The Hatston Pier cruise terminal sits 3.2 km (2 miles) from Kirkwall’s center, a journey requiring a 10-minute shuttle transfer or a £10.00 (~$13.50 USD) taxi ride. Located in the Orkney Islands, an archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland, this port serves as a gateway to some of Western Europe’s most significant Neolithic sites. You are positioned roughly 25 km (15 miles) east of Stromness and about a 35-minute drive from the UNESCO-listed Skara Brae. Kirkwall is a dedicated ocean cruise port, though its small-town infrastructure can struggle when two or more large vessels dock simultaneously. The waters of the North Sea define the arrival experience, providing a windswept and rugged introduction to the islands. We have tracked arrival patterns and discovered that passengers who wait for the second or third shuttle wave often lose 45 minutes to queueing. This destination rewards those who pre-book private transport to the outlying archaeological sites. It punishes the casual traveler who expects to find a fleet of available taxis at the pier without a prior reservation. You cannot realistically see the 'Heart of Neolithic Orkney' and the South Isles in a single six-hour window. Realism is your best companion here. Choose the ancient stone circles or the medieval cathedral town, but do not attempt both if your time is limited.
Kirkwall is a thinking person's port. It rewards those who appreciate the weight of time and the harsh beauty of a treeless landscape. If you enjoy Viking lore and prehistoric mysteries, it is a 10/10 destination. If you are looking for a bustling Mediterranean-style promenade or high-octane entertainment, stay on the ship and enjoy the spa; the islands' subtle charms will likely feel too quiet for you.
Located 3.2 km (2 miles) from town. Shuttle buses are essential. No pedestrian access allowed through the industrial port gates.
Directly in the town center. Immediate walking access to Victoria Street and the Cathedral.
| Port Name | Hatston Pier |
|---|---|
| Address | Hatston, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1RE, United Kingdom |
| Phone | +44 1856 873636 |
| Website | https://www.orkneyharbours.com/ |
| harbours@orkney.gov.uk | |
| Walking | Not walkable — Pedestrians are prohibited from walking through the industrial Hatston Port area for safety. |
| Taxi | £10.00–£12.00 (~$13.50–$16.00 USD), 10 minutes. Taxis are very limited and must be booked in advance. |
| Transit | The Stagecoach X1 service occasionally passes near the port, but the shuttle is the primary method. |
| Shuttle | Free (usually provided by the cruise line) or £5.00 return (~$6.50 USD). Operates every 15-20 minutes. |
The 'Light in the North' is built from alternating red and yellow sandstone. Most visitors look at the nave, but our destination partners have advised looking closely at the medieval gravestones leaning against the walls, which feature vivid carvings of skulls and hourglasses.
The Earl's Palace is considered one of the finest examples of French-influenced Renaissance architecture in Scotland. It was built using forced labor under Earl Patrick Stewart.
One of the few distilleries that still malts its own barley using local aromatic peat from Hobbister Moor. You can smell the smoke before you reach the gates.
A stone-built Neolithic settlement, older than the Egyptian pyramids. It was revealed by a storm in 1850.
A massive ceremonial circle and henge. 27 of the original 60 stones remain standing.
It avoids the 'bus tour buffet' feel of the larger hotels. It's a Norse-themed pub where locals actually drink and the seafood is landed 50 yards away.
The 8-hour window allows you to conquer the 'Heart of Neolithic Orkney' comfortably, provided you have booked transport.
This is the town's spine, featuring narrow, winding 'pends' and stone-built shops. It maintains a dense, medieval atmosphere where local residents outnumber tourists three-to-one outside of peak cruise hours. The architecture is primarily grey siltstone and red sandstone, giving a somber yet sturdy feel.
A 10-minute shuttle from Hatston Pier drops you at the Travel Centre on Junction Road. From there, it is a 2-minute walk east to Albert Street.
The 'Big Tree' on Albert Street—a 200-year-old plane tree that is a beloved local meeting point despite its modest size.
The interface between the town and the North Sea. It is a working harbor where fishing boats and ferries to the outer isles dock. The air smells of salt and diesel, and the noise level is moderate due to moving heavy goods and the local catch being landed.
A 5-minute walk north from St. Magnus Cathedral. Simply follow the downhill slope of Castle Street toward the water.
The small plaque near the Kirkwall Pier commemorating the 1919 scuttling of the German Fleet in nearby Scapa Flow.
