Are there parking facilities at the ferry terminal in Aberdeen?
Yes, parking is available at the ferry terminal in Aberdeen.
How do I get to the ferry terminal in Aberdeen by public transport?
The ferry terminal in Aberdeen is well connected to the public transport network and is easily accessible from the city center.
Are Ferries accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the Ferries are equipped with facilities for people with reduced mobility.
Can I go on deck during the crossing?
Yes, passengers can move freely on deck during the crossing and enjoy the view.
The car deck is closed during the crossing for safety reasons.
Are there catering options on board the Ferry?
Yes, there are restaurants and cafés that offer meals and drinks.
Check timetable, prices and availability & book
Gib in der Verbindungssuche deine Reisedaten ein um die Fahrzeiten, die aktuellen Preise und die Verfügbarkeit der Fähre Aberdeen ↔ Kirkwall zu prüfen.