Kirkwall
Kirkwall, Scotland is a captivating port of call in the Orkney Islands, a stunning archipelago with a rich history that dates back 5,000 years. As the capital of the islands, Kirkwall is a vibrant and historic town that serves as a gateway to some of the world's most significant Neolithic sites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a cruiser, Kirkwall is an excellent destination for those who want to experience a unique blend of Scottish and Viking heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will either berth at the Hatston Pier or the Kirkwall Pier. Hatston Pier is Orkney's main cruise ship terminal. If your ship berths here, a free shuttle bus service will take you on a short, continuous rotation into the town center. If your ship is smaller and tenders into Kirkwall Bay, a tender boat will bring you to the Kirkwall Harbour, which is right in the heart of the town.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Hatston Pier is an industrial port, but a reception building is set up to welcome cruise passengers. If you arrive at Kirkwall Pier, you'll disembark right in the heart of the town, just a short walk from local shopping areas and restaurants.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
At the Hatston Pier, you will find a reception building with a free Wi-Fi connection, restrooms, and a meet-and-greet service to provide you with a welcome map and guide. The shuttle bus will take you to the Kirkwall Travel Centre, where you can find the VisitScotland Visitor Information Centre. This center offers detailed information on tourism, transportation, and more.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. While you'll encounter a distinct Orcadian dialect, it is easy to understand. You will have no problem navigating or communicating.
💰 Money
The currency is the British Pound (£), just as it is in the rest of the United Kingdom. Be aware that Scottish banknotes, issued by several different banks in Scotland, may look different from the banknotes you would find in England. They are legal tender throughout the UK. Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and ATMs are easy to find in Kirkwall's town center.
🚗 Transportation
To get from Hatston Pier to the town of Kirkwall, you will need to take the complimentary shuttle bus service. Once in town, you have several options for getting around.
Walking: The best way to explore Kirkwall is on foot. The town is small and very walkable, with its main attractions and shops all within a short distance of the town center.
Bus: Orkney has an excellent public bus system that can take you to many of the island's main attractions, including the famous Neolithic sites. The Kirkwall Travel Centre is the main bus station.
Taxis: Taxis are available in Kirkwall, and many local taxi drivers offer private tours of the island, which is a great option for a group.
Ride-Sharing: Uber is not available in Kirkwall.
♿ Accessibility
Kirkwall has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. While the shuttle buses from Hatston Pier are wheelchair accessible, the historic areas of Kirkwall, with their uneven cobblestone streets, can be challenging to navigate. The main attractions of the island, with their rugged terrain and hiking trails, are also not fully accessible.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
If you dock at Hatston Pier, the best way to get to town is to take the complimentary shuttle bus service provided by the port. The bus will drop you off at the Kirkwall Travel Centre, which is a two-minute walk from the town's main shopping area. If you tender into Kirkwall Harbour, you'll disembark right in the heart of town.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Kirkwall, including at the Kirkwall Travel Centre and are generally clean and free to use. You can also find restrooms at many of the restaurants, cafes, and museums.
💊 Drugstore
Boots Pharmacy: 47-49 Broad St, Kirkwall KW15 1DW.
Superdrug: 43-45 Albert St, Kirkwall KW15 1HP.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk the Historic Town Center and Visit St. Magnus Cathedral: For a taste of the town's rich history, take a walk through the historic town center. You can see the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norse and Romanesque architecture. It's built from distinctive red and yellow sandstone and is a must-see.
Dine on Local Seafood or a Pattie Supper: Orkney is famous for its fresh seafood. Seek out a local restaurant and order a plate of local seafood, or try a local delicacy, a "pattie supper," which is a type of meat patty served with chips (fries).
Explore the Neolithic Heart of Orkney: For a deep dive into the islands' history, take a tour or a bus to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the "Neolithic Heart of Orkney." You can visit the Ring of Brodgar, a massive stone circle; Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village; and Maeshowe, a chambered cairn. It's a fantastic and unique experience.
