orkney tours from thurso

John O’Groats Ferry

Gateway to the orkney islands.

John O’Groats is the gateway to the Orkney Islands. With a crossing that’s only 40 minutes, you’ll soon be enjoying these spectacular  islands – voted the second best islands in the UK by TripAdvisor, 2014.

Or try a day tour, and see a wealth of wildlife – from seabirds to marine mammals.

For more information, visit John O’Groats Ferries or use the links below.

Step on board and explore more details at the John O'Groats Ferries Facebook

Wildlife Cruises

Orkney day tours.

Top Tours in Orkney Islands, Scotland

Orkney islands tours.

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1. Half-Day Trip in Orkney

2. From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour

3. Orkney West Mainland Tour

4. Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall

5. Private Tour Discover Orkney with Pick-Up

6. Historic Orkney 4 Hour tour by a Local

7. Orkney Islands & Highlands from Inverness - 3 Day Tour from Inverness

8. Orkney Travel Classic Tour - 5-6 hours

9. Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney

10. Kirkwall Private Walking Tour

11. Orkney Mainland Private Tour

12. Treasures of Orkney: Private Half-Day Tour from Kirkwall

13. 3-Day Orkney Explorer Small-Group Tour from Inverness

14. Godfather Tour

15. 3-Day Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness

16. 3 Day Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness

17. Orkney's Echoes Ancient Secrets and Rugged Beauty

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Orkney Island & Castle Of Mey Spectacular

• Duration: 4 days
• Board Basis: Half Board
• Tour Ref: D2TCAL10757

Holiday Summary

• Travel Type: Coach

4 Days Away

Four days away taking in the spectacular beauty of Orkney Island along with the wonderful Castle of Mey, John O’Groats and the outstanding Caithness Coast

PLEASE NOTE: Price is per person and based on two people sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements and upgrades are not included.

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• Adult Tickets 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
• Child Tickets 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

What's Included?

• Coach travel with reserved seating
• Three nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Pentland Hotel, Thurso
• Included ferry crossing to Orkney Island with inclusive tour taking in the highlights of the Island
• Excursion visiting John O’Groats along with included admission to the famous Castle of Mey

UK Holiday Insurance

Holiday Insurance Tailored to You! 

At Caledonian Travel, we always do everything we can to ensure your holiday runs as smoothly as possible from start to finish. Travel insurance is a vital aspect to booking a holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday.  

To provide you with a holiday insurance policy designed with our customers in mind, we’ve teamed up with specialist insurance providers Towergate Travel. Some of the benefits of our insurance policy include: 

• Covid-19 cancellation if diagnosed within 14-days of departure included * 
• Emergency medical expenses on breaks outside the UK included * 
• All ages are considered, plus there are no premium loadings if you are over 65 
• 24-hour English speaking emergency assistance 
• Low or no excess charges
• Cover from only £9.95 including IPT! 

Read more...

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Orkney Islands Tours & Trips

Located just above Scotland 's mainland, the Orkney Islands are a feast for the eye and offer a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Apart from seal colonies and tall cliffs, scattered all over the islands, one can see plenty of sites dating back to the Neolithic era. Kirkwall is the capital city of the archipelago and also the largest settlement.

43 Orkney Islands tour packages with 945 reviews

In-depth Cultural Family Coach / Bus +1

3-Day Orkney Explorer Small-Group Small-Group Tour from Inverness

"Had quite a bit of fun and the relaxed atmosphere provided a chance for the tour group to get to know one another." Shaun, traveled in April 2024

Country Roads of Scotland (Classic, 9 Days)

"The people we were in contact with were very professional and able to help us thru the process of booking our trip." Ronald, traveled in August 2022

Explorer Family Historical

5-Day Orkney & Scotland's Northern Coast Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

"We were lucky to have such a well researched and passionately enthusiastic tour." Ken, traveled in October 2023

In-depth Cultural Family

Orkney & The Far North

"The tour was incredible. Left the tour teary as hated to leave all my new friends." Marilyn, traveled in September 2023

