Orkney Day Trip: Meets the Scrabster – Stromness Ferry

If you’re eager to see some of the most iconic sights of the Orkney Islands in a single day, this small-group tour from Stromness offers a practical and personable way to do it. Meeting the ferry from Scrabster, this 5.5-hour journey whisks you through ancient history, rugged landscapes, and charming towns—all led by local guides passionate about sharing their island home.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the intimate group size—limited to just 8 participants—which makes for a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of personal attention, and the chance for meaningful conversations with your guide. Plus, with a focus on key sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, you get a curated taste of Orkney’s highlights rather than just a sweeping overview.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include ferry fares or meals, so you’re responsible for those extras. Also, it’s not suitable for cruise ship guests or those with mobility issues, mainly because of the transport arrangements and the long drive from the cruise port. But for travelers who love history, stunning scenery, and small-group adventures, this tour is a fantastic pick.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 8 people) ensures a personalized experience.
• Expert guides provide engaging commentary at most sites, enriching your understanding.
• Major sights include Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Cliffs of Yesnaby.
• Ferry transfer from Scrabster is included in the timing but not the fare.
• Flexibility for free time in Kirkwall or optional visit to the Italian Chapel.
• Ideal for history lovers and those seeking authentic, intimate tours.

An In-Depth Look at the Orkney Day Trip

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins just outside the Stromness Ferry Terminal in the car park, where you’ll find your minibus with “Orkney Travel” boldly displayed. The small-group nature means you won’t be just one of dozens but part of an intimate crew eager to explore Orkney’s treasures. Your guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, will be with you throughout, providing commentary in English that is both informative and engaging.

The vehicle offers generous legroom, although seats are between 48cm and 51cm wide—so if you’re on the larger side or have specific comfort needs, consider purchasing an extra seat. The journey generally involves several stops, each carefully timed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

Itinerary Breakdown

Skara Brae & Skaill House (1.5 hours)

The trip’s highlight is almost certainly a visit to Skara Brae, Europe’s most complete Neolithic village. You’ll walk through remarkably well-preserved stone dwellings that date back over 5000 years. The site is accessible via a guided tour, which is invaluable for understanding the significance of these ancient homes. Adjacent to it is Skaill House, a lovely manor that offers additional context about the area’s history, with entry included in the tour fee.

Reviewers have raved about the guides’ ability to bring the site alive, with one noting that the “information kept on coming” and that the guide’s impressive knowledge made the experience even more memorable. The time allocated ensures you see the highlights without feeling hurried.

The Cliffs of Yesnaby (15 minutes)

Next, you’ll enjoy a photo stop at the Cliffs of Yesnaby, where the jagged rock formations and sweeping views over the ocean make for spectacular photo opportunities. The scenery here is rugged, wild, and quintessentially Orkney—perfect for nature lovers and landscape photographers alike.

The Ring of Brodgar & Standing Stones of Stenness (30 minutes + 15 minutes)

These two Neolithic sites are among Orkney’s most famous monuments. The Ring of Brodgar, a massive stone circle, is awe-inspiring, especially when you imagine how ancient peoples aligned these stones. Your guide, often praised for their storytelling skills, will help you appreciate the archaeological significance and the myths surrounding them.

Just a short walk away, the Standing Stones of Stenness provide another impressive stone circle, with enough time to snap photos and soak in the atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Chris, “put it over so well,” making the experience more meaningful.

Free Time in Kirkwall or Optional Visit to the Italian Chapel (at extra cost)

After touring the archaeological sites, you’ll have the choice to spend some time exploring Kirkwall, the main town, or opt for a visit to the Italian Chapel for an additional £20. The chapel, a poignant WWII site, is a favorite among history buffs and adds a different layer of cultural depth to your day.

Other Sites: Scapa Flow and Unstan Tomb

You’ll also pass by Scapa Flow, historically renowned as a major naval base, and visit the Unstan Tomb, a fascinating Neolithic burial site. These stops offer further insights into Orkney’s ancient and military history.

The Experience and Guides

Throughout the day, your guide will provide insightful commentary – often full of local knowledge that you won’t find in guidebooks. Reviewers have highlighted guides like Douugie and Garry for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and helpfulness. For example, one guest mentioned that Douugie was “excellent,” delivering stories about Orkney’s rise from the ocean and its fauna.

The small-group setup creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels encouraged to ask questions or clarify details. The tour also offers helpful tips for eating and sightseeing in Kirkwall, making your free time more enjoyable.

Practicalities and Value

Ferry fares are not included in the $160 price, so budget accordingly. The tour’s cost reflects the inclusion of site-entry fees (Skara Brae and Skaill House), guided explanations, and a highly personalized experience—making it a good value for history and nature enthusiasts. The 5.5-hour duration strikes a balance between seeing major sites and not feeling exhausted.

What to bring: Warm clothing, camera, water, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially given the outdoor stops and variable weather. The tour isn’t suitable for cruise ship guests or those with mobility issues, mainly due to the distance from the cruise port and the nature of the sites.

Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a difference. One reviewer appreciated how their guide, Rachel, “made the tour even more enjoyable” with her wealth of history and local stories. The small group size (8 max) ensures a more personalized experience, which many say adds to the enjoyment and learning.

The scenic stops at the cliffs and ancient sites, combined with the ease of small-group touring, make this a memorable and manageable way to experience Orkney’s key attractions in a single day.

Who will love this tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs, landscape lovers, and travelers who prefer a personalized, small-group experience. It’s especially suitable if you want a curated selection of Orkney’s most famous sites, with insightful guides bringing the stories to life. The tour’s pace and depth suit those who appreciate a balance of sightseeing and free time.

However, it’s less suitable for cruise ship guests or visitors with mobility challenges, given the distance from the cruise port and the site accessibility. Also, if you’re seeking a more relaxed or leisurely pace, the 5.5-hour schedule might be tight.

Final Thoughts

This Orkney day trip offers an engaging, well-organized way to explore some of the islands’ most iconic archaeological and scenic sites. With a focus on small-group intimacy and expert guiding, it delivers value and authenticity that larger tours often lack. The stops at Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Cliffs of Yesnaby combine to create a well-rounded snapshot of Orkney’s natural beauty and ancient past.

For those who love history, meaningful storytelling, and stunning scenery—all within a manageable day—this tour is a strong choice. The combination of expert guides, carefully curated sites, and the scenic landscapes of Orkney makes it an experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship guests?
No, it’s not suitable for cruise ship guests due to the 15-mile distance from the port to the starting point.

What is included in the tour price?
Entry fees to Skara Brae and Skaill House are included, along with site-guiding and commentary in the vehicle.

Are ferry fares included?
No, ferry fares are not included in the $160 price, so you’ll need to budget for this separately.

Can I visit the Italian Chapel?
Yes, for an additional fee of £20 per person, you can visit the Italian Chapel instead of spending time in Kirkwall.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 5.5 hours, with multiple stops for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

What season is best for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the weather in Orkney can be variable, so dressing warmly and preparing for outdoor conditions is advised year-round.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges, mainly because of the site layouts and vehicle arrangements.

This small-group Orkney tour balances history, scenery, and personal attention, making it a fantastic way to experience the islands’ highlights in a day. If you love stories told by passionate guides and want to see key sites without the hassle of planning every detail, this is a very solid choice.