How to get around Orkney: Your complete guide

The Orkney Islands, an archipelago rich in history and natural beauty, offer a variety of experiences across their many islands that are easy to get around. Once you’ve arrived, whether by air or sea, the adventure continues as you explore the unique landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant communities spread across the islands.

Efficient and varied transport links make it easy to hop from one island to another, ensuring you can make the most of your visit. This guide will help you navigate the options available to get around Orkney Islands, providing essential information for a smooth and enjoyable journey. I have tested all the ferry routes, some multiple times and had a few flights and it has all been very easy and efficient.

By Ferry

Ferries are a primary mode of transportation between the Orkney Islands, providing regular and reliable services to most of the inhabited islands. Orkney Ferries operates the inter-island ferry network, making it easy to explore multiple islands during your stay.

CHECK THE CURRENT ORKNEY FERRY TIMETABLES

Routes and Key Connections

Route	Duration	Frequency	Highlights
Kirkwall to Shapinsay	Approximately 30 minutes	Several sailings daily	Perfect for day trips, offering sights such as Balfour Castle and beautiful coastal views.
Stromness to Hoy and Graemsay	Stromness to Hoy (1 hour); Stromness to Graemsay (30 minutes)	Multiple sailings daily	Ideal for visiting the Old Man of Hoy sea stack and the scenic landscapes of Hoy. Graemsay offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views.
Kirkwall to Westray and Papa Westray	Kirkwall to Westray (1 hour 30 minutes); Westray to Papa Westray (20 minutes)	Several sailings weekly	The northern isles are known for their wildlife, including seabird colonies and seal sightings, and the historic Noltland Castle.
Houton to Lyness and Flotta	Houton to Lyness (45 minutes); Houton to Flotta (30 minutes)	Multiple sailings daily	Lyness is home to the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum, while Flotta offers tranquil landscapes and WWII relics.
Kirkwall to North Ronaldsay	Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes	Several sailings weekly	Famous for its unique breed of seaweed-eating sheep and the North Ronaldsay Lighthouse.
Kirkwall to Sanday	Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes	Several sailings weekly	Sanday boasts sandy beaches, rich wildlife, and archaeological sites like the Quoyness Chambered Cairn.
Kirkwall to Stronsay	Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes	Several sailings weekly	Stronsay is known for its picturesque landscapes, bird watching opportunities, and the Vat of Kirbister sea cave.
Kirkwall to Eday	Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes	Several sailings weekly	Eday offers a peaceful retreat with archaeological sites such as the Vinquoy Chambered Cairn and diverse wildlife.
Kirkwall to Rousay, Egilsay, and Wyre	Kirkwall to Rousay (1 hour); Rousay to Egilsay (15 minutes); Rousay to Wyre (10 minutes)	Multiple sailings daily	Rousay is known as the “Egypt of the North” for its archaeological sites, including Midhowe Broch. Egilsay and Wyre offer serene landscapes and historical sites.
Kirkwall to Graemsay and North Hoy	Kirkwall to Graemsay (1 hour); Graemsay to North Hoy (30 minutes)	Multiple sailings weekly	Graemsay is a tranquil island with beautiful views, while North Hoy features dramatic cliffs and wartime history.

Ferry Schedules and Frequency: Ferry schedules vary depending on the season, with more frequent services during the summer months when tourist demand is higher.

Sometimes the weather will prevent services from running or they may be moved earlier or later to avoid the weather or work with the tides.

It’s important to check the latest schedules on the Orkney Ferries website or at local information points. If you have a booking then they will usually contact you directly if there is a schedule change,

Booking Tips and Fare Information:

• Booking Tips: Booking is recommended, especially if you are travelling with a vehicle or during peak tourist season. Tickets can be booked online, by phone, or at ferry terminals.
• Fares: Prices vary based on the route and whether you are travelling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle. Discounts are often available for return journeys and for seniors, students, and families.
• Kirkwall Ferries: the ferries from Kirkwall depart from the harbour. The queues for each ferry will be identified by signs that are placed on the quayside when the ferry is due to start boarding. Line up behind the island sign you are travelling to. Do not worry if they do not load in the order of arrival, everyone will be fitted on, it’s just a large-scale game of Tetris.

By Air

If you are looking for a faster travel option then the inter-island flights operated by Loganair provide an alternative to ferry travel. These flights are particularly useful for reaching the more remote northern islands.

Inter-Island Flights: Loganair operates the world’s shortest scheduled flight between Westray and Papa Westray, a journey that takes around two minutes. Beyond this novelty, Loganair offers several other inter-island flights, making it easy to cover larger distances quickly.

