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EuropeEurope - Western Europe
Kirkwall Cruise Port
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
Kirkwall is the largest town in the Orkney Islands, Scotland.
Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#163
of 1018 ports in the Europe
Today · high / low
65° / 45°
September normals
Europe - Western Europe
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
// Kirkwall cruise port overview
The cruise port in Kirkwall,
explained
Lat: 59.0°NLong: 3.0°WTimezone: Europe/LondonINTN code: KOI
Kirkwall is the largest town in the Orkney Islands, Scotland. It is located on the Mainland, the largest of the Orkney Islands.
Kirkwall is a vibrant and bustling town, with a population of around 8,500 people. It is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, pubs, and other attractions.
The town is also home to the St Magnus Cathedral, a 12th century building that is one of the most impressive examples of Romanesque architecture in Scotland. The town also has a number of museums, including the Orkney Museum, the Orkney Natural History Museum, and the Orkney Heritage Centre.
Kirkwall is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the St Magnus Festival and the Orkney Folk Festival. Kirkwall is a great place to visit, with plenty of things to do and see.
It is a great place to explore the history and culture of the Orkney Islands, and to experience the unique atmosphere of the town.
Ships visiting
12 lines
20 ships call at Kirkwall
Peak passenger day
5,714
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$218
per person · 18 tours
Most ships dock at
8:00 AM
arrival for 53% of calls
Average port time
10h
alongside, typical call
Excursions in Kirkwall start at $218.
Browse Kirkwall excursions// Kirkwall Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Kirkwall
157 cruises stop here in Kirkwall during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Kirkwall cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Celebrity Eclipse
21% offbalcony
MSC Preziosa
12% offbalcony
Queen Victoria
9% offinside
Azamara Journey
8% offinside
MSC Preziosa
7% offinside
MSC Preziosa
7% offinside
MSC Meraviglia
7% offbalcony
// Kirkwall Cruise Port location
Where is Kirkwall Cruise Port?
Kirkwall is the main town and capital of the Orkney Islands, located in the north of Scotland. It is situated on the east coast of the Mainland, the largest of the Orkney Islands. The cruise port is located in the heart of the town, close to the harbour and the ferry terminal. It is within walking distance of many of the town's attractions, including St Magnus Cathedral, the Earl's Palace, and the Orkney Museum. The port is also close to the shops, restaurants, and pubs of Kirkwall.
- General location
- Europe
- Category
- Europe - Western Europe
- Coordinates
- 58.99°N, 2.96°W
- Time zone
- Europe/London
Cruise port · 58.99°N, 2.96°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Kirkwall cruise port guide
What to do in Kirkwall
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Your day ashore
You'll have about 10 hours in Kirkwall. Most ships dock around 8:00 AM.
Median across 38 scheduled calls
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Historical Sightseeing
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is home to a wealth of historical sites and attractions. Visitors can explore the ruins of the 12th century St. Magnus Cathedral, the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, and the Iron Age Broch of Gurness. Other popular sites include the Earl's Palace, the Bishop's Palace, and the Italian Chapel. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Orkney Museum to learn more about the area's rich history.
Theme 2
Cultural Experiences
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is a great place to experience the local culture. Visitors can take part in traditional activities such as whisky tasting, or visit the local markets to sample local produce. There are also plenty of festivals and events to enjoy throughout the year, such as the Orkney Folk Festival and the St. Magnus Festival. Visitors can also take part in workshops to learn about traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery.
Theme 3
Outdoor Activities
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline and take part in activities such as kayaking, sailing, and fishing. There are also plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore, as well as bird watching opportunities. For those looking for a more leisurely activity, there are plenty of beaches to relax on and enjoy the stunning views.
Kirkwall cruise port beaches
3 in our guideS
Scapa Beach
Scapa Beach is a beautiful beach located on the east coast of the Orkney Islands. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is made up of white sand and is surrounded by stunning cliffs and rock formations. It is a great spot for bird watching, as many species of seabirds can be seen here. The beach is also a great spot for fishing, with a variety of species to be found in the waters. It is also a great spot for kayaking and other water sports.
