Kirkwall Cruises
The capital of Orkney, an archipelago of around 70 islands, Kirkwall is an intriguing mix of Christian, Nordic and Celtic influence, and the ideal starting place for exploring Orkney’s fascinating historical sites. From the village of Skara Brae, dating back as far as 3100 BC, to the imposing Ring of Brodgar, Orkney’s history is varied and intriguing, mapping out centuries of conflict and settlement, from the Stone Age to World War II.
Top Experiences
Neolithic Orkney
The group of Neolithic monuments on Orkney consists of a large chambered tomb (Maes Howe), two ceremonial stone circles (the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar), and a settlement (Skara Brae), together with a number of excavated burial, ceremonial and settlement sites.
Skara Brae, on the shores of the bay of Skaill, is reputed to be the best-preserved Stone Age village in Europe. Skara Brae is accorded the same status as the pyramids in Egypt, however, the village is in fact much older, dating from 3200BC compared to 2700BC when the building of the pyramids began.
The spellbinding Ring of Brodgar arguably the most iconic symbol of Orkney's prehistoric past. It is a site of ritual and ceremony, an archaeological treasure and without doubt, one of the islands' most visited attractions.
Cruises to Kirkwall
Scenic Isles of Scotland • T2215
- Scenic cruise by Fingal’s Cave & Dutchman’s Cap
- Visit remote islands of Bute, Orkney & Shetland
- Learn about marine life from ORCA conservationists
Scenic Isles and Lochs of Scotland • T2219
- Scenic cruise the picturesque Sound of Mull
- Explore the remote Orkney & Shetland Islands
- Look for native marine life with ORCA
Scenic Isles of Scotland • L2310
- See the remarkable rock formations of Dutchman’s Cap and Fingal’s Cave
- Capture the coastal scenes of Northmavine, Shetland's northernmost point
- Perhaps visit the famous site of Loch Ness from Invergordon
Scenic Isles and Lochs of Scotland • T2313
- Marvel at the natural wonder of the imposing Needle, Old Man of Hoy and Duncansby sea stacks
- Visit Lews Castle from Stornoway
- Look for native seabirds on the cliffs of Marwick Head
Scenic British Isles • T2217A
- Discover the beauty, history and wildlife of rugged and remote Scottish isles
- Look out for native seabirds in Shetland, Orkney and on the Isle of Skye, and marine life with ORCA
- Experience memorable scenic cruising, and visit Belfast, Cobh and the Isle of Man too
UK Scenic Isles & Celtic Cities • L2226A
- Visit remote islands of Scilly, Shetland & Orkney
- Explore beautiful Cornwall from Falmouth
- Look out for native marine life with the help of ORCA
Scenic Isles of Scotland • L2314
- Experience the beauty of Scottish isles and waterways to the full
- See dramatic rock formations, rugged island landscapes and native wildlife
- Ashore, explore seabird havens, craggy coastlines and discover historic sites too
Exploring Northern Norway - the Land of the Midnight Sun • S2312
- Experience an unforgettable discovery of Northern Norway
- Cross the Arctic Circle, visit the North Cape and witness the Midnight Sun
- Explore Tromsø; learn of Sami traditions; and see the beauty of Bodo too
Scenic Summertime Norwegian Fjords • S2313
- Fully appreciate their spectacular beauty of the fjordland in the summer
- As you sail Lysefjord, Naeroyfjord and more, see towering mountains, cliffs and verdant, forested valleys
- Ride the famous Flåmsbana Railway into mountainous valleys, go fjord kayaking and see tumbling waterfalls up-close
Isles of Scotland & the Faroes • T2321
- Delight in the beauty, history and culture of Scottish isles and the Faroes
- See the landscapes and wonders of Shetland and Orkney
- Visit Tórshavn, with its Viking heritage, diverse architecture and unique local life
