Port information & tips for Stromness (Orkney Islands)
Stromness is the picturesque gateway to the historic Orkney Islands and captivates with its authentic Scottish charm. The harbor is sheltered in a deep bay and offers a fascinating insight into the Nordic soul of Scotland thanks to its narrow, winding streets, traditional stone houses, and lively maritime atmosphere. Cultural highlights in the immediate vicinity include the renowned Pier Arts Centre and the detailed Stromness Museum, while the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Skara Brae remains easily accessible. Cruise ships dock at the North Pier or anchor at the Pier Head via tender boats, allowing travelers to arrive directly in the heart of the old town and explore the charming shops and cafes in just a few steps on foot.
Stromness on the Orkney Islands is a picturesque cruise port characterized by its direct connection to the charming town. Cruise ships either dock directly at Stromness Pier or tender into the harbor area, which is only a short walk from the town center.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is ideally via Kirkwall Airport (KOI), the nearest airport on the Orkney Islands. This is served by connecting flights from major Scottish airports such as Edinburgh (EDI) and Glasgow (GLA). From Kirkwall Airport to Stromness, it is approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles). For a direct transfer, a taxi is recommended, covering the distance in around 29 minutes and costing between 40 and 50 GBP. Local taxi companies like Ewan's Cab offer convenient transfers for this. Alternatively, you can take the bus, which requires a connection via the Kirkwall Travel Centre; the travel time is then approximately 1 hour and 3 to 19 minutes at a cost of 7 to 10 GBP.
Ferry & Car
For travelers who appreciate the flexibility of their own car, the ferry is the best option to reach Stromness. NorthLink Ferries operates the Pentland Firth connection from Scrabster on the Scottish coast directly to Stromness, with a pleasant crossing of about 90 minutes. Scrabster is well connected to the Scottish mainland via the A9 trunk road. Various parking options are available in Stromness: short-term parking (subject to fees) can be found directly opposite the ferry terminal and at the Ferry Inn, while free long-term parking is offered at the Ferry Road Car Park (north of the terminal) and at the Old Academy Car Park. Early booking of ferry tickets with a vehicle is recommended, especially during peak travel times.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the island location and the necessary journey by plane and/or ferry, booking a pre-cruise hotel is an excellent way to start your cruise in a relaxed manner. An overnight stay before embarkation day on the Orkney Islands, for example in Stromness or nearby Kirkwall, offers you a sufficient buffer for any travel delays. This way, you enjoy a stress-free arrival and can gather your first impressions of the enchanting Orkney Islands even before your cruise begins.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
Stromness on the Orkney Islands is a picturesque cruise port characterized by its direct connection to the charming town. Cruise ships either dock directly at Stromness Pier or tender into the harbor area, which is only a short walk from the town center.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is ideally via Kirkwall Airport (KOI), the nearest airport on the Orkney Islands. This is served by connecting flights from major Scottish airports such as Edinburgh (EDI) and Glasgow (GLA). From Kirkwall Airport to Stromness, it is approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles). For a direct transfer, a taxi is recommended, covering the distance in around 29 minutes and costing between 40 and 50 GBP. Local taxi companies like Ewan's Cab offer convenient transfers for this. Alternatively, you can take the bus, which requires a connection via the Kirkwall Travel Centre; the travel time is then approximately 1 hour and 3 to 19 minutes at a cost of 7 to 10 GBP.