S
Stromness Beach
Stromness Beach is a stunning beach located on the west coast of the Orkney Islands. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is made up of golden sand and is surrounded by stunning cliffs and rock formations. It is a great spot for bird watching, as many species of seabirds can be seen here. The beach is also a great spot for fishing, with a variety of species to be found in the waters. It is also a great spot for kayaking and other water sports.
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St. Margaret's Hope Beach
St. Margaret's Hope Beach is a stunning beach located on the south coast of the Orkney Islands. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is made up of golden sand and is surrounded by stunning cliffs and rock formations. It is a great spot for bird watching, as many species of seabirds can be seen here. The beach is also a great spot for fishing, with a variety of species to be found in the waters.
// Kirkwall fun facts
Kirkwall Cathedral
Kirkwall is home to the magnificent Kirkwall Cathedral, which was built in the 12th century. The cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture and is a popular tourist attraction. It is also the burial place of the famous explorer, William Balfour.
Neolithic History
Kirkwall is home to a number of Neolithic sites, including the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle that dates back to around 2500 BC. The area is also home to the Standing Stones of Stenness, which are believed to be even older. The area is a great place to explore the history of the Neolithic period.
The Orkney Islands
Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, an archipelago located off the northern coast of Scotland. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including puffins, seals, and dolphins. The islands are also home to a number of archaeological sites, including the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar.
Kirkwall cruise port shopping
3 in our guideT
The Orcadian Craftsman
The Orcadian Craftsman is a great place to find unique souvenirs from the Orkney Islands. Located in the heart of Kirkwall, this shop offers a wide selection of handmade crafts, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles. The shop also has a selection of books and other items related to the local culture and history. The friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home with you.
T
The Orkney Wine Company
The Orkney Wine Company is a great place to find unique wines from the Orkney Islands. They offer a wide selection of red, white, and sparkling wines, as well as a selection of liqueurs and spirits. The shop also has a selection of gourmet food items, such as chutneys, jams, and cheeses. The friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect bottle of wine or other item to take home with you.
T
The Orkney Soap Company
The Orkney Soap Company is a great place to find natural, handmade soaps and other bath and body products. All of their products are made with natural ingredients, and they offer a wide variety of scents and textures. The shop also has a selection of candles, lotions, and other items that make great souvenirs. The friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect product to take home with you.
// Kirkwall Cruise Port Terminals
Which Kirkwall cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
3 piers in Kirkwall
Pier 1 of 3
Hoy Cruise Terminal
Hoy KW17 2JX, UKHoy Cruise Terminal is located in the town of Hoy, Orkney Islands, Scotland. It is a popular port of call for cruise ships visiting the area and offers a range of services for passengers, including a cafe, a gift shop, and a range of other amenities. The terminal is located close to the town centre, making it easy to access.
Pier 2 of 3
Kirkwall Cruise Terminal
Harbour Rd, Kirkwall KW15 1LE, UKKirkwall Cruise Terminal is the main cruise ship terminal in Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland. It is located on the waterfront of the city and is the main port of call for cruise ships visiting the area. The terminal offers a range of services for passengers, including a cafe, a gift shop, and a range of other amenities.
Pier 3 of 3
Stromness Cruise Terminal
Stromness KW16 3AA, UKStromness Cruise Terminal is located in the town of Stromness, Orkney Islands, Scotland. It is a popular port of call for cruise ships visiting the area and offers a range of services for passengers, including a cafe, a gift shop, and a range of other amenities. The terminal is located close to the town centre, making it easy to access.
Wi-Fi
The Kirkwall Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to all passengers. Additionally, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer free wifi access.
Safety
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is a very safe cruise port. The crime rate in the area is very low, and the local police are very active in keeping the area safe. The port is also well-lit and monitored by CCTV cameras. Additionally, the port is located in a very scenic area, making it a popular tourist destination.
Port address
Kirkwall Harbour,Kirkwall,Orkney Islands,Scotland,KW15 1HU
Kirkwall cruise port car rental
The closest car rental option near Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland cruise port is Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from small city cars to larger family cars and vans. They also offer a range of additional services, such as GPS navigation, child seats, and additional drivers. Other car rental options in the area include Europcar, Enterprise, and Avis. All of these companies offer a variety of vehicles and services to meet your needs.
