Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best way to get from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick Ferry Port is by pre-booked taxi. It's a direct, door-to-door service taking 35-45 minutes at a cost of £45-£60. The cheapest option is the public bus (Service 6) to Lerwick town centre (£4.20, ~1 hour), followed by an 8-minute walk to the terminal. There is no train service in Shetland. Always align your transport choice with your ferry check-in time, especially for early morning sailings.
Taxi & Private Transfer: The Fastest & Most Convenient Door-to-Door Option
For convenience, speed, and reliability—especially with luggage or tight ferry connections—a pre-booked taxi is the top choice. Sumburgh Airport is remote, and pre-booking guarantees your ride.
Key Details & Booking Process
- Journey Time: 35-45 minutes (approx. 25 miles/40 km).
- Average Cost: £45 - £60 (fixed fare is recommended). Metered fares may apply if not pre-booked.
- Operators: Reliable local firms include Sinclair's Taxis and John Leask & Son.
- Booking: Book online or by phone at least 24 hours in advance. Provide your flight number for tracking if delayed.
- Capacity: Standard cars (4 passengers) to minibuses (8+) available. Ideal for groups.
When is a Taxi Essential?
- Early Morning/Late Night Ferries: Public transport doesn't align with all ferry schedules.
- Poor Weather: Shetland weather can be harsh; a dry, direct transfer is valuable.
- Reduced Mobility or Heavy Luggage: Direct terminal drop-off is crucial.
- Flight Delays: A pre-booked driver will monitor your flight arrival.
Drawback: It is the most expensive single-person option. For solo travelers on a budget, the bus is a viable alternative.
Public Bus (Service 6): The Most Economical Choice
Operated by ZetTrans, Service 6 provides a reliable and scenic low-cost link from the airport to Lerwick. However, it does not stop at the ferry terminal itself.
Step-by-Step Bus Guide
- Find the Bus Stop: Exit the airport terminal; the bus stop is clearly signed directly outside.
- Check the Timetable: Services run regularly but frequency drops in the evening and on Sundays. Always check the latest ZetTrans timetable.
- Payment: Pay the driver exact change. Contactless card payments are usually accepted. Fare is approximately £4.20 (adult single).
- The Journey: A ~1 hour ride terminating at Lerwick's Viking Bus Station.
- The Final Leg: From Viking Bus Station, it's a 700m (8-12 minute) walk to the Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal. Follow signs for "Holmsgarth" or use a map app. With heavy bags, consider the short 2-minute taxi hop from the taxi rank at the bus station (cost ~£5).
Bus Pros & Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Extremely cheap (£4.20 vs. £50+ taxi). | Not door-to-door; requires a walk/taxi at the end. |
| Regular daytime schedule. | No service for very late flights or very early ferries. |
| Scenic coastal views. | Luggage space is limited (especially large suitcases). |
| No booking required. | Journey time can be longer than a taxi. |
Car Hire at Sumburgh Airport: Is It Worth It For the Transfer?
While major rental companies have desks at Sumburgh Airport, hiring a car solely for a one-way transfer to the ferry is generally not advised.
Why Renting a Car is Usually Impractical
- High Cost: Daily rental rate + fuel + mandatory one-way drop-off fee (if you leave it in Lerwick) will likely exceed £80-£100, more than a taxi.
- Parking Hassle: You must find and pay for secure long-stay parking in Lerwick near the ferry terminal, which is limited and adds extra cost and stress.
- No Terminal Drop-off: You still have to walk from the car park to the ferry check-in.
When It *Might* Make Sense
- If you plan a multi-day tour of Shetland (e.g., to see Jarlshof, Sumburgh Head, Eshaness) before catching your ferry.
- For large families or groups where a people-carrier rental cost is comparable to multiple taxis.
- If you require absolute flexibility and are returning the car to the airport later.
Bottom Line: Use a comparison site to price a one-way rental including all fees. For 99% of travelers going straight to the ferry, a taxi or bus is simpler and more cost-effective.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all your transport options from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick Ferry Terminal.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Convenience / Key Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-booked Taxi | 35 - 45 mins | £45 - £60 | Door-to-door. Must book ahead. Most reliable. | Families, groups, tight schedules, lots of luggage, poor weather. |
| Public Bus (Service 6) + Walk | 70 - 80 mins | £4.20 + (walk) | Bus to town centre, then 10-min walk. Check timetable. | Solo travelers, backpackers, budget travelers on daytime flights. |
| Public Bus + Short Taxi Hop | 65 - 75 mins | £4.20 + ~£5 | Bus to Viking Station, then 2-min taxi to terminal. Good balance. | Those with manageable luggage wanting to save vs. full taxi. |
| Rental Car (One-Way) | 35 - 45 mins | £80 - £120+ | Includes rental, fuel, drop-off fee, and parking. High hassle factor. | Only for those touring Shetland extensively before the ferry. |
Key Takeaway: The taxi/bus decision primarily hinges on your budget and luggage. Always factor in ferry check-in deadlines when planning your journey.
