How to Get from Kirkwall Airport to Kirkwall Ferry Port

For convenience and speed, a taxi is the superior choice. The journey is remarkably short, covering just 1.5 miles (2.4 km). This is the only method that drops you directly at the ferry terminal entrance.

Key Details & Costs

Aspect	Details
Journey Time	5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic in Kirkwall.
Average Fare	£8 - £12 for the standard car. A fixed fare for this route is common.
Taxi Availability	Taxis usually wait outside the terminal. During peak ferry times or bad weather, a short queue may form.
Booking Advice	Pre-booking is recommended for early morning, late night, or group travel. Use reputable local companies.

When a Taxi is Essential (Not Just Convenient)

• Late-Night/Early-Morning Flights: Bus services are limited or non-existent.
• Tight Ferry Connections: If you have less than 90 minutes between landing and ferry check-in closure.
• Traveling with Mobility Issues or Heavy Luggage: Direct drop-off eliminates difficult walks.
• Group Travel (3+ people): Splitting the fare can make it cost-competitive with multiple bus tickets.
• Inclement Weather: Orkney is famously windy and rainy; a taxi provides shelter.

Recommended Taxi Firms

It's wise to have a number saved. Reliable local operators include:

• C&J Kirkwall Taxis: +44 (0)1856 875777
• Orkney Taxis: +44 (0)1856 875555

Tip: Confirm the estimated fare when booking, especially for larger vehicles or unusual luggage.

Operated by Stagecoach, the bus is a reliable and affordable link to Kirkwall town. Crucially, it does not stop at the ferry terminal itself. You will need to alight in the town centre and walk for 5-10 minutes.

Step-by-Step Bus Guide

1. Catch the Bus at the Airport: The bus stop is directly outside the terminal. Look for buses Number 2 or 2A heading to "Kirkwall (Travel Centre)".
2. Purchase Your Ticket: Pay the driver in cash or contactless. A single adult fare to Kirkwall is approximately £2 - £3.
3. The Journey (10-15 mins): The bus travels via Grimsetter and into Kirkwall, with several stops in town.
4. Alight at Kirkwall Travel Centre: This is the final stop, the main bus station on Junction Road. Tell the driver you're going to the ferry port for guidance.
5. The Walk to the Ferry Port (5-10 mins): From the Travel Centre, head south down Junction Road, which becomes Shore Street. The ferry terminal will be on your left. Use Google Maps for precise walking directions.

Bus Schedule & Critical Warnings

Schedule Factor	Details & Impact
Frequency (Mon-Sat)	Generally every 30 to 60 minutes during daytime. Buses are often timed to meet flights.
Sunday & Evening Service	Severely reduced or non-existent. Always check the current timetable on the Stagecoach website.
Total Door-to-Door Time	Allow 25-40 minutes total (waiting + bus ride + walk). This can be longer if you just miss a bus.
Luggage	Standard luggage is fine. Space is limited on busy services. Avoid this option with oversized bags or multiple large suitcases.

Key Takeaway: The bus is excellent for budget travelers and those with time to spare, but always verify the return schedule if you're coming back to the airport later.

While geographically close, the walk is not a simple stroll. It's a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) journey that takes about 25 to 35 minutes for a fit person without luggage. The route involves walking along main roads with variable footpath provision.

Detailed Route Analysis & Safety Considerations

• The Route: Exit the airport, turn left onto the A960. Follow this road (Shore Street) all the way into Kirkwall. The ferry terminal is on the left before entering the main town centre.
• Footpaths: A proper footpath exists for parts, but there are sections, especially nearer the airport, where you will be walking on a narrow road verge. Visibility can be poor in bad weather.
• Weather Exposure: Orkney weather is unpredictable and often harsh. This walk can be extremely unpleasant or unsafe in strong winds, heavy rain, or during the dark winter months.
• Luggage Impracticality: This option is only feasible if you have a single, small, wheeled carry-on bag. Dragging large suitcases along this route is not recommended.

Who Should Consider Walking?

Only a very specific type of traveler:

• Backpackers with a single, lightweight backpack.
• Those arriving in calm, dry summer weather.
• Travelers with a significant amount of time before their ferry and a desire for some exercise.

For over 95% of visitors, taking the bus or a taxi is a wiser, safer, and more comfortable choice. View the walking route on Google Maps to assess it for yourself.

Beyond the schedules and fares, here is practical wisdom from frequent travelers and locals to ensure a smooth transfer.

1. Ferry Check-In is Non-Negotiable

Ferries to mainland Scotland (Scrabster, Aberdeen) or the Northern Isles require you to check in at the terminal at least 30-45 minutes before departure. This is a firm deadline, not a suggestion. Always factor this into your planning from the airport.

2. The Orkney Weather Wild Card

Weather is your primary planning variable. Flights can be delayed, and walking/bus waiting becomes miserable in wind and rain. Always have a backup plan (i.e., a taxi firm's number saved). Check forecasts on the Met Office website.

3. Money & Connectivity at the Airport

While card payments are widely accepted, carry some cash (£20 should suffice) for the bus or as a taxi backup if card machines fail. The airport has limited services, but free WiFi is available to check timetables or call a taxi.

4. If You Have Time in Kirkwall

If your bus drops you off with hours to spare, don't haul your bags around. The Kirkwall Travel Centre (bus station) has left luggage facilities. Store your bags and explore St Magnus Cathedral, Earl's Palace, or local shops on Broad Street, all within a 5-minute walk.

5. The "Hidden" Cost of Walking

Remember that the "free" walk may cost you in other ways: discomfort, arriving sweaty/wet for your ferry journey, or risking a slip/fall with luggage. The small cost of the bus is often an excellent investment in comfort.