FerryConnect

Scotland → Orkney

Scrabster → Stromness (Orkney)

The classic ferry to Orkney across the Pentland Firth, passing the Old Man of Hoy sea stack on the way into Stromness. It is the main car route to Orkney from the far north of the Scottish mainland (NC500).

⏱ 1h 30m🚢 1 operator📅 Two to three sailings daily🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) takes 1h 30m across the Pentland Firth, operated by NorthLink Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: two to three sailings daily.

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 Scrabster and Stromness (Orkney)

📐 25 Nautical Miles
Scrabster⇄Stromness (Orkney)
⏱ 1h 30m · 📐 25 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney)?

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

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
NorthLink Ferries1h 30mMV Hamnavoe

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

25 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Thurso station (about 2 miles from Scrabster) has trains to Inverness
  • Stromness connects by bus to Kirkwall and the Neolithic sites of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingAberdeen → Lerwick (Shetland)12h – 14h (overnight) · NorthLink FerriesNearby alternative crossingUllapool → Stornoway (Isle of Lewis)About 2h 45m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingUig (Isle of Skye) → Tarbert (Isle of Harris)About 1h 40m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)Nearby alternative crossingMallaig → Armadale (Isle of Skye)30m – 45m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)More ferries in United KingdomDover → Calais1h 30m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish FerriesMore ferries in United KingdomOban → Craignure46m · Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney)?
The crossing typically takes 1h 30m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney)?
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 Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) 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 Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) 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 Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) 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 Scrabster from Stromness (Orkney) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 25 nautical miles (roughly 46 km).