Traveler Tips & Local Advice for a Smooth Transfer
Essential Pre-Travel Checks
- Ferry Check-in Times: NorthLink Ferries require foot passengers to check in at least 45 minutes before departure. Build this into your travel time from the airport.
- Flight vs. Ferry Buffer: Allow a minimum of 3 hours between your scheduled flight arrival and ferry departure. This accounts for potential flight delays, baggage collection, and the 45-minute transfer.
- Weather Contingency: Shetland weather can cause flight and ferry delays. Consider travel insurance and avoid booking the last possible connection of the day.
Luggage & Navigation Tips
- The Walk in Lerwick: The path from the town centre to Holmsgarth Terminal is straightforward but can be windy. Wear appropriate clothing.
- Taxi Rank Alternative: If you take the bus and the weather turns, don't hesitate to take the short taxi from Viking Bus Station. It's a common request.
- Limited Services: There are no left-luggage facilities at Sumburgh Airport or Lerwick Ferry Terminal. Plan accordingly if you have a long wait.
Local Insight
"Many visitors underestimate the distance and logistics," says a local tour operator. "Pre-booking a taxi is the single best advice for a stress-free start to your Shetland adventure, especially if you're connecting to Aberdeen. For the brave and budget-conscious, the bus is fine—just pack your patience and a waterproof jacket for the walk at the end."
FAQs: Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick Ferry Port Common Questions
Is there a direct bus from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick Ferry Terminal?
No, there is no direct bus that stops exactly at the Lerwick Ferry Terminal. The public bus (Service 6) terminates at Lerwick's Viking Bus Station. From there, it's an 8-10 minute walk (approx. 700m) or a very short taxi ride to the ferry terminal at Holmsgarth Road.
What is the fastest way to travel from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick Ferry Port?
The fastest way is by pre-booked taxi or private transfer. The journey takes approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This is door-to-door service, eliminating waiting time for public transport and the walk from the bus station.
How much does a taxi cost from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick Ferry Port?
A pre-booked fixed-fare taxi typically costs between £45 and £60 for the journey. Metered fares can be slightly higher. It's strongly recommended to pre-book, especially for early morning or late evening ferry connections, to guarantee availability and a fixed price.
Can I use a JR Pass or similar rail pass for this journey?
No, JR Passes are for travel in Japan and are not valid in Shetland. There is no train service on the Shetland Islands. Your transport options are limited to road (taxi, bus, car) or air (between islands, not to the ferry terminal).
I'm arriving on a late flight. Will I be able to get to the ferry port?
Yes, but your options are limited. The public bus (Service 6) does not run late at night. A pre-booked taxi is essential for late arrivals. Contact a local taxi firm like Sinclair's Taxis or John Leask & Son in advance to arrange a pickup. Do not rely on finding a taxi on the spot.
Is it easy to walk from Lerwick town centre to the Ferry Port with luggage?
The walk from the Viking Bus Station or most town centre hotels to Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal is mostly flat and takes 8-15 minutes. However, the path can be exposed to wind and weather. With heavy or multiple bags, a taxi (a 2-minute ride) is a more comfortable and reliable choice, especially in poor weather.
Should I rent a car at Sumburgh Airport for my trip to the ferry?
Only if you plan to explore Shetland before your ferry. For a direct transfer, it's not cost-effective. Rental costs, fuel, and the one-way drop-off fee (if you leave it in Lerwick) will far exceed a taxi fare. Additionally, you'll need to find and pay for parking in Lerwick near the ferry terminal.
How early should I arrive at Lerwick Ferry Port before my sailing?
For NorthLink Ferries to Aberdeen or Kirkwall, check-in typically closes 45 minutes before departure for foot passengers and 60 minutes for vehicles. Aim to arrive at the terminal at least 60-75 minutes before sailing time to allow for check-in, security, and boarding procedures.