About Shetland

People have found living space in Shetland for over 5000 years. The earliest settlers arrived during Neolithic times and constructed oval, stone walled homes and left many tools and utensils which can still be seen, studied and explored today.

Settlers during the Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as the Picts (and allegedly the Romans) have all influenced the beautiful Shetland Islands, but none more so than the Vikings, who came to settle peacefully and raise their families in the abundant space.

At Jarlshof you can wander amongst the stone dwellings which were to be their homes for some 200 years. The Vikings, dating back to around 800 AD, are recent history in Shetland. The Romans knew of the one hundred islands making up the Shetland Islands as 'Ultima Thule', as they sailed North - nowadays, modern, comfortable, stabilised ships take you there in style and the view form the sea of Shetland's rugged coastline makes for the best possible start to your Island adventure.

Visit Jarlshof, where seven distinct civilisations can be traced amongst its ancient dwellings; Mousa Broch, Britain's best preserved Iron Age fort; Scalloway Castle, built by the cruel Earl Patrick Stewart; or explore the stunning cliff scenery, considered to be the most beautiful and dramatic in Britain.

Wildlife abounds! - Shetland is home to Europe's largest colony of otters, tiny ponies roam free and there are also fabulous seal and seabird colonies to be studied. The angler too will enthuse over the rich loch and sea fishing available.

This year experience the warmth of a Shetland welcome as so many have done before you.

Information

Check-in Times
Foot Passengers:
At least 30 minutes prior to sailing
Vehicles:
At least 1 hour prior to sailing

Travel Documents
Please ensure that you are in possession of a valid travel ticket before proceeding towards the vessel - available from the Terminal Buildings

Boarding Cards
Please ensure that you exchange your travel ticket for a boarding card prior to joining the vessel - available at the check-in kiosks/desks.

Passage Times (approximate)
Aberdeen-Lerwick:
14 hours
Lerwick-Stromness:
8 hours

Tourist Information
Further information regarding the area you intend to visit, along with an Accommodation Guide can be obtained by contacting one of the following Area Tourist Boards;

Orkney
Orkney Tourist Board,
Dept. OSS,
10 Broad Street,
Kirkwall,
Orkney KW15 1NX.
Tel: (01856) 872856

Shetland
Shetland Islands Tourism, Dept. OSS,
10 Market Cross,
Lerwick,
Shetland ZE1 0LU.
Tel: (01595) 693434

Aberdeen
Aberdeen Tourist Board,
Dept. OSS,
St. Nicholas House,
Aberdeen AB10 1DE.
Tel: (01224) 632727

Scrabster, Caithness
Caithness Tourist Organisation,
Dept. OSS,
Whitechapel Road,
Wick,
Caithness, KW1 4EA.
Tel: (01955) 602596.