• 10% deposit on some dates

Explorer Historical

Scotland's Orkney Islands

"Either make the tour two full days or two full days with one full day free to make plans to go to Hoy or Rousay." Kim, traveled in September 2023

North Scotland, Loch Ness & Orkney - 5 days

"The tour was a great experience, with beautiful scenery and comfortable accommodations." Angela, traveled in March 2024

In-depth Cultural Family Historical +1

Country Roads of Scotland (Small Groups, 9 Days)

North Scotland, Loch Ness & Orkney (Hotel) - 5 days

Explorer Family

Highland Trail inspired by Outlander (13 Days)

"We got to see some very special sites not listed in the itinerary for the Outlander tour." Rosemary, traveled in May 2019

• €100 deposit on some dates

In-depth Cultural Active Family Explorer Sightseeing Historical +4

Scotland's Highlands Islands and Cities (13 Days)

Scottish Highlands & Islands

"The tour occasionally strenuous; bus rides whole day. Bus quite confortable; Wi-Fi appreciated." Edith, traveled in May 2017

In-depth Cultural Family Coach / Bus Sightseeing Historical +3

Scottish Highland Fling

"This was my first group tour like this. Both the tour director, Peter, and the driver, Vincent, were awesome!" Renee, traveled in July 2022

Scotland's North Coast & Islands

Scenic Scotia

In-depth Cultural

Scotland's Highlands & Orkney

What people love about orkney islands tours.

An amazing trip. The Orkney islands are magical, the history and landscape is amazing. Will definitely be back. Helen, our tour guide is so knowledgeable, warm, funny and absolutely made the trip exceptional. She is one of the best tour guide, if not the best we have ever had. Thank you, Helen, you went above and beyond. Kimberley and Gerry

We had a fantastic and thorough tour experience of Country Roads of Scotland with our Tour Director Greg Colgin. He gave us a holiday to always look back on with very fond memories. In nine days on the road we saw more and did more than expected. The Optional Experiences amped up the energy required but thank good goodness we bought in. Greg has a strong knowledge of Scotland's history, other points of interest and proudly talked about the stunning countryside. We appreciated hearing about Scotland's music artists and movie and book titles we might find later. Greg has a nice manner, is very energized and engages easily with others. Les our coach driver was very responsible behind the wheel and the coach vehicle was extremely comfortable. Would do it again!

Had an amazing time. Shout out to our driver Gail for her knowledge of Scottish history and her contagious love for the country. She went above and beyond for our small group.

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• Guided tour at the Ness of Brodgar, Orkney

Guided Tours

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Orkney might be a relatively small place but there is still so much to see. For the first-time visitor, planning your itinerary can be a bit daunting.

Luckily, we have some of the finest tour guides to be found anywhere. Friendly and knowledgeable, they’ll take good care of you during your time touring our sites and make sure your visit is unforgettable.

Many are also proficient in different languages and lots are highly experienced experts in their fields, whether that’s archaeology , wildlife or wartime history .

A number of sites and attractions have set tour times that you can join, or you can speak to one of Orkney’s private guides to tailor a trip that’s perfect for you. If you decide to travel with a guide, you’ll be able to plan your schedule in advance and get all the hints and tips you need prior to setting off.

They’ll get you around our unmissable sights safely, you’ll learn a huge amount along the way, and you’ll get a real insight into Orkney life too.

Browse our listings below for more info:

Scheduled tours.

Browse a selection of scheduled tours that take place on a set day or time, such as distillery tours, walking tours at Brodgar and cathedral tours.

Our range of guided tour providers can arrange tours for small or larger groups based on your specific interests and requirements.

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Orkney Tours

Tailor-made orkney tours, your orkney, your way.

Experience and savour the magic of Orkney with our tailor-made tours. Whether it’s for one day or a whole week, we can create the perfect tour for you and bring to life Orkney’s Viking settlements, Neolithic sites, wartime history and stunning scenery.

