Orkney Islands

Overview

Orkney has two principal cruise gateways, Kirkwall and Stromness, on the island known locally as Mainland. Your arrival point determines the first part of the day: a berth outside Kirkwall involves a transfer, while the town harbour and Stromness put you close to streets and visitor attractions.

The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising Skara Brae, Maeshowe, the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. These are separate archaeological places, not one enclosed attraction beside a cruise pier. Choose a planned excursion or check transport and admissions for each site you intend to visit. A short call is better suited to a focused selection than an attempt to see everything.

For a town-based outing, start with the arrival guidance below and leave time to browse, visit an attraction and return comfortably. For travel beyond town, the local cruise information service links to council bus information and gives distances to major sights. Check both directions before relying on a public bus, and agree a return collection when using a taxi.

Currency is pounds sterling (£), and English is spoken. Emergencies: 999 or 112. Carry a waterproof and warm layer for exposed archaeological sites, and check opening and admission arrangements with each operator.

Ports in This Region

• Kirkwall: Ships can dock at Hatston Pier, dock at Kirkwall Pier or anchor in Kirkwall Bay and tender into the town harbour. The harbour arrivals are central. The council's cruise service places Hatston about 4 km from the centre and provides a complimentary shuttle to Kirkwall Travel Centre (verified 2026-09-07, subject to change). Confirm the shuttle's final return with staff, then choose a town visit or a separately planned journey to Mainland's archaeological sites.
• Stromness: Cruise ships either come alongside at Stromness Pier in the town or anchor and tender into the marina area. The local streets and attractions are within walking reach, making this a convenient base for an unhurried visit that can include Stromness Museum, subject to its current opening arrangements.

Other island visits require their own landing or ferry arrangements. Do not assume a regional Orkney itinerary means your ship will use both of these ports, or that an independent island ferry will connect with the ship's departure.