CHECK THE CURRENT FLIGHT SCHEDULES

Flight Schedules and Frequency: Flights are generally scheduled to allow for day trips, with morning departures and late afternoon returns. Frequency varies, so it’s best to check the Loganair website or local travel information for the most up-to-date schedules.

Booking Tips and Fare Information:

• Booking Tips: Flights can be booked online via the Loganair website, through travel agents, or at the airport. Booking is recommended due to limited seating. The planes are small so be mindful of your hand luggage.
• Fares: Prices are reasonable, often comparable to ferry fares, and can be lower for residents. Loganair also offers flexible fare options and special deals.

Driving in Orkney

While ferries and flights connect the islands, getting around once you’re on land is typically done by car or bus. Mainland Orkney, the largest island, has an extensive road network making it easy to explore.

You can bring your car over on the ferry or pick up a rental in Kirkwall or at the airport. I have used rental cars on Orkney several times and have never had a problem.

• Road Conditions and Driving Tips:
  • The roads are generally well-maintained and signposted.
  • Traffic is light compared to mainland UK, but watch out for sheep and other wildlife.
  • Drive on the left and be mindful of single-track roads, which have passing places.
  • If someone is behind you for an extended period pull over and let them pass when you have a chance.
  • Do not use passing places for photo stops or lunch breaks.

Buses on Orkney

If you prefer not to drive, Orkney offers a reliable and efficient bus service covering most of the main points of interest on Mainland Orkney and linking to the ferry terminals for onward travel to the outer islands.

• Overview of Bus Services:
  • Operated by Stagecoach, the buses are comfortable and well-maintained.
  • Major routes include Kirkwall to Stromness, Kirkwall to the airport, and Kirkwall to other major attractions.
• Key Routes and Schedules:
  • The X1 bus is probably the most useful bus for visiting places. It runs from the ferry at St Margaret’s Hope to Skara Brae via Kirkwall and Stromness.
  • The number 4 bus connects Kirkwall with the airport.
• Connection to Ferry Terminals:
  • Buses are scheduled to align with ferry departure and arrival times, making it convenient to switch between modes of transport.

DOWNLOAD THE ORKNEY PUBLIC BUS GUIDE HERE

Cycle and Walk

if you enjoy a more active approach to travel, Orkney offers excellent opportunities for cycling and walking. The relatively flat terrain and scenic routes make it ideal for exploring at a slower pace.

Cycling

Cycling is a fantastic way to see the islands. A Sustrans route runs from Kirkwall to Stromness along the north of the Mainland.

• Overview of Cycling Routes and Trails:
  • Popular routes include Kirkwall to Scapa Beach and the coastal route from Stromness to Yesnaby.
  • More challenging routes are available for experienced cyclists, including those leading to the hilly terrain of Hoy.
• Bike Rental Options and Tips:
  • Bikes can be rented in Kirkwall and they will deliver to where you are staying
  • Child seats and helmets are provided
  • Always carry a map, water, and appropriate clothing for the changing weather.

Walking

Walking is perhaps the best way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Orkney. From coastal paths to inland trails, there’s a walk to suit every level of fitness and interest.

• Overview of Walking Paths and Trails:
  • The St. Magnus Way: A long-distance pilgrimage route that takes in some of the best scenery and historical sites on Mainland Orkney.
  • Coastal paths: Numerous coastal trails offer stunning views and opportunities to see wildlife, such as seals and seabirds.
• Popular Walks:
  • Yesnaby Coastal Walk: Known for its dramatic cliffs and the Yesnaby Castle sea stack.
  • Brough of Birsay: A tidal island accessible on foot at low tide, featuring a lighthouse and Viking ruins.
• Tips for Walkers:
  • Wear sturdy walking boots and dress in layers to adjust to the weather.
  • Always check the tide times when planning coastal walks.
  • Carry a map, compass, and sufficient supplies, especially on longer hikes.

Travel around Orkney

Getting around the Orkney Islands is part of the adventure, offering multiple ways to experience the rich diversity and stunning beauty of this unique archipelago. Whether you choose to travel by ferry, take a quick flight, drive through scenic roads, cycle along quiet paths, or walk through history-laden landscapes, each mode of transport provides its own unique perspective on the islands.

Planning your transport in advance and understanding your options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Once you’ve navigated your way through the islands, you’ll be free to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and natural wonders that make Orkney such a special destination.