Orkney Day Trip
£99 per person
THIS TOUR IS NOT SUITABLE IF YOU ARE ARRIVING ON A CRUISE SHIP IN KIRKWALL, PLEASE LOOK AT THE WEST MAINLAND TOUR INSTEAD. (The starting point is in Stromness which is 15 miles from the cruise port in Kirkwall.)
Timed to meet the NorthLink Ferry from the Scottish mainland, this full-day, small-group guided tour is ideal for visitors with just one day to experience Orkney. Designed to make the most of your time in Orkney, the tour explores some of Orkney’s most remarkable Neolithic sites while showcasing the islands’ dramatic coastal scenery and rich natural landscapes. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will bring Orkney’s ancient past to life, offering insight, context, and local stories that deepen your understanding of this unique archipelago.
Our Itinerary
- Cliffs of Yesnaby - dramatic cliffs and stunning scenery.
- Skara Brae- 5000 year old stone-age village, discovered in 1850 when a great storm blew away a sand dune to reveal the village beneath. (optional visit of Skaill House, one of Orkney's finest manor houses)
- Ring of Brodgar - Stone circle and henge monument estimated to be around 4500 years old.
- Standing Stones of Stenness - The smaller of two stone circles you will visit, one of the oldest stone circles in the UK.
- Kirkwall OR Italian Chapel - explore the capital of Orkney and see the St Magnus Cathedral or visit the stunning chapel built by Italian Prisoners of War during World War 2.
- Scapa Flow - scenic drive of Scapa Flow, used as a British Naval base during World War 1 and World War 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ferry do we need to catch?
You will need to travel on the MV Hamnavoe that is operated by Northlink Ferries. The ferry departs at 0845, check in closes 30 minutes before the sailing departs so please ensure you arrive in plenty of time.
How do we book the ferry?
You can book the ferry at https://www.northlinkferries.co.uk/
How much does the ferry cost?
The ferry costs vary depending on season, age and concessionary travel. Please look on the Northlink website for accurate prices.
What happens if the ferry doesn't sail due to bad weather?
You will receive a full refund for your tour if the ferry doesn't sail for any reason. However if you miss the ferry sailing, we are unable to issue a refund for the tour. We may however be able to transfer your booking to another date.
What if the ferry is late arriving in Stromness?
If the ferry is running late, the tour will wait for the ferry to arrive before starting the tour.
I am arriving to Orkney via cruise ship, is this a good tour for me?
We would not recommend this tour if you are arriving via cruise ship to either Hatston Pier or Kirkwall Anchorage. However if you did decide to book this tour anyway, you would have to find your own way to Stromness Travel Centre which is around 15 miles.
I am staying in or around Stromness, would this tour be suitable for me?
Yes this tour would be suitable, you would meet the minibus and your guide at Stromness Travel Centre at 1015.
Do you allow dogs on the Day Trip?
We do not allow on our small group tours. We do however allow dogs on our private tours.
What if the ferry is running late?
We will wait on the ferry to arrive and adjust the itinerary to ensure that you return on time for the return ferry.
Tour Information
Meeting Point: Stromness Ferry Terminal
When: Every day (except Sunday)
Start Time: 10.30am
Duration: 5.5 hours
Lunch stop possible at Skara Brae or in Kirkwall, but we recommend that you take a packed lunch if possible.
Transportation
Ford Transit minibus - 16 seat minibus
or
Ford Tourneo Custom - 8-seat minibus
Please note: The seats in our vehicles are between 48cm and 51cm wide. While there is generous legroom, the seat width may feel restrictive for some guests. If you think this may affect your comfort, you're welcome to purchase an additional seat. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns – we're happy to help.
What's Included
- Driver Commentary
- Guided Tour of Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, and Italian Chapel (if chosen)
- Entry Fee for Skara Brae/Skaill House
Not Included
- Ferry Fares
- Entry Fee for Italian Chapel (£4 per person)
- Lunch