A lifetime of memories

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Orkney’s Ancient Echoes:

The neolithic tour.

Journey back in time and immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Orkney. Our Neolithic Tour offers a curated experience, unveiling the mysteries and stories of a bygone era. As you traverse the iconic landscapes, you’ll encounter remnants of a civilization that once thrived on these shores, leaving behind awe-inspiring structures that stand as a testament to their ingenuity and spirit.

Orkney’s Norse Legacy: The Viking Tour

Step into the world of the Norsemen and uncover the Viking heritage that has left an indelible mark on Orkney’s cultural and historical landscape. Our Viking Tour offers a captivating journey through time, retracing the steps of the seafaring warriors and settlers who once called these islands home. As you explore, you’ll encounter tales of conquest, settlement, and integration, revealing how the Vikings have shaped Orkney’s identity.

Orkney’s Echoes of War: The Wartime Tour

Orkney, with its strategic location, has been a silent witness to many pivotal moments in wartime history. Our Wartime Tour offers a poignant journey through these echoes of the past, revealing the stories, sacrifices, and resilience of the people who lived through these turbulent times. As you traverse the islands, you’ll encounter remnants of wartime Orkney, from the Churchill Barriers to the touching Italian Chapel, each site a testament to human spirit and ingenuity.

Orkney’s Coastal Chronicles: The Cruise Day Tour

Orkney, a tapestry of history and natural beauty, beckons travellers from all corners of the world. For those arriving on the shores of Orkney via cruise, our Cruise Day Tour promises a whirlwind journey through time and landscape. With the limited hours a cruise stopover provides, we’ve meticulously crafted a tour that encapsulates the essence of Orkney, ensuring you leave with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Orkney’s Culinary Journey: Food & Drink Tours

Orkney’s green revolution: renewable energy tour.

Dive deep into Orkney’s commitment to a sustainable future with our bespoke Renewable Energy Tour. This curated journey, spanning either a day or an entire week, offers an insightful exploration of the island’s significant renewable energy landmarks. Travel in style and with a clear conscience in our all-electric, eco-friendly Mercedes Evito.

We’re accredited by the Scottish Tourist Guides Association, so you’re in for an enlightening experience that showcases Orkney’s pioneering efforts in the realm of renewable energy.

More about our tours

Our luxury Mercedes tour vehicle seats eight passengers. It is fully electric, so not only is it comfortable, it is quiet and environmentally friendly. It is fully licensed, has lots of luggage space and phone charging facilities.

As all our tours are tailor made, prices are on request. All prices are for the vehicle and guide, and include pick-ups and drop-offs for up to eight passengers. Lunches and entrance fees are extra. We use online payment methods and can accept payment from any credit card, PayPal, bank transfer and payment by phone.

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Dodds Coach Holidays is a division of Dodds of Troon, we offer an extensive range of holidays to destinations throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

All hotels are carefully selected for the standard of service and food provided, many offering entertainment. Travel itineraries are carefully designed to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. With the convenience of joining points within Northern Ireland, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway, Dodds Coach Holidays offer an excellent choice of value for money holidays.

Our Dodds family business is committed to providing a professional and friendly service, from your first point of contact to your safe return home, making us the perfect choice for your next break away.

View our holidays below or click here to download a copy of our latest booklet.

We have 49 Tours between 12 June 2024 and 31 December 2024

Treasures of North Wales and Llandudno

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Westport - The Wild Atlantic Way

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Harrogate and the Dales

N Ireland from £549 | Scotland from £519

Skegness and Sandringham

N Ireland from £599 | Scotland from £569

Splendid Lakes

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Isle of Man

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Discover Durham

N Ireland from £579 | Scotland from £549

Majestic Cairngorms and Royal Deeside

N Ireland from £569 | Scotland from £539

Newcastle and Alnwick

N Ireland from £539 | Scotland from £509

Western Highlands and Skye

N Ireland from £659 | Scotland from £629

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Peak District

Westport - The Wild Atlantic Coast

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Blackpool Illuminations

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Historic Waterford

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Oban and the islands of Mull and Iona

