14 Hours on the UK's longest Ferry

NorthLink Ferries operate the longest Ferry route in the UK & Scotland from the Aberdeen on the Scottish mainland to the Scottish island of Orkney and Shetland. I have never done a ferry video before so this will be my fist video on a ferry in the north sea on NorthLink Ferries. This week we are on the MV Hrossey as we take the 14 hour overnight voyage up to Lerwick in Shetland from Aberdeen Harbour.
This is a comprehensive self funded Trip report & review of NorthLink Ferries from Aberdeen Harbor Ferry Terminal to Lerwick Ferry Terminal in Shetland Via Kirkwall Hatston Terminal in Orkney
#scotland #ferry #orkney #shetland
Departure Port: Aberdeen Harbor Ferry Terminal
Destination Port: Lerwick Ferry Terminal
Shipping Company: NorthLink Ferries
Vessel: MV Hrossey
Fare Price: £41.50
Extras: £177
Total Cost: £219
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[@WorldWide_Dom]

What do you prefer, this ferry ride or flying?

[@ohnoimissed]

I think ferry rides have a sort of romantic, old school charm and as you said, if you're not in a rush can be part of the holiday experience instead of just getting you from A to B. Been years since I've been on one myself though - now you've made me want to try it again!

[@bmused55]

Dom misses the massive "Winch Only" sign painted on the deck so thinks a helicopter lands on the yellow circle. he he he

[@aiden3170]

As an Orcadian I always love using NorthLink, both on this route and especially on their other route, Stromness to Scrabster. Stromness to Scrabster is much shorter at only 1.5 hours but what it lacks in length it more than makes up for in views. Leaving/arriving in Stromness and passing St Johns Head and the Old man of Hoy are just some of the highlights. The ship is the M.V Hamnavoe, my favorite ship in the world, (The one you used in the thumbnail of this video) and is very similar to Hrossey and Hjaltland. I could not reccomend this enough for a future video if you're planning on doing more ferries in the future. Great video, as always.

[@walterfillingham]

Finally you tried it :) my first job at sea on the mv Hjaltland the sister ship, as night barman (in the days when alcohol was served all night until 6am).. lol you were on the “horsy” as we used to call our sister ship.. actually pronounced Rossay in real life. The top deck was finally closed off at night, let’s just say due to inappropriate behaviour by mostly drunk people looking for a quiet spot (between the funnels was always a popular spot).. lol 😅 the mid ships bar used to be open all night, though I believe it just sells teas, coffees, crisps, chocolates, sandwiches and a couple of pies they could heat up if needed. We could also sell any available cabins during the night too (mostly to drunk people). The forward bar is only open during the summer season when it’s very busy. The forward bar is extremely popular with locals using sleeping bags, at times it looks like a youth hostel, we even used to turn down the lights. WiFi and satellite tv often interrupted especially if rough weather (the dish getting bumped about makes it loose signal.. often)

[@sandiandgregh]

We absolutely loved it and took the ferry both ways. The return was a little wild but we’re good sailors so weren’t really bothered. Friendly staff, great cabin and delicious food. And Shetland itself was a wow. Will do it again.

[@neilcoram3495]

Hi Dom I did the same crossing myself in June 2022. I drove you from Surrey 557 miles. On the ship I booked a sleeping pod which was really comfortable and only 18 pound each way. Like yourself I really enjoyed the crossing and got a good 6 hours sleep. I had Haddock and chips and a pint of tennets for 14 pound in the cafeteria. Food was very good and well priced. I'm backup to Scotland next for some island hopping on the west coast.

[@barbarahallowell2613]

❤ Great video. I had the great fortune to take this Northlink trip 3 years ago. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Had so much fun, met great people. 😊

[@Gaile-ht7vc]

Great to experience different ways of getting to the Shetlands. Seems very good value for money. Great video Dom, keep doing what you do because these videos are extremely helpful and beneficial to anyone wanting to visit and explore. Love these Scotland videos thank you 🙏

[@lynnek9080]

Ferry there flight back for me probably. Really enjoyed this video. Food looked great.. Look forward to the next one!