Ferry & Car
For travelers who appreciate the flexibility of their own car, the ferry is the best option to reach Stromness. NorthLink Ferries operates the Pentland Firth connection from Scrabster on the Scottish coast directly to Stromness, with a pleasant crossing of about 90 minutes. Scrabster is well connected to the Scottish mainland via the A9 trunk road. Various parking options are available in Stromness: short-term parking (subject to fees) can be found directly opposite the ferry terminal and at the Ferry Inn, while free long-term parking is offered at the Ferry Road Car Park (north of the terminal) and at the Old Academy Car Park. Early booking of ferry tickets with a vehicle is recommended, especially during peak travel times.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the island location and the necessary journey by plane and/or ferry, booking a pre-cruise hotel is an excellent way to start your cruise in a relaxed manner. An overnight stay before embarkation day on the Orkney Islands, for example in Stromness or nearby Kirkwall, offers you a sufficient buffer for any travel delays. This way, you enjoy a stress-free arrival and can gather your first impressions of the enchanting Orkney Islands even before your cruise begins.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Stromness is ideally located in the heart of the town and, thanks to its central location, offers travelers a perfect starting point for exploring the Orkney Islands.
On Foot
The historic town center with its characteristic stone streets can be easily reached from the pier in two to five minutes. A stroll along the picturesque waterfront road leads you directly to cozy cafes and local art galleries.
Public Buses (Stagecoach)
The bus stops are located directly at the Pierhead and offer a direct connection to the island's capital, Kirkwall, via route X1. These buses run regularly and also provide an easy way to reach famous prehistoric sites such as the Ring of Brodgar.
Taxi
Local taxis are available immediately at the port area and allow for comfortable trips to individual destinations on the island. Drivers often offer private tours and can take you directly to the more remote sights of the Mainland island.
To make the most of your stay in Stromness, we recommend a relaxed stroll through the historic town center combined with an excursion to the world-famous prehistoric sites in the immediate vicinity.
Stromness Old Town & Pier Arts Centre
The winding alleys with their characteristic stone houses and cozy shops right by the harbor invite you on a tour of discovery. In addition, the Pier Arts Centre offers an inspiring insight into modern art amidst the maritime setting.
Skara Brae & Skaill Bay
This exceptionally well-preserved Stone Age settlement is located directly on a picturesque sandy beach and, thanks to the short travel time, is the ideal destination for a fascinating journey back into the history of the Orkney Islands.
Ring of Brodgar
The monumental stone circle sits majestically on an isthmus between two lakes and offers an unforgettable panorama, perfect for atmospheric photography and a deep insight into the Neolithic heritage of the region.
The Historic Main Street and the Pier Arts Centre
The picturesque main street of Stromness begins directly at the harbour and, with its winding alleys and traditional stone houses, offers an ideal backdrop for a day of cultural discovery. A visit to the Pier Arts Centre is particularly worthwhile; it houses a first-class collection of modern art and also impresses with its architecture, which blends harmoniously with the coastline. The cozy cafés along the promenade also invite you to linger and offer perfect opportunities to enjoy the maritime flair of the Orkney Islands in a relaxed way. Use the early morning hours for your tour to savour the peaceful atmosphere of the town and return to the ship on time and relaxed.
The journey back to the port of Stromness is extremely straightforward and relaxed thanks to the compact size of the town. Since the docking berths are located directly at the historic town center, you will always reach your ship safely and on time.
On Foot
Stromness is a picturesque town with narrow, cobbled streets that all lead directly to the central Pierhead. From the main shopping street, Victoria Street, you can walk back to the harbor basin in just a few minutes while enjoying the maritime atmosphere. Thanks to the town's clear layout, the way is easy to find and leads directly to the terminal building or the tender station at the harbor.
Taxi
Should you be returning from excursions to more distant sights such as Skara Brae, you will find taxis at the central taxi rank near the Stromness Hotel or directly at the Pierhead. Local drivers are very reliable and will take you directly to the port entrance. For the return journey from rural areas or beaches, it is recommended to reserve a vehicle in advance by telephone to ensure a relaxed arrival at the ship.
Public Bus
If you have spent the day in the island's capital, Kirkwall, the X1 bus service is a great option, as it ends at the Stromness Travel Centre right at the harbor. The stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the docking berths, making the transition back to the ship particularly convenient and easy. The frequency of the buses is reliable and allows for punctual planning of your return journey to the pier.