Functional, industrial, and utilitarian. This is where large ships dock. It is not a place for strolling; it consists of warehouses, the ferry terminal, and logistics hubs. The ratio of tourists to locals is 100:1, mostly people waiting for shuttles.
This is where your ship docks. Pedestrian traffic is prohibited within the port gates for safety reasons.
The view across the Bay of Kirkwall toward the island of Shapinsay, visible from the ship's upper decks while docked.
Cruise line tours in Kirkwall are generally overpriced but offer the only reliable way to see Skara Brae if you haven't pre-booked a private driver. Expect to pay $120–$180 USD for a basic four-hour bus tour. These tours frequently suffer from 'convoy syndrome'—where six buses arrive at the Ring of Brodgar simultaneously, destroying the site's atmospheric silence. However, because the distance to Skara Brae is significant, the 'Guaranteed Return to Ship' is a valid reason to book through the line here, as a breakdown on the B9055 could cause you to miss departure.
Independent travelers can time their arrival at the Standing Stones of Stenness for 12:30 PM, exactly when the ship buses are usually at lunch. This gives you the stones nearly to yourself. You can also choose to spend 90 minutes in St. Magnus Cathedral rather than the 20 minutes allotted by most organized tours.
Book a guaranteed back-to-ship excursion at WaterwaysCruise.com. Our destination partners can arrange a 'Neolithic Masterclass' private tour that includes Maeshowe—a chambered cairn that most cruise lines skip because the entry groups are limited to 15 people.
This is a tiny corrugated iron hut turned into a baroque masterpiece by Italian POWs during WWII. It is genuinely moving but takes only 15 minutes to see. Unless you combine it with the Churchill Barriers and Scapa Flow, the 40-minute round-trip transit might feel disproportionate.
This is not merely a church; it is a medieval fortress of faith. Built from red and yellow sandstone quarried from nearby Eday and Head of Holland, the interior glows with a warmth that defies the grey Orkney sky. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here for decades, and the consistent feedback is that the sense of age is palpable. As you walk the nave, you are following in the footsteps of Norse Earls. Look for the massive pillars—some are slightly out of alignment, a testament to the 12th-century engineering. What most visitors walk past is the pillar containing the bones of St. Magnus himself, discovered during renovations in 1919. The atmosphere is quiet, heavy, and profoundly respectful. It rewards the slow walker who stops to read the hand-carved stone memorials. Arrive at 9:00 AM to catch the morning light through the stained glass before the first tour buses arrive from the pier.
Housed in the beautifully preserved Tankerness House, this museum tells the story of Orkney from the Stone Age to the present day. It is the best place to contextualize what you will see at Skara Brae. We measured the average visit time here at 60 minutes, though history buffs will want 90. The Pictish and Viking collections are world-class, featuring intricate silver brooches and bone carvings. The real joy is the 'secret' garden at the back—a quiet, walled oasis that most visitors never realize exists. It offers a stunning, uncrowded view of the Cathedral's spire. If you only have two hours in town, spend one here and one at the Cathedral.
Highland Park is more than a distillery; it is a monument to Orkney's Norse heritage. The whisky is shaped by the climate—no trees grow here, so the peat is infused with heather rather than wood. This produces a floral, subtle smoke that is entirely unique. You will taste the North Sea air in every dram. Even if you don't take the tour, the visitor center is an experience in itself, designed with dark wood and Viking aesthetics. Our destination partners have advised that 'The Magnus' tasting is the best value for money for serious connoisseurs. It is a 15-minute walk from the town center, but it is uphill—take a taxi if you have any mobility concerns.
This is a monument to tyranny. Built in 1607 by Earl Patrick Stewart using forced labor, it was intended to be the grandest palace in Scotland. The Earl was eventually executed for his crimes, leaving behind this magnificent, roofless shell. The stonework is exceptional, featuring corbelled turrets and massive bay windows that were incredibly advanced for their time. It feels haunted by the ambition and cruelty of its creator. We have tracked this site across multiple seasons and found it is rarely crowded, offering a peaceful alternative to the Cathedral. It provides a stark contrast between the humble stone houses of the common folk and the ego of the ruling class.
