Lerwick - Aberdeen

Ferry to Scotland

Lerwick - Aberdeen

Ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen are operated by 1 ferry company; Northlink Ferries. The journey usually takes around 12 hours. There are currently 7 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Prices start from as little as £45.00. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Aberdeen today.

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Lerwick to Aberdeen Ferry

How do I get from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

You can get a ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen. Ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen are available all year round. This ferry route is operated by Northlink Ferries. With around 1 daily and 7 weekly sailings, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to Aberdeen today.


Lerwick to Aberdeen timetables and sailing information

Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry timetable

Lerwick to Aberdeen first ferry: departs Lerwick at 16:30.   
Lerwick to Aberdeen last ferry: departs Lerwick at around 19:00.

Bear in mind that Lerwick Aberdeen ferry times can vary by season. We recommend checking the latest Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry timetable before you book.

How long is the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

The duration of the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry depends whether you’re travelling on a Lerwick Aberdeen fast ferry or conventional ferry. The Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry duration is usually around 12 hours on average.   
   
Average Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry time: 12 hours   
Fastest ferry: 12 hours   
Longest ferry: 14 hours 30 minutes

Is there a fast ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

The fastest ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen take 12 hours.

Lerwick to Aberdeen Ferry Schedule

Ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen are provided by 1 ferry company; Northlink Ferries with 1 daily and 7 weekly sailings. Bear in mind, the Lerwick Aberdeen ferry timetable can change throughout the seasons, with more options available in the summer months.

Ferry frequency: the Lerwick ferry to Aberdeen runs all year round   

Northlink Ferries: 1 daily sailing and 7 weekly sailings

Can I do a Lerwick to Aberdeen day trip?

Due to the crossing time, ferries between Lerwick and Aberdeen are currently not suitable for a day trip.

How far is Lerwick from Aberdeen?

Lerwick to Aberdeen distance: approximately 218.2 miles (351.2km) or 190 nautical miles.


Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry prices and offers

How much does a ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen cost?

Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry prices can vary depending on the ferry company you're travelling with and the season you're travelling in. The price of the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen varies between £45.00 to £507.46.

Average Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry cost: £182.57

What is the cheapest Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry?

The cheapest Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry costs £45.00.

Do you offer student discount on Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry tickets?

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Lerwick Aberdeen ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry booking.

When is the best time to book ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

We recommend booking in advance to find the cheapest ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen. Aberdeen to Aberdeen ferry prices vary depending on the season you’re travelling in.

Most Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re travelling from Lerwick to Aberdeen by boat in summer it’s always best to make your Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry booking in advance.

Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the cheapest ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen.


Lerwick to Aberdeen travel with vehicles and pets

Can you take your car on the ferry to Aberdeen from Lerwick?

Yes, you can get the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen with a car.

Car operators:   
Northlink Ferries   
Average car price: £391.84  

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

Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry.

Foot operators:   
Northlink Ferries    
Average foot passenger price: £75.82  

Can I take my camper on the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry?

Yes, you can take your camper on the ferry to Aberdeen from Lerwick.

Average camper price: £372.90

Can I take my pet on the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

Pets are allowed on Lerwick ferries to Aberdeen. However, you must let the ferry company know you are travelling with a pet at the time of your booking.

Pet-friendly operators:   
Northlink Ferries 

What will I need when travelling with my pet?

You will need the following things with you when travelling with your pet on a ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen.

  • Health documents showing your pet’s vaccinations
  • Everything your pet needs for a safe and comfortable journey such as water, food and a lead

Where will my pet stay during the Lerwick Aberdeen ferry crossing?

NorthLink Ferries:

  • Pets can either stay in pet-friendly cabins, kennels or in your vehicle
  • Pets must be kept on a lead and must not be left unattended on the outside deck

Travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs

You can travel with guide dogs and assistance dogs on the boat from Lerwick to Aberdeen. However, you must let the ferry company know at the time of booking. You may also have to present any necessary certificates if asked to do so on board.


Onboard the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry

Are cabins available on the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry?

Yes, cabins are available on the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen.

Cabin operators: Northlink Ferries

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry with luggage

If you're taking luggage on board the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

  • NorthLink Ferries: maximum baggage weight of 30kg

What facilities are available on board ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the ferry between Lerwick and Aberdeen. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?