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Kildare and Irish National Stud

Dunoon and the Isle of Bute

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Harrogate Knitting & Stitching Show (Cairn)

N Ireland from £419 | Scotland from £389

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Christmas in Perth

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Day Tours from Thurso - Orkney Islands Forum

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I will be part of a group of 10 travelling through Scotland in May, 2017. We will be staying 2 nights in Thurso and wondering which Orkney Day Tour to choose. There is one leaving from Scrabster, (Wildabout Orkney), and one leaving from John O Groats. The one leaving from Scrabster is considerably more expensive, but is much closer to Thurso. Would appreciate advice.

They are both much and such the same. They will take in the same sights the island has to offer. The crossing from John O Groats is on a much smaller passanger only boat, but is also quicker. The outing from Scrabster will take you over on the Hamnavoe. Regardless you will be picked up by coach on the other side.

Can I ask why Orkney? Do you have plans to explore the Thurso area more?

Is there any particular reason you are staying 2 nights in Thurso? Why not stay in Scrabster or John O'Groats. Also, when we were there in May most of the people we spoke to had done the tour from John O and all said it was a great day out. Cheers

Personally I'd head for the boat less likely to be cancelled due to bumpy seas. Thurso makes a handy touring base for a couple of nights and Orkney is stunning!

Totally agree with 'Purple C' - Orkney is stunning and deserves more than one day. We had 5 days and that still wasn't enough

If it works out with your large group to have more time in Orkney there is a whole lot to see there. I'd think more than there is in Thurso, but I didn't get over that way. We did two nights in Kirkwall and could have done more.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Orkney Day Trips

Orkney islands day tour.

Please note that Together Travel does not operate the Orkney Tours. To book the tour please visit the official John O'Groats Ferries website. For more information on these trips, we've created a handy guide to the  John O'Groats ferries here .

Enjoy a full day tour of Orkney Islands from John O'Groats, every Day 1 May to 30 September (can vary), departs 8.45 am & returns 7 pm (June - August) and 5.30 pm (July & September). Please check with the John O'Groats Ferries to confirm dates and times. 

The ferries depart from the harbour next to what was once the John O'Groats hotel . This fantastic full day tour will allow you to explore the fantastic highlights of Orkney. Visit Skara Brae (stoneage village), Scapa Flow, Stromness, Kirkwall, Churchill Barriers, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness and the Italian Chapel. The ferry crossing from John O’Groats is just 40 minutes across the famous Pentland Firth, where you will have the opportunity to spot the spectacular marine wildlife such as seals, whales and sea birds. Upon arrival, your coach will be waiting at Burwick ready to drive you across the Churchill Barriers and along the northern coast of Scapa Flow. You’ll have time to explore Stromness, one of Britain’s most picturesque towns. Wander the winding main street, visit the museum and The Pier Arts Centre.

Then it’s onto the Neolithic village of Skara Brae*, discovered just 100 years ago having been buried under sand dunes, perfectly preserved, for thousands of years. Our route then takes us onto a narrow tongue of land between the lochs of Harray and Stenness with a photo stop at the mystical Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness.

You’ll then enjoy a 2 hour stop at Kirkwall, the capital city of Orkney. See the St Magnus Cathedral and the Tankerness House Museum & Gardens. Browse the unique stores and look out for woollens, jewellery, fudges, cheeses and Bere Bannocks. On return to Burwick you’ll stop at the beautifully decorated Italian Chapel.

Available at:

• John O'Groats

Scotland Tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London

Book assured book, change or cancel this tour with peace of mind., for full details click here.

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• Orkney Discovery...