Skara Brae is the crown jewel of Orcadian archaeology. Ten stone houses, connected by low tunnels, sit nestled in the dunes of the Bay of Skaill. They are so well-preserved that the stone beds, dressers, and hearths are still in place, looking as though the inhabitants left only yesterday. In reality, they left 5,000 years ago. Standing here, looking out at the Atlantic, you feel the fragility of human civilization. The wind is nearly always blowing, adding to the site's prehistoric atmosphere. We measured the walking distance from the visitor center to the village at 400 meters—be prepared for the exposure. This is a must-see, but it requires a plan. Most guides suggest a quick look, but we recommend at least 90 minutes to include the manor house, Skaill House, which is included in your ticket.
Helgi's is inspired by Orkney's Viking past, with dark wood, local ales, and a menu that highlights the islands' incredible produce. You must order the Cullen Skink; it is creamy, smoky, and the perfect antidote to a North Sea breeze. The fish is caught locally and the portions are substantial. It gets very busy on cruise days, so arrive right at noon.
It avoids the hotel-restaurant formality of The Kirkwall Hotel in favor of a genuine pub atmosphere.
This is where to find the best Orkney crab. It's a quiet, cozy spot perfect for a light lunch. The scones are baked fresh every morning and are among the best in the islands. One honest limitation: it is small, so it's not suitable for large groups of more than four.
It is tucked away on a side street, meaning it is often half as crowded as the cafes on the main street.
Owned by the famous Wrigley sisters (local musicians), this is a cafe-bar and music school. There is often spontaneous traditional fiddle music in the afternoons. It's the best place in town to grab a local whisky and soak up the island culture without the 'tourist pub' artifice.
Musical, warm, and distinctly Orcadian.
Orcadians are famously friendly but reserved. A nod and a 'good morning' are standard when entering a shop. They do not appreciate 'gushing' or loud conversations in public spaces like the Cathedral. Dining customs follow standard UK norms; tipping is not mandatory but 10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants. Photography is welcome in St. Magnus Cathedral, but avoid using flash, and never photograph a service in progress. Queueing is a national sport in the UK; never 'cut' the line for the shuttle bus, as it is considered deeply offensive. A common cultural misunderstanding cruise passengers make here is referring to the islands as 'The Orkneys'—the correct term is simply 'Orkney' or 'The Orkney Islands.' Also, avoid calling them 'Scotch'—that refers to whisky. The people are Scottish, or more specifically, Orcadian. They are proud of their Norse roots and often feel a stronger connection to Norway than to London.
Cards are accepted almost everywhere in Kirkwall, including most taxis. However, the small bus to Skara Brae and the public restrooms (£0.50) require cash. Keep a few coins in your pocket. Tipping is not expected for taxis unless they provide a guided tour, in which case £5.00–£10.00 is generous. Learn these five words for goodwill: 'Cheers' (thanks), 'Bonny' (beautiful), 'Peedie' (small), 'Stoor' (dust/mess), and 'Fair t'o' (it's okay). Pickpockets are virtually non-existent here, but the main 'scam' is unlicensed drivers offering 'tours' at the pier—always use a badged taxi. Dress code for the Cathedral is casual, but keep shoulders covered as a mark of respect. The best time to visit St. Magnus is 9:00 AM; the ship tours usually arrive around 10:30 AM, creating a massive bottleneck in the narrow nave. If you see three buses parked outside, go to the Orkney Museum first and return 45 minutes later.
The 'all aboard' time is usually 30 minutes before the ship sails. We recommend being back at the Kirkwall Travel Centre at least 90 minutes before departure. The shuttle ride takes only 10 minutes, but the queue during the final hour can exceed 150 people, meaning you might wait for 3-4 buses. A taxi back to Hatston Pier costs about £10.00 (~$13.50 USD). If you miss the ship, the port authority number is +44 1856 873636. Be warned: if you miss the ship here, the next stop is often Lerwick (Shetland) or Invergordon, which requires a flight or a long ferry journey that departs only once a day. The ship will generally not wait for independent passengers, especially if tidal windows for the North Sea transit are tight.
Can I walk from the cruise ship to Kirkwall town center?
No. The Hatston Pier is 3.2 km (2 miles) from the center and pedestrian access through the industrial port gates is prohibited for safety reasons. You must use the shuttle bus or a pre-booked taxi. The journey takes 10 minutes and costs roughly £5.00 (~$6.50 USD) for a return shuttle ticket, though many premium lines provide this service for free. If your ship is small enough to dock at Kirkwall Pier (near the harbor), you are already in the town center. Always check your daily program to confirm which pier you are using before you leave the ship.
