Additional passenger ferry sailings

An additional passenger service will operate between Sanday, Stronsay, Eday and Kirkwall whilst the MV Earl Sigurd is away to have a new crane fitted. 

The North Isles vessel will go to Peterhead from 4-8 November for the works to be completed. During this period, an additional passenger service shall operate between the islands and Kirkwall with the MV Nordic Sea, subject to weather conditions. 

The remaining North Isles vessels, MV Varagen and MV Earl Thorfinn, will operate the refit timetable during this period. 

The MV Nordic Sea fills a gap during periods of refit and adds capacity for services under increased demand during the summer months. 

Chair of the Board of Orkney Ferries, Councillor Mellissa Thomson said: “The Board are acutely aware of the impacts to Sanday, Stronsay and Eday by removing one of the ferries from the service. The MV Nordic Sea will provide additional frequency for passengers during this short period of time. Usage of the passenger service will be monitored to determine if it is viable to consider further passenger sailings during the Outer North Isles refit period, subject to budget availability.” 

As the relief boat, the Nordic Sea, which can carry up to 47 passengers, may be required to cover any breakdowns within the fleet. Service provision will therefore be subject to availability. 

For further timetable information please visit www.orkneyferries.co.uk.  

Photo: courtesy of Graham Campbell