Kirkwall Cruise Port
Europe - Western Europe
About Kirkwall Cruise Port
Port Overview
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland, has docking at Kirkwall Port. Travelers explore Skara Brae’s Neolithic ruins and St. Magnus Cathedral. Excursions visit Ring of Brodgar’s stone circle. Local markets sell Orkney cheese. The peak season, May to September, brings mild weather. Photography captures ancient sites and rugged coasts. Dining onboard includes bannocks, an Orkney staple. Souvenirs, like wool crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Neolithic history. Light layers and waterproof shoes suit the cool climate. Comfortable shoes enhance ruin tours. Kirkwall’s ancient heritage offers a vibrant Scottish stop, blending history with coastal charm.
Europe
Europe - Western Europe
55°F / 32°F
avg high / low in March
🚢 Itineraries
281
cruise itineraries
🎯 Excursions
4
available excursions
🛡️ Safety Score
9.1 / 10
#163 of 1018 in Europe
Quick Links
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Cruises to Kirkwall
Kirkwall Upcoming Cruise Itineraries
14 nightsfrom $2,859
MS Rotterdam
Holland America Cruise Line
14 Night Fjords Of Norway Collectors Voyage (Rotterdam Roundtrip)
12 nightsfrom $3,258
Majestic Princess
Princess Cruise Line
12 Night British Isles With France & Belfast (Southampton Roundtrip)
7 nightsfrom $1,459MS Rotterdam
Holland America Cruise Line
7 Night Norwegian Fjords With Scotland (Rotterdam Roundtrip)
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
Cruise Port Location
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.
What to Do
Kirkwall Top Activities & Attractions
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.
Kirkwall Fun Facts
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 Excursions
Kirkwall Popular Shore Tours
Explore the best excursions and tours near Kirkwall cruise port. From guided sightseeing to adventure activities, find the perfect way to make the most of your time at this cruise port.
Cruise Port Schedule
Kirkwall Cruise Port Ships & Passenger Count
How many people will be in Kirkwall cruise port during your visit? Which other ships will be docked? Use the date selector below to find cruise port traffic for Kirkwall on any date.
No ships scheduled
No cruise ships are in port at Kirkwall on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
Kirkwall Cruise Terminals
Hoy Cruise Terminal
Hoy 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.
Explore Kirkwall Cruise Port
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is a popular cruise port destination. Visitors can explore the area's rich history and culture, from ancient monuments to modern attractions. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as walking and cycling trails, bird watching, and fishing. Nature lovers can explore the stunning coastline and take in the breathtaking views. Shopping and dining are also popular activities, with a variety of local shops and restaurants to choose from. Visitors can also take a tour of the local whisky distilleries and learn about the area's unique whisky-making process. With so much to see and do, Kirkwall is a great destination for a cruise port excursion.
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beaches are made up of white sand and crystal clear waters, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The most popular beaches near Kirkwall are the Sands of Wright, the Bay of Skaill, and the Bay of Firth. The Sands of Wright is a stunning beach with white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Bay of Skaill is a sheltered bay with a sandy beach, ideal for swimming and exploring the rock pools. The Bay of Firth is a stunning beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and exploring the rock pools. All of these beaches are easily accessible from the cruise port and offer a great day out for visitors.
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.
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.
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 is known for its independent shops and boutiques, offering a wide range of unique items from local crafts to designer clothing. The town also has a number of galleries and gift shops, as well as a selection of supermarkets and other stores.
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.
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.
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 Weather Forecast
Average Monthly Weather
March
Typical Weather
Average High
Average Low
Rainfall
Daily average
3.3 in monthly total
Kirkwall Cruise Port FAQ
Quick answers about Kirkwall cruise port covering location, safety, weather, excursions, and more.
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.
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.
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.
In March, Kirkwall cruise port has average high temperatures of 55°F (13°C) and average lows of 32°F (0°C).
There are currently 4 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.
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.
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.
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.
The address of Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland cruise port is:Kirkwall Harbour,Kirkwall,Orkney Islands,Scotland,KW15 1HU
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Kirkwall today. Use the Cruise Port Traffic tool above to check the cruise schedule for Kirkwall on any past or future date.