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How to get fromHelmsdale to Orkney Islandsby bus, ferry, or train

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There are 2 ways to get from Helmsdale to Orkney Islands by bus, ferry, or train

Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner.

  1. Bus, ferry

    best
    1. Take the bus from Helmsdale to Scrabster Ferry Terminalbus bus Ember
    2. Take the ferry from Scrabster Ferry Terminal to Stromness Orkney Ferry Terminalferry ferry Nl1
    4h 49m
    £24–33

  2. Train, ferry

    1. Take the train from Helmsdale to Wicktrain train Inverness - Wick / ...
    2. Take the ferry from Gills Bay Ferry Terminal to St Margarets Hope Ferry Terminalferry ferry Pf1
    6h 34m
    £58–74

Comparing Your Travel Options

Map of how to get from Helmsdale to Orkney Islands.ExpandLaunch map view
  • Distance: 98.4 mi
  • Duration: 4h 49m

What companies run services between Helmsdale, Scotland and Orkney Islands, Scotland?

There is no direct connection from Helmsdale to Orkney Islands. However, you can take the bus to Scrabster Ferry Terminal, walk to Scrabster Ferry Terminal, take the ferry to Stromness Orkney Ferry Terminal, walk to Travel Centre, then take the bus to Quanterness Cottages. Alternatively, you can take a train from Helmsdale to Hornesquoy Road via Wick, Bus Terminal, Ferry Terminal, Gills Bay Ferry Terminal, St Margarets Hope Ferry Terminal, and Ferry terminal in around 6h 34m.

Train operators
Bus operators
Ferry operators

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