• Ring of Brodgar
• St Magnus Cathedral

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Orkney Discovery - 3 day tour

Orkney Discovery 3 day / 2 night tour

The captivating Orkney Islands boast ancient treasures and a colourful Viking legacy. On this tour, you will have the chance to visit two of the most famous prehistoric sites - the stone-age village of Skara Brae and the burial chamber of Maeshowe. Learn the naval history of Scapa Flow and see the intricate workmanship of the Italian Chapel. There is so much to discover on this memorable 3-day tour.

Northern Highlands - see the rolling countryside, stunning seascapes and historic fishing villages which hug the coast as we head for the Far North

Italian Chapel - visit this moving legacy from World War II

Skara Brae - step back 5,000 years to explore this prehistoric village  

Kirkwall - enjoy a two-night stay in the bustling capital of the Orkney Islands

Ring of Brodgar - explore the magical stones that make up this impressive circle

Movie locations - Venus Peter, The Silver Darlings and Winter Solstice

Guest house accommodation included

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Full Tour Itinerary

Select Day:

Day 1 - Inverness - Scapa Flow - Kirkwall (Orkney Islands)

We bid farewell to Inverness and make our way northwards through the Black Isle then over the Cromarty and Dornoch Firths.

Look out for the resident seals when we reach Loch Fleet Nature Reserve .

We continue our drive along the northeast Highland coastline, travelling into some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery. This attractive route is known as the North Coast 500 and contains some of Europe's oldest landscapes.

At Gills Bay, we board the ferry for the short crossing of the Pentland Firth to the historic Orkney islands .

On our arrival, it is a short drive to the famous Italian Chapel , where few will fail to be moved by the dedicated workmanship of the Italian prisoners of war who crafted this place of worship from a humble Nissen hut.

Their story and many others will be told as we view Scapa Flow, the scene of momentous events during both World Wars.

The Viking stronghold of Kirkwall is our home for the next 2 nights.

Overnight: Kirkwall (2 nights)

Day 2 - Exploring the Orkney Islands

Orkney is home to many outstanding historical treasures, including a group of Neolithic monuments that are of such importance that they have been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List .

Our itinerary starts with a visit to Maeshowe , a magnificent tomb built almost 5,000 years ago. Using massive stones, its construction was indeed a feat of engineering. During your tour, look out for the Viking graffiti, which daters from the 12 th Century.

The Ring of Brodgar is a stone circle that once comprised of 60 megaliths. Today with 27 stones still standing, some over 5 metres tall, it takes little imagination to visualise the extent of this historic monument.

Uncovered by a storm in 1850, Skara Brae is one of the best-preserved groups of Stone Age houses in Western Europe. On our visit, see the stone furniture, hearths and drains that present such a remarkable insight into Neolithic life.

The day will finish with a visit to the impressive St Magnus Cathedral , one of Europe’s outstanding architectural achievements and over 800 years old.

Day 3 - Kirkwall - Helmsdale - Inverness

This morning, we have a relaxed start with free time to shop for a last-minute souvenir before heading for the ferry.

It's a 60-minute crossing of the Pentland Firth, and during the journey, we may well pass whirlpools and eddies, depending on the tides and winds. One such whirlpool just north of Stroma is the Swelkie which, according to Viking legend, is caused by a sea witch turning the mill wheels to grind the salt to keep the sea salty.

On our arrival on the mainland, we travel through the fishing villages that hug this storm-swept coastline. These attractive communities are a reminder of the importance of the Herring fishing industry during the 19th Century.

As we travel through Helmsdale , which sits at the mouth of the River Helmsdale, one of the best Salmon fishing rivers in Scotland, you'll hear some of the heart-breaking stories that are connected with the Highland Clearances .

On the outskirts of Golspie, we will stop at magnificent Dunrobin Castle , the home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland.

You'll have the chance to visit the castle to see some of the 189 rooms which house a collection of paintings, silver and furniture. There will also be the opportunity to take a walk in the formal gardens, the venue for the popular falconry display. 

From Golspie, we cross the Dornoch, Cromarty and Moray firths once more and make our way back to Inverness, where our tour ends. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i expect on this signature multi-day tour.

