Ferries from
Shetland Islands to Scotland
Ferries from
Shetland Islands to Scotland
Shetland Islands to Scotland ferries are operated by Northlink Ferries. There are currently 1 daily and 6 weekly sailings. The Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry crossing is the most popular route with a scheduled sailing duration of 12 hours.
Yes, you can get a ferry from Shetland Islands to Scotland. Ferries from Shetland Islands to Scotland sail approximately 6 times per week and are provided by Northlink Ferries. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Scotland today.
The duration of the ferry from Shetland Islands to Scotland depends on a number of factors including the ferry company you're travelling with and the weather conditions at the time of sail. The duration of the Shetland Islands Scotland ferry also varies between routes.
Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry times vary between 12 hours and 13 hours 30 minutes.
The fastest ferry from Shetland Islands to Scotland is the Lerwick to Aberdeen route. This ferry is provided by Northlink Ferries and takes around 12 hours with an average price of £182.57. There are currently 1 daily and 7 weekly sailings on this ferry route.
Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry times can differ depending on the route you choose and which ferry company you're travelling with. The season you travel in can also affect the times, with more options usually available in the peak summer months. If you're travelling from Shetland Islands to Scotland by boat, it's best to check the latest Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry timetable before you book.
Lerwick – Aberdeen first ferry: 17:30
Lerwick – Aberdeen last ferry: 19:00
There is 1 ferry company providing this route. Shetland Islands to Scotland ferries are provided by Northlink Ferries.
Shetland Islands to Scotland distance: 218 miles (351km) and 190 nautical miles.
Unfortunately, due to the crossing time, you cannot do a day trip from Shetland Islands to Scotland.
There is currently just 1 ferry route operating from Shetland Islands to Scotland:
There are up to 1 daily and 7 weekly sailings on this ferry route. The journey usually takes about 12 hours.
Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry prices can vary depending on a number of factors including the route, ferry company, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle or not. The route you choose can also affect the ferry price. The Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry costs £182.57 on average.
Prices on the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry start from just £45.00. Bear in mind that prices often vary and are usually higher during the peak summer months.
Yes, you can take your car on the ferry to Scotland from Shetland Islands with Northlink Ferries. Check out our deal finder for more information on routes and to find Shetland Islands to Scotland car ferry prices.
Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the ferry from Shetland Islands to Scotland with Northlink Ferries.
Yes, you can travel with your pet on the Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry with Northlink Ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on ferries to Scotland from Shetland Islands.
It's easy to book ferry tickets to Scotland online at Direct Ferries using our Deal Finder. Enter your departure and arrival ports along the date you'd like to travel to see all available options. You can also compare alternative routes to find the best ferry to suit you.
You're best booking your Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry tickets as soon as you know your travel plans. Ferries can sell out, especially in the summer months so it's best to secure your place on the ferry well in advance. The sooner you book, the cheaper the prices tend to be too.
We recommend booking your Shetland Islands to Scotland ferry tickets in advance to get them at the best price. The cheapest ferries from Shetland Islands to Scotland are usually out of season and at off-peak times.
You can also check out our Special Offers page and sign up to our email for exclusive offers. Discounts for senior citizens and residents are available on some routes. If you're a student, you can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets too.
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The Shetland Islands offer a distinctive blend of Scottish and Norse heritage, creating a cultural experience unlike any other in the UK. These remote islands, located closer to Norway than mainland Scotland, boast dramatic landscapes with rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and rolling moorlands. History enthusiasts will appreciate the prehistoric archaeological sites like Jarlshof and the well-preserved Broch of Mousa. Wildlife spotting is exceptional here, with opportunities to see puffins, otters, and even orcas in their natural habitat. The islands come alive during the annual Up Helly Aa fire festival in January, when locals celebrate their Viking heritage with torch-lit processions and boat burning ceremonies. The Shetland Folk Festival in May showcases traditional music from around the world. Regular ferry services connect the Shetlands to Aberdeen on mainland Scotland, making it an accessible yet off-the-beaten-path destination for travellers seeking authentic experiences and breathtaking natural beauty.
Scotland offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, historic castles and vibrant cities. From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the wild Highlands, this northern part of the UK captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich heritage. History enthusiasts can explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and the haunting battlefield of Culloden. The country's stunning scenery includes Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and the dramatic Glencoe valley. Throughout the year, Scotland hosts traditional events including the Highland Games in summer and the fiery Hogmanay celebrations at New Year. Edinburgh's world-famous Fringe Festival transforms the capital each August with thousands of performances. Travellers can easily connect to Northern Ireland via ferry from Cairnryan, or venture to the Orkney and Shetland Islands from Aberdeen. With excellent road connections to England, Scotland serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the British Isles.