Invergordon
Invergordon is a small town on the Cromarty Firth in the Scottish Highlands. While the town itself is compact, its significance as a cruise port is its role as a gateway to some of Scotland's most iconic and breathtaking attractions, including Inverness, Loch Ness, and the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands. The port has become an expert at welcoming large cruise ships and providing a smooth transition from the ship to the heart of the region.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Port of Cromarty Firth in Invergordon. There are two main piers, Admiralty and Saltburn, both of which are within a very short walk of the town center. While the port is a busy industrial and naval hub, you can walk directly from the gangway to the visitor center and the town itself. The walk is very short, and you will not need a shuttle. The port can accommodate multiple large ships at once.
⚓ Terminal Information
The main cruise terminal is a modern, purpose-built visitor center located on the quayside. As you disembark, you'll walk a short distance along a well-marked path to the visitor center. The walk is easy and straightforward.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The visitor center is well-equipped with amenities to help you get started on your day. You'll find a welcome desk with friendly local volunteers who can provide maps and information about the town and the wider Highlands. The center also has restrooms and Wi-Fi. Tour pickups are well-organized and located just outside the terminal building.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. While you'll encounter a distinct Scottish accent and a few local colloquialisms, you will have no trouble navigating or communicating.
💰 Money
The currency is the British Pound (£). Be aware that Scottish banknotes, issued by several different banks, are legal tender throughout the UK but may look different. It is always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases at local shops or markets, but credit cards are widely accepted everywhere. ATMs are easy to find in Invergordon and are plentiful in Inverness.
🚗 Transportation
Invergordon's town center is very walkable, as are the piers. To get to Inverness and other attractions, you have several options:
· Train: This is a very popular and scenic option. The Invergordon railway station is a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal. The train to Inverness takes about 50 minutes and offers beautiful views along the way.
· Bus: A public bus service, like the 25X, runs from Invergordon to Inverness and is a very affordable option. The journey takes about 50 minutes.
· Taxis/Private Tours: Taxis are available at the cruise pier, but they can be expensive. Many local taxi and tour companies offer private tours that can be a great option for a group, allowing you to create your own itinerary and visit multiple sites in one day. You should always agree on a price before you get in.
♿ Accessibility
The accessibility of this port is a 4 out of 10. The walk from the ship to the town center is on a flat, well-maintained path. However, once you venture into the wider Highlands, many of the famous castles and historic sites may have cobblestone paths, steep steps, and uneven terrain that can be challenging for those with limited mobility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get from the cruise port to the town of Invergordon is to walk. It's a very short and easy stroll. To get to Inverness, the train is the best and most convenient option.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Invergordon and are generally clean and free to use. You can also find restrooms at many of the restaurants and cafes in town.
💊 Drugstore
· Boots Pharmacy: 4-6 High Street, Invergordon, IV18 0AE.
· Lochaber Pharmacy: 130 High Street, Invergordon, IV18 0AJ.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Walk the Invergordon Mural Trail: Instead of heading straight to a distant city, take some time to explore Invergordon's unique Mural Trail. The town is famous for its large murals painted on the sides of buildings that depict local history, culture, and life. It's a fantastic and free way to learn about the town's heritage and see some local art.
2. Visit a Local Distillery: The Highlands are famous for whisky, and Invergordon is an ideal place to learn about the process and taste some local spirits. Take a taxi or pre-booked tour to a nearby distillery like Glenmorangie or The Singleton. You'll get to see the process of making Scotch whisky and taste some of the best in the world. This is a great way to support a local industry and get a true taste of Scotland.
3. Dine on Local Fish and Chips: Invergordon is a coastal town, so it's a great place to get some fresh seafood. Find a local "chippy" and order some traditional fish and chips. This simple but delicious meal is a classic British dish, and it's even better when made with fresh-caught local fish.