[@MrStuartAllan]

This is definitely on the bucket list. Great video!

[@glenfordburrell1076]

Deeside is my mother's place of birth, It's near Wakefield. Both hamlets are in the parish of trelawny, Jamaica!

[@user-noZTrains001]

Looked very good, I fancy doing this journey now. I love long ferry journeys and have done a few in my time, good to know it's a good one on our doorstep.

[@belugast]

Dom great video. Please note that was not a helicopter landing pad on top but just a winch zone they do not land on board. 👍😊

[@robertalan3214]

Fantastic video Dom I did the return trip last year in a pod, definitely a cabin next time, those pods are useless 👍

[@sillarsscott7694]

I just wanted you to know that I enjoyed this video immensely I think that I watched your video on the steam train in the highlands Your friend Scott on the west coast of Canada

[@lardeyell]

DEFINITELY try a pod. In winter. It'll be a hoot.

[@Ida-Adriana]

@@lardeyell 😑

[@AllisonOverton-k6r]

I think your video is great, however the fact that you had lovely calm seas could be a bit misleading to people who might be watching with a view to doing the trip themselves. My husband and I have done the return journey four times in total, and only one of those crossings was anything like smooth. The last time we sailed from Lerwick to Aberdeen in 2020 (we live in the Shire) there was a force 8 blowing, and we had to lie in our beds and brace with our feet against something solid in order not to slide up and down the bed or be thrown onto the floor. The roughest part of the journey is always Sumburgh Head to an hour or two south of Fair Isle (or vice versa). We travel with our caravan, hence choosing the ferry over flying, but nothing will induce me to travel on that ship without obtaining a dose of tranquilliser from the doc (single dose prescribed on request) and anti-sickness pills. I'm probably an extreme case, being a nervous traveller, but I think it's important to show potential travellers that it is not always smooth on that route. Saying that, Orkney and Shetland never disappoint, and for most, it is probably worth a few hours of discomfort in order to sample the beauty of the islands.

[@176MarkW]

Really enjoyed that one. Enjoyed the arrival shots of Lerwick there - it almost looks like a Greek village with all those buildings on multiple levels. Weather a bit different though!

[@alasdairmackenzie905]

Great video Dom. Thanks for posting it. In answer to your question about the "Hirta", she is a Scottish Government owned and operated fishery protection vessel, one of several used to police the fishing waters around Scotland's coast. Her officers have powers of arrest and detention if they detect illegal activity.

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Ah that explains why it looks a bit serious then 😅 thanks for letting me know.

[@stormhammerfirebrand5820]

Great report mate!

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Thanks glad you liked it. Many more coming soon.

[@janinehawkins9565]

Ferry ride definitely, part of the experience. Can always fly back.Heard really good things about the quality of Northlink. Great vlog as always Dom💯

[@joebowring3969]

I'm going on this in 2 weeks, it's amazing to see whats on board and I'm sailing on the Hrossey

[@anthonydyer3939]

I loved the journey. Living in the Shire, I’m very familiar with Aberdeen, but this is the most scenic departure and arrival in and out of the city. I had big skies in the evening and seeing both Aberdeenshire and Caithness in the same view was something special. Sailing past Fair Isle in the August dawn was special as well. But I like the composition of your videos with a focus on the deck activities. It shows off the drama and choreography of the routing activities of ferry operations.

