Ferry fares to rise in line with Transport Scotland

Fares on the internal ferry routes serving Orkney are to rise by 10% in line with the rate set by Transport Scotland for subsidised external ferry services. 

The increase will come into force on 1 April 2025 and affect all fares. 

Here’s a summary of the main price differences for Orkney Ferries:  

The Council’s Service Manager for Transportation, Laura Cromarty, explained: “The Council agreed previously 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.” 

The Council’s Chair of Development and Infrastructure, Councillor Kristopher Leask, said: “We were aware that the freeze on ferry fares was unlikely to be continued given the budgetary constraints being felt across the nation and within every sector of society, be it public or private enterprise.  

“During these ongoing times of financial uncertainty for so many, it’s important to ensure our lifeline ferry services are as affordable as possible. The Scottish Government 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. The Council 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.”