As a gateway for around 100 cruise ships in a season, Lerwick Harbour makes a major contribution to Shetland's important tourism industry.
Lerwick has long been a port-of-call for cruise ships which have arrived in record numbers in recent years. It is one of Scotland's top destinations, ideally located midway between Iceland, the Faroe Islands and Norway and the Scottish mainland and Europe.
Cruise ships up to 230 metres in length berth alongside at either Mair's Pier or Holmsgarth 5 (conditions dependent), while larger ships anchor with passengers just a few minutes away by tender from a modern landing stage and welcome ashore pavilion located in the heart of Lerwick's town centre. The small 1.7 metre tidal range facilities ease of transfer.
The main shopping areas in Lerwick are close to hand and provide relaxing and pleasant shopping excursions for cruise passengers and crews. Lerwick is a very picturesque town to explore on foot with many interesting places to visit.
The islands’ many attractions for visitors include the fantastic five-star Shetland Museum and Archives and Mareel the multi-purpose entertainment venue, both located at a restored historic dock on the Lerwick waterfront.
“Definitely the highlight of the cruise, we loved Lerwick and Shetland. Beautiful island with lovely friendly local people.”
