Travelling by ferry to Shetland Islands

To reach Shetland Islands by boat, you can depart from 1 countries: United Kingdom. The ferries of the 1 companies (NorthLink Ferries) operating crossings to Shetland Islands call at 3 ports: Aberdeen, Lerwick and Kirkwall.

With a network of 2 ferry lines, it is easy to reach Shetland Islands and find the perfect crossing. Ferry companies NorthLink Ferries offer up to 11 crossings a week. Find all prices and best deals for Shetland Islands on our Vivanoda search engine.

Ferries to Shetland Islands in figures

Countries
United Kingdom
Number of crossings
11 crossings a week
Number of ports
3
Number of ferry connections
2
Number of ferry companies
1
Search for ferries
Search and book accommodation

Most popular ferry routes to Shetland Islands

To travel to Shetland Islands by ferry, the ferry operators NorthLink Ferries offer daily crossings from Kirkwall, Lerwick or Aberdeen.

Search for ferries
Search and book accommodation
Ferry to Shetland Islands - Compare prices and book cheap tickets

Ferry Shetland Islands: Travel Guide

Ferry Shetland Islands: What to see and do?

The magnificent Shetland Islands are an archipelago in the north of Scotland. Known for their natural beauty and unique culture, these islands are a must-see destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

When you arrive by ferry in the Shetland Islands, you'll be immediately impressed by the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you. Steep cliffs, white sandy beaches and wild landscapes form a breathtaking landscape. You'll also receive a warm welcome from the locals, who are renowned for their legendary hospitality.

Shetland's main town is Lerwick, located on the main island, Mainland. This charming town offers a lively atmosphere with its cobbled streets, colourful houses and craft shops. Don't miss Lerwick's picturesque harbour, where you can see traditional fishing boats and pleasure yachts. You can also visit Fort Charlotte, a 17th-century fortress with breathtaking views over the town.

If you're interested in history, don't miss the Shetland Museum in Lerwick. This interactive museum tells the fascinating story of Shetland, from prehistory to modern times. There are exhibitions on the fishing industry, Viking culture and the lives of islanders through the ages.

Venture out of Lerwick and you'll discover many hidden gems in the Shetland Islands. Don't miss Jarlshof, a unique archaeological site housing the remains of over 4,000 years of history. Here you can see Bronze Age structures, Viking houses and medieval buildings.

For nature lovers, the Shetland Islands also offer a wealth of activities. Explore the nature reserves at Sumburgh Head and Hermaness, where you can spot spectacular seabirds such as puffins and gannets. If you're lucky, you may even spot seals and sea lions on your coastal walks.

Another must-see is the Up Helly Aa, a Viking festival held every January. During this festival, Shetlanders come together to celebrate their Viking heritage with parades, bonfires and the burning of a replica Viking ship. It's a breathtaking spectacle that will immerse you in the history of this unique region.

Finally, don't forget to sample the delicious local cuisine during your stay in Shetland. Fresh seafood, such as lobster and oysters, is a speciality of the region. Try bannock, a traditional Scottish bread, and black pudding, a blood sausage.

Shetland Islands: When to visit?

The best time to travel to the UK is generally in summer, from June to August. During this period, temperatures average between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, providing pleasant conditions in which to explore the many tourist sites and enjoy the country's magnificent landscapes. The days are also longer, which means more time to explore the bustling cities of London, Edinburgh and Belfast, as well as the magnificent national parks, coastlines and castles.

However, even in summer, it's important to be prepared for sudden showers and unexpected temperature changes. It is advisable to bring waterproof clothing to deal with any unforeseen weather conditions.

Search for ferries
Search and book accommodation

Main ports of call for a ferry crossing to Shetland Islands

Other ferry destinations from Shetland Islands

None

None
None
None