Internal and external Orkney ferry fares frozen til spring 2024

Orkney Ferries fares are to remain unchanged til the spring of 2024 – with the exception of the multi journey books of tickets.

The status quo is in line with the Scottish Government’s freeze on external ferry fares to the Northern Isles announced on Wednesday 28 June, by the Transport Minister, Fiona Hyslop.

The freeze will affect all Orkney Ferries fares with the exception of the 50 x books of tickets which will increase by 5%, as previously agreed by Councillors.

The Council’s Transportation Service Manager, Laura Cromarty, explained: “Elected members agreed that we would align the Orkney Ferries fares with the Scottish Government subsidised ferry services.  This is because Orkney Ferries is now fully revenue funded by the Scottish Government, so it makes sense to be consistent with any fare increases.

“However, the 50 x multi journey books of tickets do not form part of the new fare structure and so will see a previously agreed increase of 5%. Options continue to be looked at in relation to the replacement of the multi journey books of tickets to ensure a fair system for all.”

The Council was awarded additional funding by the Scottish Government in June 2021 to reduce the base rate of passenger and vehicle fares (under 5.5m). This resulted in a 38% reduction in passenger fares and vehicle fares under 5.5m.  A 25% discount for elderly and disabled passengers and 50% for Under 22’s also applies.

Council Leader, James Stockan, said: “During these ongoing times of financial uncertainty for so many, it’s important to ensure our lifeline ferry services are as affordable as possible but this standstill position is a short-term fix – our real need is for a significant capital injection to see our ageing ferry fleet replaced.

“The Transport Minister has pledged that in the longer term, the Islands Connectivity Plan will include a review of ferry fares, alongside a wider ‘fair fares’ review, to ensure that their fares policy continues to address the needs of island communities. This is all very well, but the heart of the matter still remains ferries in Orkney that are no longer fit for purpose. We will be sharing our views at every opportunity and continuing to make Orkney’s case on future ferry funding in terms of the fleet replacement.”