Aberdeen - Kirkwall

Ferry to Orkney Islands

Aberdeen - Kirkwall
 

There are currently ferries sailing between Aberdeen and Kirkwall. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Kirkwall today.

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Ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall


Aberdeen to Kirkwall Ferry Prices, Offers & Availability

Cheap ferry tickets for the ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall

We offer a quick and easy way to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide to help you find the best option. Check out our Special Offers page for discounts on selected routes and operators. Remember to book early for the best prices and availability!

Are there any discounts available for senior citizens, students or residents?

Yes, Direct Ferries offers a wide range of discounts all year around. When searching for ferries, senior discounts will be applied automatically if they are available. Just select your age range from the passenger options.

Students and graduates can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To take advantage of the discount, you need to register with our partner Student Beans and confirm your student or graduate status. You will then receive a discount code which can be entered during the payment process.

Resident discounts are available on a variety of Spanish and Italian ferry routes. Just click on the "Residents" option when this is displayed. The discount is automatically applied to the price. Bear in mind that proof of registration or an identity card with the correct address must be shown at check-in.


Aberdeen to Kirkwall Travel with Vehicles & Pets

Can I bring my car or caravan on the ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall?

Whether you can bring your vehicle on the ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall depends on factors such as the ship and operator of your chosen crossing. To find out, simply enter your details and we’ll show you which operators on that route allow vehicles.

For practical tips and for inspiration when travelling with a car, campervan or caravan, visit our blog.

Can I travel as a foot passenger from Aberdeen to Kirkwall?

The regulations for foot passengers can vary between ferry operators and ships. For more information, just enter your details and preferred route to find out if you can travel on the ferry by foot.

Travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs

There are a few things to keep in mind when travelling with guide and assistance dogs. We recommend contacting our customer service team or notifying the ferry company at the time of booking that you’ll be travelling with a guide dog or assistance dog.

You should also ensure that you have any necessary certificates and documentation with you, as you may be asked to present them when boarding or whilst you’re on board.

Please note that even if pets aren’t allowed on board, different regulations may apply to passengers travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs. You can check the specific rules on your preferred sailing with our customer service. For general information on travelling with assistance dogs and guide dogs, visit our Special Assistance Help page.


Aberdeen to Kirkwall Journey Information

International Travel Rules

It's important to check what documents you'll need before sailing, as travel requirements can vary depending on the route. In most cases, a valid passport is required when travelling from Aberdeen to Kirkwall, along with any necessary visas or national ID cards. Requirements may differ based on your nationality and the destination country’s regulations. To avoid delays at check-in, you can find helpful information for your journey in our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and in our blog post on tips and tricks for international travel.


Travel Smart: How to book a ferry

Booking your Aberdeen to Kirkwall ferry tickets

To book your ferry tickets and to see all available options and prices, simply enter your departure and arrival ports and the date you’d like to travel. You’ll also be able to view alternative routes and times, so you can find the best deal to suit you.

Look out for early booking discounts or special ticket options such as upgrades or flexi-tickets that allow you to change or cancel your booking. To make your sailing as smooth as possible, make sure you enter all the required information correctly, such as number of passengers and vehicle specifications.

Collecting your ferry tickets from Aberdeen port

Once you’ve finalised your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It depends on the ferry operator you book with as to how your boarding pass is issued and collected.

Whilst some ferry operators issue the boarding pass as soon as your booking is confirmed, others may ask you to check in at the port. There’s also the option for online check-in, which can be done easily via the Direct Ferries app, if available.

The ticket desks are usually located near the ferry terminals. To avoid any delays at the port, we’d recommend allowing some extra time to collect your tickets and to check-in.

During check-in, you must show your email confirmation, as well as an official photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. You might also be asked to provide documentation for your pet (vaccines, pet insurance etc.) or proof of residence if you have booked your ticket with a resident discount.

Why are there no ferries available on the date I want to travel?

There could be various reasons why there are no departures from Aberdeen to Kirkwall for the date you’ve requested. For example, a temporary timetable change, limited availability or seasonal changes in the timetable. We recommend checking for alternative dates and routes.

When is the best time to book a ferry to Kirkwall?

The best time to book ferries from Aberdeen to Kirkwall is usually as early as possible. By booking in advance, you’ll not only get your tickets at the best available prices, but you’ll also get a better choice of departure times and cabin/seating options.

We’d recommend making your booking at least a few weeks in advance to benefit from the best offers. Bear in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and availability.

Why use Direct Ferries?

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Aberdeen - Kirkwall Ferry Route Prices 
Foot Passenger£89
Average Price with Car£467
Average Price with Motorbike£96
Average Campervan Price£265
Average Cabin Price£193
Aberdeen - Kirkwall Ferry Route Summary 
OriginScotland
DestinationOrkney Islands
No. of Operators1
OperatorsNorthlink Ferries
Average Price£423
Average Pet Price£280
Average Daily Sailings1
Average Weekly Sailings4
Average Sailing Duration6 h
Fastest Sailing Duration6 h
First Ferry17:00
Last Ferry17:00
Distance122 Nautical Miles

* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 July 2026. 

Aberdeen to Kirkwall Ferry Most Popular Questions

Aberdeen Guide

Aberdeen Ferry Port serves as a vibrant hub that seamlessly connects the granite city to the Northern Isles, making it an interesting departure point for maritime adventures. Aberdeen itself is rich in cultural heritage and modern attractions, including the historic Aberdeen Maritime Museum and the enchanting Duthie Park Winter Gardens. Visitors can also enjoy the internationally acclaimed Aberdeen Jazz Festival, which takes place every March. From the port, travellers can easily venture to nearby cities such as Dundee and Inverness, using convenient train and bus services. The transition from the ferry port to Aberdeen city centre is straightforward, with frequent bus services linking directly to the heart of the city. Aberdeen Ferry Port not only offers access to stunning natural landscapes but also serves as a threshold to Scotland's enchanting northeastern coastline.

Kirkwall Guide

Kirkwall Ferry Port serves as a captivating entry point to the rich history and vibrant culture of Orkney, Scotland. Known for its stunning landscapes and ancient heritage, Kirkwall itself boasts the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral, which dates back to 1137, and the nearby Orkney Museum, which delves into the islands' intriguing past. Visitors can also explore the Neolithic village of Skara Brae and the mystical Ring of Brodgar. From the port, travellers can easily access other islands via local ferries or explore the mainland with available bus services. The town centre is a short walk from the port, offering convenient access to local amenities and transportation. Kirkwall's annual Orkney Folk Festival, held in May, brings a surge of music and dance, celebrating Orkney's unique cultural tapestry. Whether you're drawn by its historical allure or the serene natural environment, Kirkwall Ferry Port presents a gateway to an unforgettable Orkney adventure.

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Aberdeen to Kirkwall
Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 29/06/2026 and 05/07/2026

Operator Departure Time Arrival Time Duration Sailing Days
Northlink Ferries 17:00 23:00 6 hours Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

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