How do I get to Skara Brae without a ship excursion?
The most reliable independent way is the Stagecoach T11 bus, which departs from the Kirkwall Travel Centre. It is timed for cruise passengers and costs approximately £10.00 (~$13.50 USD) for a day pass. Alternatively, you must pre-book a private taxi 48 hours in advance, which will cost roughly £80.00–£100.00 (~$107.00–$134.00 USD) for a half-day tour. Do not rely on finding a taxi at the pier. WaterwaysCruise.com can also arrange private, guaranteed return-to-ship transport for our clients.
Is Highland Park Distillery within walking distance?
It is a 1.2 km (0.75 mile) walk from the St. Magnus Cathedral. However, the walk is entirely uphill. For most passengers, it takes about 15-20 minutes. If you have mobility issues, a taxi is recommended and costs about £6.00 (~$8.00 USD). Note that you must book tours weeks in advance, but the gift shop and tasting area are usually accessible to walk-ins. We have found that the walk back down to town is much easier and offers a great view of the Cathedral spire and the North Sea.
Are the shops in Kirkwall open on Sundays?
Yes, on days when a large cruise ship is in port, most major shops on Albert Street and Victoria Street open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. However, some smaller boutique shops and the Orkney Museum may have reduced hours or remain closed. St. Magnus Cathedral is open for visitors on Sundays only after the morning service, typically from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Always check the local 'Meet and Greet' desk at the pier for the specific Sunday opening times during your visit.
What is the best thing to buy in Orkney?
Jewelry and woolens are the top choices. Sheila Fleet and Ortak are the two most famous local jewelry brands, with silver pendants starting around £60.00 (~$80.00 USD). For woolens, Judith Glue offers authentic Fair Isle and Orkney knits. If you want something unique and small, look for 'bere' crackers—made from an ancient island grain. These are available in local grocery stores for under £4.00 (~$5.50 USD). Avoid generic 'Scottish' souvenirs; look for the 'Made in Orkney' label to ensure you are supporting local island craftsmen.
Is there a public bus to the Ring of Brodgar?
Yes, the T11 service and the X1 service both go near the 'Heart of Neolithic Orkney.' The T11 is the most convenient as it stops directly at the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae. A day pass is roughly £10.00 (~$13.50 USD). The journey from the Kirkwall Travel Centre takes approximately 25 minutes. Our destination partners advise that these buses can be very full on days with two ships in port, so arrive at the bus station 15 minutes before departure to secure a seat.
What should I do if it's raining in Kirkwall?
Kirkwall is well-equipped for rain. Spend your time in St. Magnus Cathedral (free) and the Orkney Museum (free), which are directly across from each other. Afterward, visit the Earl's and Bishop's Palaces—though roofless, they offer some shelter in the lower chambers. For a longer indoor experience, the Highland Park Distillery tour or a long lunch at Helgi's pub are excellent options. Avoid Skara Brae in heavy rain; it is entirely outdoors and the wind off the North Sea makes umbrellas useless. A good waterproof hooded jacket is essential for this port.
Can I see the Italian Chapel and Skara Brae in one day?
Yes, but only if you have a full 8-hour port call and a private car or taxi. They are in opposite directions—Skara Brae is 35 minutes west, and the Italian Chapel is 20 minutes south across the Churchill Barriers. Doing both by public bus is nearly impossible due to the transfer times at the Kirkwall Travel Centre. If you have only 5-6 hours, we recommend choosing one. Most travelers find the Neolithic sites (Skara Brae/Brodgar) more impactful than the South Isles sites.
Are there ATMs at the cruise terminal?
No, there are no ATMs at Hatston Pier. The nearest cash machines are in Kirkwall town center, primarily on Albert Street. Most businesses take credit cards, but you will need small change in GBP for the public restrooms (£0.50) and potentially for the local buses. If you need cash, we recommend using the RBS or Bank of Scotland ATMs in town rather than trying to find a currency exchange, as the rates in town are standard bank rates.
Is the Scapa Flow visible from Kirkwall?
Not directly from the town center. Scapa Flow is a large body of water to the south of Kirkwall. To see it properly, you must take a 10-minute drive south toward Holm or the Italian Chapel. However, from the upper decks of your ship at Hatston Pier, you can see the Bay of Kirkwall and the surrounding islands which are part of the same archipelago. For a dedicated view of the naval history, a tour of the Churchill Barriers is required.