The accommodation and seating on the Lerwick to Aberdeen boat differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin.

  • NorthLink Ferries: cabins, pods and seats are available to book

Is there reduced mobility access on the Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Lerwick to Aberdeen are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

  • NorthLink Ferries: accessible features on board include wheelchair access, special cabins and accessible toilets.

Taking the ferry from Lerwick to Aberdeen

How early do I need to arrive at Lerwick port?

It all depends on the ferry company you are travelling with. In general, we recommend arriving at Lerwick port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry tickets?

Your Lerwick to Aberdeen tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?

The latest check-in time for your Lerwick to Aberdeen ferry booking should be in your confirmation email.

  • NorthLink Ferries: check-in opens 120 minutes before departure and closes 30 minutes before departure.

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Lerwick - Aberdeen Ferry Route summary
OriginShetland Islands
DestinationScotland
No. of Operators1
OperatorsNorthlink Ferries
Average Price£183
Average Daily Sailings1
Average Weekly Sailings7
Average Sailing Duration12 h
Fastest Sailing Duration12 h
First Ferry16:30
Last Ferry19:00
Distance190 Nautical Miles

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

Lerwick to Aberdeen Ferry Most Popular Questions

Aberdeen Travel Guide

Nestled on the north-east coast of Scotland, Aberdeen is the country's third-largest city. Often referred to as the 'Granite City' due to its architecture, Aberdeen offers heaps of attractions. From beaches to parks, art galleries, museums and plenty of restaurants, pubs and bars, there's more than enough to keep you busy.

Top things to do in Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen Art Gallery: browse the works of art at this amazing gallery
  • Aberdeen Maritime Museum: learn all about the city's rich history
  • St Machar's Cathedral: admire the cathedral and explore Old Aberdeen
  • Duthie Park: explore this beautiful 44-acre park
  • Aberdeen Beach: take a scenic stroll or relax on the sands of the city's beach

About Aberdeen port

Aberdeen ferry port connects mainland Scotland with the Shetland Islands and the Orkney Islands. The port is used for both passenger and freight services. NorthLink Ferries are the main ferry operator serving the port.

How to get to Aberdeen port

Is there parking at Aberdeen port?

Parking options are available near to the ferry port at locations including Commercial Quay parking and Union Square.

Aberdeen port amenities

Amenities at the ferry port including tourist information, vending machines, left luggage and toilets.

Aberdeen port address

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal, Jamieson’s Quay, Aberdeen, AB11 5NP, United Kingdom


Lerwick Travel Guide

Fancy exploring Scotland's beautiful Shetland Islands? With great ferry connections to the mainland, Lerwick is the perfect place to start. The Shetland's only town may be small but its got plenty to offer, from its rich Viking heritage to its charming streets, historical attractions and beautiful scenery.

Top things to do in Lerwick

  • Fort Charlotte: step back in time at this historical landmark
  • Commercial Street: explore the town's main street with its shops and cafes
  • Shetland Museum and Archives: learn all about the Shetlands at this fascinating museum
  • Lerwick Brewery: taste the local tipple at the UK's most northerly craft brewery

About Lerwick port

Lerwick port connects the Shetland Islands with Aberdeen in mainland Scotland and Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands, with regular services by operators including NorthLink Ferries.

How to get to Lerwick port

Lerwick port is located around 1 mile from the town centre. You can either walk to the port in around 20 minutes or get a local bus or taxi.

Is there parking at Lerwick port?

Limited parking is available at the terminal.

Lerwick port amenities

Amenities include toilets and tourist information. There are many more amenities within walking distance of the terminal.

Lerwick port address

Lerwick Ferry Terminal, Holmsgarth Road, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 0PR, United Kingdom

Lerwick to Aberdeen
Ferry Timetables

Ferry Timetables between 09/03/2026 and 15/03/2026

Operator Departure Time Arrival Time Duration Sailing Days
Northlink Ferries 16:30 07:00 14 hours 30 minutes Sat
Northlink Ferries 17:30 07:00 13 hours 30 minutes Thu
Northlink Ferries 19:00 07:00 12 hours Mon, Tue, Sun

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