Explore on your own rating
Kirkwall is easy by shuttle; the Neolithic sites need a bus or tour.
Where ships dock
- Hatston Pier (about 2 km from Kirkwall)
- Tender into Kirkwall harbour (some ships)
Getting to town
A free shuttle runs from Hatston Pier to Kirkwall Travel Centre (about 7 minutes), from about 8:30 am until about an hour before sailing. St Magnus Cathedral is a 5-minute walk from the Travel Centre.
Buses leave from Kirkwall Travel Centre: the X1 serves Skara Brae, and a seasonal tourist route (T11) serves the Ring of Brodgar. Timetables are limited, so check return times; tours are simpler.
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Money & entry
Currency: British pound (£). Contactless cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Entry: U.S. citizens need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling, including on cruises that call at UK ports. It costs £20 on GOV.UK (beware look-alike sites charging more), lasts 2 years or until your passport expires, and since Feb 25, 2026 carriers must refuse boarding without one. Apply on GOV.UK or the official "UK ETA" app. (Checked Oct 2026.)
Top sights nearby
- St Magnus Cathedral (free)
- Bishop's and Earl's Palaces
- Skara Brae
- Ring of Brodgar
- Highland Park distillery
Beaches
- None near the pier.
Safety & tips
- Bus timetables to the Neolithic sites are limited: check return times.
- Skara Brae tickets can sell out on cruise days.
- Weather changes fast; bring waterproofs.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
Catch a shuttle back at least an hour before sailing.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.
Shore excursions that get you back on time
Prefer a guided option in Kirkwall (Orkney)? Browse shore excursions with reviews, and pick one that returns well before all-aboard.
Find Kirkwall (Orkney) shore excursions on Viator ↗
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Quick answers
Can you explore Kirkwall (Orkney) on your own?
Yes, with some planning (rated Moderate). Kirkwall is easy by shuttle; the Neolithic sites need a bus or tour.
How far is it from the cruise dock to town in Kirkwall (Orkney)?
A free shuttle runs from Hatston Pier to Kirkwall Travel Centre (about 7 minutes), from about 8:30 am until about an hour before sailing. St Magnus Cathedral is a 5-minute walk from the Travel Centre.
Do I need a passport for Kirkwall (Orkney)?
U.S. citizens need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling, including on cruises that call at UK ports. It costs £20 on GOV.UK (beware look-alike sites charging more), lasts 2 years or until your passport expires, and since Feb 25, 2026 carriers must refuse boarding without one. Apply on GOV.UK or the official "UK ETA" app. (Checked Oct 2026.)
When should I head back to the ship in Kirkwall (Orkney)?
Catch a shuttle back at least an hour before sailing.
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