Scrabster Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Scrabster is easily accessible by road, with the A9 connecting it to Inverness (about 2.5 hours drive south) and the rest of Scotland. The nearby town of Thurso, just a mile away, offers rail connections with daily services from Inverness (approximately 3.5 hours). Local buses run regularly between Thurso railway station and Scrabster ferry terminal, taking around 10 minutes. If driving, ample parking is available at the ferry terminal, though reservation is recommended during peak summer months. Taxis are readily available from Thurso for those preferring door-to-door service to the ferry.

Nestled on the rugged northern coast of Scotland, Scrabster serves as a vital maritime gateway to the Orkney Islands and beyond. This bustling harbor town combines authentic Scottish charm with the raw beauty of Caithness coastline. As waves crash against the harbor walls, visitors feel the immediate connection to the sea that has shaped Scrabster's identity for centuries.

Scrabster experiences a maritime climate, with milder temperatures than expected for its northerly location. Summer months (June to August) offer the most pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10-18°C and extended daylight hours, perfect for exploring the coastline and catching ferries. May and September provide excellent alternatives with fewer tourists but still relatively stable weather. Winter visits (November to March) showcase the dramatic power of the North Sea, though some ferry services may operate on reduced schedules. The Summer Solstice in June presents a unique opportunity to experience nearly 24 hours of daylight in this northern outpost.

Scrabster serves as the primary mainland gateway to Orkney, with regular ferry services to Stromness taking approximately 90 minutes across the Pentland Firth. From Orkney, connections to the Shetland Islands are available, opening up Scotland's most northerly archipelago. The scenic ferry journey itself is a highlight, offering chances to spot marine wildlife including dolphins, whales, and numerous seabirds. For those seeking day trips, the Orkney mainland provides ancient archaeological sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, all accessible within a day's journey from Scrabster.

While waiting for your ferry, explore the magnificent cliffs at Holborn Head with breathtaking views across the Pentland Firth to Orkney. History enthusiasts should visit nearby Thurso's Caithness Horizons museum to discover the area's rich Viking and Pictish heritage. Seafood lovers can sample the freshest catch at local establishments like The Captain's Galley, where the day's landing becomes the evening's delicacy. The harbor area itself offers fascinating glimpses into working maritime life, with fishing vessels and cargo ships creating a constantly changing seascape. Don't miss a walk along Thurso Beach, where brave surfers tackle the powerful North Sea waves year-round.

Scrabster Harbor has been in operation since the 16th century, making it one of Scotland's oldest continuously used ports. The Pentland Firth, which ferries cross to reach Orkney, contains some of the strongest tidal currents in Europe, reaching speeds of up to 11 knots. Local legend claims that on clear days, sailors departing Scrabster can see the green flash, an optical phenomenon that occurs just as the sun dips below the horizon. Scrabster's name derives from Old Norse, reflecting the area's strong Viking influence that continues to shape local culture.