[@jimgemmell2831]

Excellent vid Dom. I sense an ongoing theme in tonights TDL quiz, along the lines of 'Mind your head' or 'Watch out for that light' 😁😁👍👍👍👍

[@ross14wpc42]

Another good video, Dom. Looks like a nice way to travel if you’re not in a hurry. Nice to have a choice between flying and air travel. Lovely scenery 😊

[@ross14wpc42]

Oh dear, I need to read what I’ve written before I post it 😂….I meant that it’s nice to have the choice between air travel and sea travel to Shetland….doh!!! 😂😂

[@paulharvey9149]

It looks like you had a fairly calm crossing, I wonder how much different your experience would have been in rough seas - as I think that crossing is well-known for? Certainly, you'd be glad of the bed and cabin, from what people say - and from my limited experience of rough conditions between Ullapool and Stornoway, when the done thing seems to be to find somewhere to lie flat... The pods LOOK okay (I've only ever seen them on film, too); but don't be tempted by a reclining chair, as it's contrary to nature to not stretch out at night, and I'd not wish that on anybody - even though it probably is a notch or three better than the Caledonian Sleeper offering...!!

[@RoweenaDearsley]

Nice one Dom!

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Thanks! Glad you liked it.

[@timbounds7190]

Many moons ago, I went by Ferry from Aberdeen to Shetland....contrary to expectations, the North Sea was millpond-smooth! However, I got some sort of nasty stomach bug so it was a nightmare crossing! But I hate ferries anyway - so tedious! Hours of your life stuck on a bouncy steel box. I'd much rather fly - and I was delighted when the return ferry from Shetland to Orkney was cancelled and we had to take a plane! One hour instead of Eight! However, I must say that the ferry you took looks a bit more luxurious than the one I took - especially the cabin. The old one wasn't uncomfortable, but rather more basic.

[@mikestephens5622]

The ship looked fantastic, and the food, delicious. Looked like a lovely cabin too. Definitely would like to do this, but isnt accomodation on Shetland hard to find, and expensive. Totally worth the money, and great video.

[@WorldWide_Dom]

You should! Shetland is one of those places where it totally depends on the time of year you plan to go as the prices vary widely from the times I have looked.

[@telemachus53]

The salmon made me ravenous as did the sponge and custard, (what a fancy school you must've gone to). I loved Aberdeen and am returning I hope. I may just try this epic journey!

[@stevebrittain4020]

Definitely on the wish list. Have you considered a comparison between Stena Line and P&O on the routes from Cairnryan to Northern Ireland?

[@welshykev]

Excellent video Dom. Flight might be quicker, but you certainly dont get the same views as going by ferry.

[@williamsanger3868]

Interesting viewing, thank you and your funny comment at dinner 'smell of diesel and fish and chips' had me in stitches!

[@Xantec]

i sailed on the Hrossey in 2018 and 2019, wasn't a bad trip either. really comfortable ship and friendly staff

[@trollofduty007]

Very helpful and entertaining video! I plan to take a ferry up to Orkney to attend a wedding up there later in the year, this gave an excellent insight into what I can expect! Kinda hope they do that salmon dish when I'm going, it looked stellar! Also your mention of the pod 'rooms' piqued my interest. I'd certainly watch a video of you staying in one of them. Might be the option I choose when I do my crossing

[@woolyimage]

I have travelled on these ships a fair bit. The pod rooms are actually pod lounges of which there are 3 on each ship of various sizes. The ‘pods’ are effectively large chairs which recline. Most people find them u comfortable and that has certainly been my experience. A pod chair is much cheaper than a cabin but I would always book a cabin if you can. If 2 of you were travelling together the cabin costs the same for 1 or 2. So with two of you travelling the per person cost is lower. There are various grades and capacities up to 4 berths. But only a few of the more expensive grade cabins offer Magnus lounge access which I think is worth the extra money. Northlink have a great website so you’ll find all the details there. Happy travels.

[@WorldWide_Dom]

I will be certain to give them a try at some point. 😁

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Very good info there. Good work. Love to see people helping each other out.

[@trollofduty007]

@@woolyimage I see! I did look it up and yeeeeah I see your point, doesn’t look super comfy, doubt you’d get much sleep in that I envisioned more of a, Japanese style pod room, that’ essentially just a bed with some charging ports Thank you for the insights! Will definitely keep it in mind

[@woolyimage]

@@WorldWide_DomI can think of many many things which would be more fun !!

