Orkney Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do, Walkability & Local Tips

Quick Take

Port Type

Historic Small Port

Best For

History lovers, prehistoric sites, Scottish atmosphere, independent explorers

Avoid If

You need a beach day, dislike unpredictable weather, or find archaeology underwhelming

Walkability

Kirkwall town centre is very walkable; major prehistoric sites require transport

Budget Fit

Moderate — Kirkwall itself is low-cost, but taxis or tours to Skara Brae add up quickly

Good For Short Calls?

Yes, Kirkwall old town and the cathedral is easily done in 3–4 hours on foot

Port Overview

Orkney sits off the northern tip of Scotland, and ships dock or tender at one of two locations depending on the vessel and itinerary: Kirkwall's Hatston Pier, which handles larger ships and sits about 1.5 km from town, or Stromness Pier on the west side of the Mainland island, a smaller but prettier option right in the town centre. Knowing which pier you are using matters — Hatston requires a short taxi or shuttle to reach Kirkwall, while Stromness drops you directly onto a charming harbour street.

Orkney punches well above its size historically. This is where you find Skara Brae, a Neolithic village older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, the Ring of Brodgar standing stones, and the Maeshowe chambered cairn — all UNESCO World Heritage listed. St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, built in 1137, is one of the finest medieval buildings in Scotland and is completely free to enter.

The town of Kirkwall is compact, genuinely local, and not overtly tourist-trap. Expect independent shops, good bakeries, whisky distilleries nearby, and a very real sense that people actually live and work here. The atmosphere is more honest small-town Scotland than gift-shop village.

Weather is the wildcard. Orkney is exposed and the wind can be fierce even in summer. Layers and waterproofs are not optional. That said, a blustery day over the standing stones at Brodgar is an experience in itself — if you are dressed for it.

Is It Safe?

Orkney is extremely safe. Petty crime is rare and the local population is welcoming. The main hazards are environmental: coastal cliffs have no barriers at many sites, winds can be strong enough to unbalance people near exposed edges, and weather can change quickly. Wear sturdy footwear at any site outside of town — grass paths get slippery. Keep an eye on return times carefully; ships will not wait.

Accessibility & Walkability

Kirkwall town centre is largely flat and accessible, though some older cobbled sections of the lanes can be uneven. St Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum have reasonable access. Hatston Pier to town involves a flat but exposed road stretch that is manageable for most mobility aids.

Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar involve uneven ground, gravel paths, and exposed hillside terrain — not suitable for wheelchairs without significant assistance. If accessibility is a concern, focusing the day on Kirkwall itself is the realistic and rewarding alternative.

Outside the Terminal

At Hatston Pier, the immediate surroundings are industrial and sparse — you are in a working port facility with little to see. The town shuttle or a 20-minute walk brings you to the real Orkney. At Stromness, the opposite is true: you step off directly onto a picturesque harbour street lined with stone buildings, craft shops, and a cafe or two. Stromness is the more atmospheric arrival by far, though larger ships cannot use it.

Local Food & Drink

Kirkwall has a small but solid food scene built on local produce. Orkney beef is genuinely excellent and you will find it on most pub menus. Seafood — crab, lobster, and scallops — is worth seeking out when available. Orkney cheese and oatcakes appear in most cafes and delis. The Judith Glue Real Food Cafe on Broad Street near the cathedral is a reliable, popular choice for lunch. The Bothy Bar is good for a pub lunch with local ales. Do not expect extensive dinner options — the port day is a lunch affair for cruisers.

Shopping

Kirkwall's main shopping street (Broad Street and Albert Street) has a good mix of independent local shops: Orcadian jewellery featuring Celtic and Norse designs is the standout buy, and several goldsmiths work with local themes. Orkney fudge, shortbread, and smoked salmon make practical gifts. Highland Park whisky from the distillery itself is a solid souvenir. Avoid generic tartan shops — they exist but are the least interesting option here.

Money & Currency

Currency

British Pound Sterling (GBP)

USD Accepted?

No

Card Payments

Card payments widely accepted in Kirkwall shops, cafes, and attractions. Contactless is standard.

ATMs

ATMs available in Kirkwall town centre. Limited options at Stromness.

Tipping

Not expected but appreciated. Round up or leave 10% at sit-down restaurants if service was good.

Notes

Hatston Pier itself has no facilities — bring GBP or a card before stepping ashore, especially if arriving at Stromness.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

June, July, August

Avoid

November through March — dark, very cold, and most attractions have reduced hours

Temperature

10–17°C (50–63°F) in summer; can feel colder with wind chill

Notes

Orkney weather is highly changeable. Wind is constant. Even in July, a waterproof layer and wind-resistant clothing are essential. Pack them regardless of the forecast.

Airport Information

Airport

Kirkwall Airport (KOI)

Distance

4 km from Hatston Pier / Kirkwall town centre

Getting there

Taxi is the most practical option. No direct bus service aligned to arrivals.

Notes

Flights connect to Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Glasgow. Small airport with limited facilities. Orkney is rarely used as a cruise embarkation point — most cruisers visit as a port call only.