For the discerning traveller a Signature Multi-day Tour offers amazing value for money, comfortable accommodation, well-paced sightseeing and luxury travel.

All of this combines to create the definitive Scottish experience.

Each tour is hosted by a professional driver/guide, who has been chosen for their extensive knowledge as well as their driving skills. And being locals you are sure to get that extra insight too.

If you should have any problems during your stay, they’ll go out of their way to help.

You will want to see as much as possible, but you don’t want to be rushed. Our tours are carefully planned to strike the right balance, and as well as comfortable mini/midicoach travel many feature memorable railway or ferry journeys.

Having somewhere pleasant to stay after an exciting day of discovery is an important part of your holiday experience. Comfortable guest house accommodation with en-suite bathrooms, tv and other amenities is included in the price of all tours.

On many tours you can choose to upgrade to hotel accommodation, at extra cost, if you wish.

A tasty Scottish breakfast is included each morning of your stay. 

What options are available on this tour and what is the cost?

To give you complete choice admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been carefully designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:

Italian Chapel Maeshowe Skara Brae Dunrobin Castle

If you click on the links above they will provide you with more information on each attraction including current admission prices. In some cases a special discount is offered to tour passengers, your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.

Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash with you should you want to make a visit.

Can I reserve specific seats on the coach?

Seating on this tour is on a first come, first served basis and cannot be pre-booked.

If you are travelling as part of a group please make sure that all members of the party arrive at the departure point together.

What meals are included ?

A full Scottish breakfast is included from day 2 onwards.

This hearty meal can consist of fruit juice; a choice of cereal; bakery basket; cooked items such as eggs, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, tomato and, maybe, a taste of haggis! plus tea or coffee. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available.

Lunch and dinner are not included in the price.

During the touring day there will be a stop where you can enjoy lunch in a local pub or restaurant. Your driver/guide will be happy to suggest a conveniently located restaurant where you can enjoy good food for dinner. 

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Accommodation

• 2 nights guest house or hotel accommodation
• Location: Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (2) 
• Scottish/Continental breakfast (2)

Tour Essentials

• Transportation by luxury air-conditioned mini/midicoach
• Ferry to the Orkney Islands
• Live commentary in English
• Services of an experienced driver/guide
• Service charges and taxes
• Admission charges
• Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
• Gratuity to your driver/guide

Departure information

25 Union Street Inverness IV1 1LT

Check-in: 07:45 hrs Tour Departs: 08:00 hrs Tour Returns: 18:30 hrs

Child details

Concession discount applies to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 3 to 15 years inclusive.

We’re really sorry but children aged under 3 years cannot travel on this tour.

Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.  

Price Notes

Book Assured Book by paying a 20% deposit. Make date changes or get a full refund with 8 days notice before travel. Click here for more information .

Accommodation The price of this tour includes guest house accommodation with an en-suite bathroom. 

Luggage Allowance One medium-sized suitcase/bag per person (maximum weight: 15 kilos)

Admission Prices In order to give you maximum flexibility admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. 

FAQs Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.

Product code   HEX 00770

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Customer Reviews Overall Rating:

We packed a lot into a few days. Some I could have skipped, but I understand that not everyone on a tour has the same enthusiasms. Our driver and guide was seemingly inexhaustible and very good natured. It was a terrific way to see the Orkneys. So glad I went with the tour rather than driving myself. I would highly recommend it.

Cameron was unfailingly cheerful and patient, as well as informative. I enjoyed the tour very much. Another time I would choose accommodation that included a restaurant, or was closer to town. At the end of a very long day with lots of walking, and in the rain, didn't enjoy having to walk ten or fifteen minutes to find a restaurant.

We really enjoyed the tour. The weather was great - what we expected for the time of the year- misty! The tour guides were great and knew their stuff, and were great company. They went out of their way to show us a couple of things that weren't on the itinerary. Enjoyable and great value for money.

6 day tour from £ 1495.00

3 day tour from £ 510.00