John O' Groats Ferries
Visit the Orkney Islands from John O' Groats and discover amazing scenery, history and wildlife. The ferry departure point is only a 20-minute drive from Mackays Hotel in Wick.

Orkney day trips with John O' Groats Ferries

Visit the Orkney Islands off the north coast

Here at Mackays Hotel in Wick, we are only a 20-minute drive from the foot passenger ferry terminal at John O’ Groats. So you can enjoy a fabulous day trip during your stay with us! And John O’ Groats is a fascinating place to visit too, being the most northerly village in the UK. Park up in the UK’s most northerly car park and take the passenger ferry. John O’ Groats Ferries offer crossings from John O’ Groats to the Orkney Isles, as well as Orkney day tours and wildlife cruises.

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When does the ferry run?

The Orkney ferry from John O’ Groats to Orkney, runs every day between May and September. The crossing takes around 40 minutes. There is a choice of tickets, from basic ferry crossings to day tours and cruises. Day tours include a luxury coach travel at the other end. Choose your tickets and book in advance here. The John O’ Groats ferry is able to carry bikes and accepts dogs on leads. Cars are not allowed on the ferry. But you can leave your vehicle in the large free car park next to the ferry office.

Reviews...

I stayed at the Mackays Hotel,and the steak was amazing done to perfection. The owner took the time to chat and josie the server was lovely, very helpful and gave her own recommendations on the menu. My second time in wick and will definitely stay and eat at the Mackays Hotel again. Room 25 is very nice and comfortable. Really nice hotel 4 stars in my mind

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Orkney trips...

Discover Orkney

As you can see, the John O’ Groats ferry is not just a way to leave the mainland and explore the Orkney Islands. It is a way to learn more about the wildlife that calls the seas their home and experience some of the most beautiful natural scenery that you can find in the UK.

Orkney Day Tours

If you want to see the best of Orkney without the cost and hassle of taking a car, the John O’ Groats Ferries day tours are just the ticket. Here, you can enjoy return travel from John O’Groats to Orkney by ferry, a guided coach tour of the islands, with visits to Skara Brae, the Italian Chapel and the ancient standing stones of Orkney. Book online.

Orkney Wildlife Cruises

These 90-minute cruises from John O’ Groats take you past some of the most impressive and rugged scenery in Orkney. Not only this, but you are likely to see skuas, puffins, grey seals and more! Dogs are allowed on board and there is plenty of space for pushchairs. You can choose between sitting out on deck or in the covered saloon. Book online.

Start planning today!

Book your north coast adventures …

So what are you waiting for?! Start planning your fun-packed holiday with Mackays Hotel today! Book your ferry to Orkney with John O’ Groats Ferries and book your stay in nearby Wick, choosing from our welcoming hotel and self-catering accommodation.

Sunset over headland in Orkney