[@davidbbone]

Another fantastic video Dominic. I've often thought about doing that trip but always been concerned about the roughness of the crossing. Looks like you lucked out on that front though. The food looked great too!

[@wolfgangschrader4645]

Came across your chanel by chance and subscribed straight away ! A very interesting report. I have done the crossing a few times, as I have a very good friend living in Shetland. However, as I am a wimp, I hit the bunk the minute I get onboard, and don't get up again until we dock again !!!

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Thank you for sharing this ferry ride. Yes, that is a helipad area for helicopters. But when not in use for that purpose then yes to be able to walk in that area while in port, I take it that it is ok to do but the crew members would let passengers know!😊

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Yes, I agree with you about having your cabin with the amenities here for this trip on a ferry ship. This ship has car cargo along with other items as supplies and people are onboard to transport. Yes, it is a ferry ship not a boat!!😊

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Finally, I think you had a great trip here. Yes, as you know many countries have those ferry ships that are really needed to bring in supplies, food and retail items for stores. Some coastal islands don't have airports to fly to. But your does but still ships can carry a lot more heavy amounts of supplies to towns or cities in general. Also, those sea ferrying companies have become very smart in setting up cabin, meal and drink services on these ferry ships. Some people still do nit like flying so these ferry ships have become very economical in pricing to take people along. For me, I have to go to the Chicago River area and the Mississippi River area to see a lot of ship traffic of cargo ships and ferry ships. Also, I would have to live along the coastal city areas to see the ferries here in the USA. As history reflexes our travel here in the USA, we will go on an airplane in a minute to get somewhere!!😊

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Furthermore, you look good in your cabin able to relax after nice meals.😊😊

[@davidknox5929]

Good video Dom.

[@ScottishT]

Looks like a brilliant trip

[@WorldWide_Dom]

It really is. Give it a go if you can.

[@CherylRayment-ec3ke]

New to the channel. Very informative. Can't wait to see more

[@jackharrison6771]

You'd probably enjoy some of the Outer Hebridean ferry trips too. I love the West, but this really looks good.

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Oh I’ve definitely got some of those planned. 😁

[@AScottishOdyssey]

I think that a ferry is classed as a ship. From what I've seen online, a boar is bigger and tends to carry more cargo. I do need to do this ferry trip. I need to visit Orkney and Shetland, especially for my own channel.

[@colinootnaboot8256]

You use to be able to book onto the Moo Cruise,when they ferried cattle from the islands to mart in aberdeen.

[@jacquihughes6172]

Great video

[@jockkkk]

I'm travelling up via ferry for the first time in October with my dog so your video was really helpful thanks. My only concern is how long I'll need to leave the dog in the cabin while I fetch food etc but we'll see

[@sheepdogman1]

14.5 hour crossing via Orkney

[@2Dylandog]

High marks for the photographic content. You got with good technique most of the best shots, and did some good editing. However, your commentary involved a lot of unnecessary repetition, although you sound like a nice sympathetic person to know. What happened to those two free drinks? We never saw you downing them!

[@richardoliver6131]

Well you have sold it I want to travel by boat

[@richardbeck5789]

What tv channels do you get in Cabins. Do you get BT sport by any chance? Also what if WiFi speed like

[@Raylufc]

A fantastic vlog I that's on my list of things to do cheers

[@Prettypony602]

A hotel on the sea! Can you do england to Ireland at some point so i can decide if i will be scared or not 🤭

[@WorldWide_Dom]

I actually have it planned from Holyhead in Wales to Dublin on the back of a train ride on the Gerald of Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@D11AVW]

2:36 that ain’t no trawler pal 🤣

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Never said it was

[@john07973]

Good stuff 👍 did you decide to give the bar a miss ?

