Ferry to Shetland Islands

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Ferry to Shetland Islands

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Ferry to Shetland Islands

You can get ferries to the Shetland Islands from Aberdeen & Kirkwall. There are up to 9 ferries running per week. Ferries to Shetland Islands are provided by 1 ferry operator; Northlink Ferries. Use our Deal Finder to compare times and prices and book your ferry to Shetland Islands online at Direct Ferries.

Shetland Islands Ferry Timetable

The Shetland Islands ferry timetable varies depending on the ferry route and operator.

The Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry sails approximately 7 times per week, with an average duration of about 12 hours 30 minutes.

Aberdeen to Lerwick first ferry: departs at 17:00 
Aberdeen to Lerwick last ferry: departs at 19:00

The Kirkwall to Lerwick ferry currently sails around 4 times per week. The journey usually takes about 7 hours 45 minutes.

Kirkwall to Lerwick first ferry: departs at 23:45 
Aberdeen to Lerwick last ferry: departs at 23:45

How long is the ferry ride to the Shetland Islands?

The duration of the ferry to Shetland Islands depends on the route. The Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry takes 12 hours 30 minutes on average.

Which is the fastest ferry to Shetland Islands?

The fastest ferry to Shetland Islands is Kirkwall to Lerwick. This journey usually takes 7 hours 45 minutes

Shetland Islands Ferry Operators

Ferries to Shetland Islands are provided by 1 ferry operator; Northlink Ferries. There are currently 2 daily and 9 weekly sailings to Shetland Islands.

Shetland Islands ferry ports

There is just 1 ferry port in Shetland Islands; Lerwick. Lerwick port is located in the island's only town located on the east coast of the island .

Where do you get a ferry to the Shetland Islands from?

You can get a ferry to the Shetland Islands from Aberdeen & Kirkwall.

Popular Shetland Islands ferry routes

The most popular ferry route to Shetland Islands is the Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry with 7 weekly sailings. The second most popular ferry to Shetland Islands is the Kirkwall to Lerwick ferry with 4 weekly sailings.

How much does the ferry to Shetland Islands cost?

Shetland Islands ferry prices vary depending on the route you choose. The Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry costs £389.00 on average whereas the Kirkwall to Lerwick ferry usually costs £266.00.

What is the cheapest way to get to Shetland Islands?

The cheapest ferry to Shetland Islands depends on the route, season, ferry company and whether you are travelling with a vehicle or not. Prices are generally cheaper for foot passengers. We recommend booking your ferry tickets to Shetland Islands in advance to get them at the cheapest price.

Cheapest Shetland Islands ferry cost: £266.00

Cheapest Shetland Islands ferry route: Kirkwall to Lerwick 

Can I take an overnight ferry to Shetland Islands? 

Yes, it is possible to get an overnight ferry to Shetland Islands depending on your route.

Can I take a car on the ferry to Shetland Islands?

Yes, you can take your car on ferries to Shetland Islands. Simply follow the signs at the port and staff will be on hand to guide you into the correct lane.

Shetland Islands car operators:  
Northlink Ferries

Can I take my pet on the ferry to Shetland Islands?

Yes, you can take your pet on ferries to Shetland Islands. We recommend checking the ferry operator's pet policy before you travel.

Shetland Islands pet operators:  
Northlink Ferries

How to book Shetland Islands ferry tickets

It's easy to book ferry tickets to Shetland Islands online at Direct Ferries. Just use our Deal Finder to compare times and prices and find the best Shetland Islands ferry to suit you.

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Shetland Islands Guide

The Shetland Islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, making them an intriguing destination for travellers. Lerwick ferry port is the gateway to this fascinating archipelago. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as the Shetland Museum and Archives, Jarlshof prehistoric and Norse settlement, and the breathtaking landscapes of Sumburgh Head. Every year, the Up Helly Aa fire festival in January is a spectacular event celebrating Viking heritage. From Lerwick ferry port, you can easily travel to the city centre via local buses or taxis. The port also provides a starting point for further exploration of the islands and Northern Scotland.

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