DISCOVER THE FREEDOM OF ORKNEY WITH PENTLAND FERRIES
Whether you’re staying for a week, or looking to visit for a day trip, there’s plenty to see, do, eat and drink in Orkney. Our crossing takes just over an hour from Gills Bay in the north of Scotland to St Margaret’s Hope on the island of South Ronaldsay. From there you can drive across the iconic Churchill Barriers, past the famous Italian Chapel and on to mainland Orkney – then onwards to explore everything the archipelago has to offer.
Whether you want to spend time: wildlife watching – walking – beach combing – relaxing – exploring archaeology – discovering history – bird watching – browsing craft makers or visiting historical sites. Orkney has it all.
Our FAQs
Whether you’re interested in bird watching, historical sites, beach combing, walking or crafts there’s plenty to do in Orkney.
We sail from Gills Bay in the north of Scotland to St Margaret’s Hope in South Ronaldsay. From there you can drive across the iconic Churchill Barriers, past the famous Italian Chapel and on to mainland Orkney
We sail every day from St Margaret’s Hope (Orkney) at 07:45, 11:30 and 17:00 and from Gills Bay (mainland Scotland) at 09:30, 13:30 and 18:45.
The low fuel consumption and efficient operation keeps our running costs down and that is reflected in our fares. We want to make travel as accessible as possible for both islanders and visitors.
There is a dog-friendly indoor sun deck lounge on MV Alfred. On MV Pentalina there is an inside dog-friendly area. Alternatively, you may wish to sit outside, or dogs can be left inside vehicles on the car deck.
Please contact us by phone or email to cancel your booking. To grant a full refund, cancellation requests must be made before 4pm the day prior to travel. Refunds can be given in the form of vouchers or a refund to the card used to purchase the tickets. Refunds due to sailings that are cancelled by Pentland Ferries will be negotiated with customers at time of cancellation. We aim to process refunds within 7 working days.
This efficient service is on board one of our purpose-built car and passenger ferries, MV Alfred or MV Pentalina. The accommodation includes spacious seating areas and a café.
Our customers in 2024 said:
On all occasions, it has been a quick and pleasant crossing with great views… it’s a great, regular service, all year round, with pleasant and helpful staff.
Tripadvisor October 2024
Ferry was smooth sailing and plenty of seats inside and out. Highly recommended.
Tripadvisor June 2024
The booking is easy, the price is very reasonable; the staff at the ferry points and on board are pleasant, friendly and efficient.
Tripadvisor August 2024