[@mim3097]

Sick bags and a bible. Seems a tad ominous 😂

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Well me personally if it’s rough seas I’m worried that I’m going to become a cropper but after a few hours I’m praying that I will, so I can definitely see the logic 😅

[@WeAreThePeople1690]

Mariners worldwide, no matter the religious beliefs they hold, will always have a bible, koran, etc. on board. As for the sick bags, they are a must on that route for some people. At least there was plenty of them. And not the one you get as standard on airlines.

[@amityboy14mo]

OMG

[@60_Degrees_North]

I prefer flying even though Northlink is much cheaper. The fisheries boat could either have been Hirta or Jura.

[@josephrogers5337]

how nice clean the ferry is. what would a budget trip cost?

[@TheRealSimpsons1]

Foot passenger price is £20-30. A pod (aircraft seat) ab extra £25. A cabin costs an extra £100-140. Food, meals from around £12. So you could just rough it on basic seat with snacks you brought on for £20. Or you could go for it for around £150 per person per journey.

[@jameslucero9547]

That price is good for a ocean view and food.

[@WorldWide_Dom]

My thoughts exactly and bear in mind you get to sleep. Plus depending when you book the price is the same as flying, so Northlink definitely have a competitive product here

[@KrisswUK1]

Was that hum in you room annoying, did it last the whole trip. Thanks

[@Cumascaigh]

I plan on doing this trip myself, hopefully in May. Forgive me for asking. I've never been that far into Scotland before, is a mild Scottish accent common in Aberdeen over the more broad ones you hear in Glasgow and Edinburgh? I'm English by the way, feel free to rinse me 🤣

[@WorldWide_Dom]

I wouldn’t “rinse” you don’t worry, Aberdeen is a strange case as the city due to oil sector has very mild accent due to the number of people from abroad and elsewhere, that being said you do get thicker accents now and again. Where you are more likely to get the much thicker accents though is in Aberdeenshire that’s when you get into Doric territory which is actually a recognised sub language of English instead of just being an accent, so even a lot of us scot need translation 🤣. Generally you will be fine, we are all friendly and people here won’t take offence if you ask us to repeat ourselves, obviously as long as you are not obnoxious about it. You’ll be fine. Out of curiosity how do you find my accent in terms of be able to understand it? I only ask as I’m doing KZbin it’s important to me that people are able to understand me 😅

[@Cumascaigh]

@@WorldWide_Dom I thought one of your parents must have been Scottish and the other English. It's mild man 😄 You can totally tell you're a jock though

[@davey1121]

Why did you find it necessary to eat your dinner and film yourself ? I find that a little strange

[@WorldWide_Dom]

You’ll find a lot of strangeness in my videos I’m afraid I’m always experimenting and playing around with different shots and segments, some stay some go.

[@andrewclark8630]

What a lovely video. Was breakfast good? You had less to say about it than your dinner.

[@WorldWide_Dom]

It was amazing, I couldn’t get it across in the film as I was rushing to finish it to get up on deck to capture the views coming into Lerwick harbour

[@philipfieldhouse9229]

Way too expensive for a so called lifeline service. Many isles folk just sleep in the forward lounge or recliners to save money.

[@josephrogers5337]

what was the cost?

[@WeAreThePeople1690]

You didn't listen, or watch to 25:30 did you? 😂

[@josephrogers5337]

Yes I did but I commented before I saw that part of the video. The ferry was so nice looking. Ferry for long trips are not that common in USA. The Alaska ferry and shorter ferry rides in Washington state. I t think our our side of the pond we should do more relaxing trips like your ferry. Thanks.@@WeAreThePeople1690

[@josephrogers5337]

In 1960 there was a ferry that went from Baltimore to Norfolk VA. it was an overnight trip but sadly it is now only history.

[@cristopification]

The fisheries vessel is a waste of tax payers money!! They just steam about wasting diesel and don't actually patrol scottish waters fisheries properly!!

[@WorldWide_Dom]

Sadly I don't know enough to comment, so I'll take your word on it.

[@Fat_Cat_747]

Orkney is worthwhile but Shetland is rubbish. I have been to neither but I know everything and I'm always right.