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland cruise port excursions
Most Popular Kirkwall Cruise Port Tours
18 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Kirkwall shore tours
Curated from 18 · not a search result
Worry-free4.6(111)$262
Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall
Worry-free4.9(62)$535
From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour
5.0(32)$449
Tours around the Neolithic Sites of Orkney (Guided from my car)
3.8(21)$1,294
Scapa Tours
6hNature and Wildlife Tours
View Details for Scapa Tours (opens in a new tab)
4.5(11)$218
Private Full Day Tour in Orkney
8hPrivate Sightseeing Tours
View Details for Private Full Day Tour in Orkney (opens in a new tab)
3.6(7)$297
Orkney Island Tour with Expert Guide
4.6(7)$422
Taxi / Tours of Orkney (self guided)
5.0(6)$231
Bespoke Private Guided Tours
8hHistorical Tours
View Details for Bespoke Private Guided Tours (opens in a new tab)// Weather
Kirkwall Cruise Port Weather
Europe - Western Europe·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Kirkwall
54°
Avg · °F
Mild, frequent showers
- High
- 65°F
- Low
- 45°F
- Rain
- 3.9 in
// Year-round in Kirkwall
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Kirkwall cruise ship schedule
Kirkwall Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Kirkwall today, Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Schedule updated
Planning around the crowds?
- Kirkwall cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Keep exploring
Also on your cruise
81% of Kirkwall cruises also call at one of these.
// Questions
Kirkwall cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Kirkwall.
Where is Kirkwall cruise port located?
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland cruise port is located in Europe. Kirkwall is the main town and capital of the Orkney Islands, located in the north of Scotland. It is situated on the east coast of the Mainland, the largest of the Orkney Islands. The cruise port is located in the heart of the town, close to the harbour and the ferry terminal. It is within walking distance of many of the town's attractions, including St Magnus Cathedral, the Earl's Palace, and the Orkney Museum. The port is also close to the shops, restaurants, and pubs of Kirkwall.
Is Kirkwall a good cruise port to visit?
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is a great cruise port. The port is located in the heart of the Orkney Islands, which are known for their stunning scenery, wildlife, and archaeological sites. The port offers a variety of shore excursions, including visits to the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Italian Chapel. There are also plenty of opportunities for whale watching, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
How safe is Kirkwall cruise port for passengers?
Kirkwall cruise port has a safety score of 9.1 out of 10, ranking #163 of 1018 ports in Europe. Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is a very safe cruise port. The crime rate in the area is very low, and the local police are very active in keeping the area safe. The port is also well-lit and monitored by CCTV cameras. Additionally, the port is located in a very scenic area, making it a popular tourist destination.
What is the weather like at Kirkwall cruise port in September?
In September, Kirkwall cruise port has average high temperatures of 65°F (18°C) and average lows of 45°F (7°C).
How many excursions are available at Kirkwall cruise port?
There are currently 18 excursions and tours available at Kirkwall cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Kirkwall cruise port?
Kirkwall cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Historical Sightseeing, Cultural Experiences, Outdoor Activities. Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is known for its rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and monuments, such as the 12th century St. Magnus Cathedral, the Earl's Palace, and the Bishop's Palace. There are also many museums and galleries to explore, such as the Orkney Museum, the Orkney Natural History Museum, and the Orkney Library and Archive. Outdoor activities are also popular in Kirkwall, with plenty of walking and cycling trails, as well as opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and kayaking. The area is also known for its stunning scenery, with beautiful beaches, cliffs, and rolling hills.
Can I rent a car at Kirkwall cruise port?
The closest car rental option near Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland cruise port is Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from small city cars to larger family cars and vans. They also offer a range of additional services, such as GPS navigation, child seats, and additional drivers. Other car rental options in the area include Europcar, Enterprise, and Avis. All of these companies offer a variety of vehicles and services to meet your needs.
What is the WiFi situation at Kirkwall cruise port?
The Kirkwall Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to all passengers. Additionally, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer free wifi access.
Where is the cruise terminal at Kirkwall cruise port?
The address of Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland cruise port is:Kirkwall Harbour,Kirkwall,Orkney Islands,Scotland,KW15 1HU
What is the Kirkwall Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Kirkwall today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Kirkwall on any past or future date.