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.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
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.
