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The Northlink Ferries shipping company
For more than 30 years, the shipping company P&O Scottish Ferries was responsible for crossings from the Scottish mainland to the Orkney and Shetland Islands.
In 2002, the task was taken over by the two shipping companies Northlink Orkney and Shetland Ferries. Today, the international service company Serco operates the ferry services under the name Northlink Ferries. However, there is interest in putting them in public hands.
Safe and comfortable to the northern islands
Three ferries ensure a comfortable and safe passage to the north of Scotland. All ships are equipped with restaurants, bars and lounges. There are shopping facilities, cinemas and play areas on board.
A comfortable sleeper chair or cabin can be booked on request.
There is a choice of inside and outside cabins for up to four people. People with (walking) disabilities expect accessibility. When transporting pets, please note that they may not be taken into public passenger areas or cabins.
Major Northlink Ferries ferry routes
On two routes Northlink Ferries connects the Scottish mainland with the northern islands. The service from Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) operates three times a day and takes 90 minutes.
The direct route from Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) is offered daily and takes around 12 hours and 30 minutes.
If the Ferry also calls at Kirkwall (Orkney) on its way, the travel time is extended accordingly.
Current Northlink Ferries ferry connections
These are the current ferry connections from Northlink Ferries:
| Route | Country of origin & country of destination | Number & Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry Aberdeen – Kirkwall | Scotland, Great BritainOrkney Islands, Great Britain | up to 4 times a week 6 hours |
| Ferry Aberdeen – Lerwick | Scotland, Great BritainShetland Islands, Great Britain | up to 7 times a week 12 hours 30 minutes |
| Ferry Kirkwall – Lerwick | Orkney Islands, Great BritainShetland Islands, Great Britain | up to 4 times a week 7 hours 45 minutes |
| Ferry Scrabster – Stromness | Scotland, Great BritainOrkney Islands, Great Britain | 3 times a day 1 hour 30 minutes |
Northlink Ferries Destinations
You can reach these destinations with Northlink Ferries ferries: