FerryConnect

Scotland → Shetland

Aberdeen → Lerwick (Shetland)

The overnight lifeline from mainland Scotland to Shetland. Some sailings call at Kirkwall in Orkney. With cabins, pods and a restaurant, it is the main way to take a car to Shetland.

⏱ 12h – 14h (overnight)🚢 1 operator📅 Nightly departures; some sailings call at Kirkwall (Orkney)🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) takes 12h – 14h (overnight) across the North Sea, operated by NorthLink Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: nightly departures; some sailings call at Kirkwall (Orkney).

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Aberdeen and Lerwick (Shetland)

📐 190 Nautical Miles
Aberdeen⇄Lerwick (Shetland)
⏱ 12h – 14h (overnight) · 📐 190 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Compare All Operators

Ready to cross from Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland)?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

Compare on Direct Ferries→
🏨Port Hotels (Aberdeen)
Rates →
🚆Port Trains & Buses
Schedules →
🚗Car Hire at Quay
Compare →
🎟Things to do in Lerwick (Shetland)
Tours →

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
NorthLink Ferries12h – 14hMV Hjaltland, MV Hrossey

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

190 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Aberdeen ferry terminal is a short walk from Aberdeen rail and bus stations
  • Holmsgarth terminal is about 1 km from Lerwick town centre, with buses across Shetland

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingScrabster → Stromness (Orkney)1h 30m · NorthLink FerriesMore ferries in United KingdomDover → Calais1h 30m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish FerriesMore ferries in United KingdomOban → Craignure46m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)More ferries in United KingdomBowness → Far Sawrey10m · Westmorland & Furness CouncilMore ferries in United KingdomCalais → Dover1h 30m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish FerriesMore ferries in United KingdomHolyhead → Dublin3h 15m · Irish Ferries, Stena Line
🌊 North Sea ferries🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland)?
The crossing typically takes 12h – 14h (overnight). Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland)?
NorthLink Ferries operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Aberdeen from Lerwick (Shetland) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 190 nautical miles (roughly 352 km).