How Different the Northlink is After Dark! My Return Voyage from Aberdeen to Kirkwall, Orkney...

[@K1W1fly]

A busy chip shop is always a good sign... If the locals are supporting the place, Its worth it.

[@steve-marsh]

So true!

[@tonypaddler]

... or supporting the plaice 🐟 ... Sorry, I'll get my coat 🙄😏

[@adema1978]

Now I want fish and chips...

[@tonypaddler]

@@adema1978 well after getting back last night from a mini three day cycle tour in Scotland that's exactly what I had(dock) .. Sorry, I'm doing it again 🙄

[@adema1978]

@@tonypaddler When I went to the Chippie in Wexford once I cod my chance in exclaiming there's the catch of the day.

[@schilkepicc]

The reason the ferry slowed down was so it didn’t arrive into Aberdeen too early, NorthLink would have to pay the harbour extra for an early arrival. Another great video, thanks Steve

[@hazellamb2359]

I love that you show us these really low-cost trips....but I'm getting concerned about your diet and sleep!!! Thanks for showing all the wonderful places I couldn't hope to visit!

[@spymaine89]

yes he eats crap worse now we know all the food has cancer causing chems. he need throw some organic nut and organic broccoli, in his bag.............. taste great when your hungry...............

[@kudzumoose3861]

I love how you take the mundane every day situations and make them interesting. Liked the fish dinner and the pub hunt too. You do good work! Annoying people on the overnight trip. Such inconsiderate behavior.

[@steve-marsh]

It was an experience for sure! Learning to just keep that camera rolling! :)

[@ScottKinnear]

Theres no need and Ferry staff should be telling them to quieten down. Playing music at that time. They should get a set of headphones. Steves got a big heart doing all that travelling on his own. Id get lost 😂🤪 not a good single traveller. Doesnt appeal to me, not nowadays anyway, I used to just go away fishing and golfing when i was younger.

[@happysporran]

Fish and chips reviews are a highlight for me!

[@duncanmcewan1049]

Yeah - I was shocked that the crew just ignored the folk lying about like that. Given a seat reservation was mandatory - they should have been "somewhere" - not blocking the corridors.

[@ScottKinnear]

@@steve-marsh you done great Stevie. Great videos 👍

[@michaelbushell4356]

We’ve always gone to Orkney from Scrabster, which is a much shorter crossing and you see the Old Man of Hoy! That night crossing looked terrible. Once again you’ve done a trip so we don’t have to! Thanks Steve.

[@steve-marsh]

Much prefer that crossing too, but it's a long trip to just get to the ferry eh?

[@maryreid4273]

I live in Orkney and there are plusses and minuses to both, depending on where your eventual destination is, how much you like driving/being on a bus/train, if you can sleep on the overnight ferry, how rough the sea is, how good a sailor you are, if you can get space on the boat (Steve's route here can be really busy and there are not enough cabins most of the time). Shetland folk only have the Aberdeen option, Orkney folk have more options overall.

[@veronicaroach3667]

@@maryreid4273 The rest of humanity tend to forget that some folks live on islands & have problematic travel to go anywhere else - makes me thankful I am on a very large piece of land & don't have that particular problem, but life anywhere has it's issues to overcome, and these folks have the sea breezes & the ozone in the air so hmm - what am I missing ?

[@nannymackify]

What a lovely video Steve! Delighted for you and your 200,000 followers; I remember the excitement when you hit 50,000 ❤

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

I love ferries around the Scottish isles, even as an old bloke I still get excited like a little kid.

[@steve-marsh]

Ahhh I'm the same!

[@janinehawkins9565]

Amazing capture of the sunrise Steve. Too right, far too peopley for me, definitely an out of season trip.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers! I hadn't expected to be outside to capture it :D Out of season wins for me, shame about the lack of daylight, but I'd take a chilled ferry any day!

[@peterdnreynolds777]

Brilliant video as always!! Hate when ferries are packed out. Amazed that the deck was open all night long. Hope youbgot some rest when you got home. Hope all is well and hope you have a great weekend. Take care

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Peter you too! Aye slept all day when I got back :) Yeah, the wee deck at the stern is open all night, mainly for smokers I think!

[@maryreid4273]

Smoking is not allowed in inside areas on board, so at least one deck will always be open - normally the one right behind the food area.

[@jeanstrang3779]

Fish and chips for lunch and dinner sounds good to me, you are such a trouper Steve taking us to each deck on your sea journey to Kirkwall, you make sure we see all the places of intrest in all your travels, so enjoy coming along.

[@rangolizard2006]

wow what a sunrise, that bit at 22:12 with the seagull flying across the sunrise would make a beautiful piece of wall art

[@t.m.warren2124]

Steve time! Can’t wait. Here we go….

[@steve-marsh]

Haha cheers :)

[@t.m.warren2124]

@@steve-marsh I loved the water with the moon behind it. So beautiful! But poor Steve. You looked absolutely nackered at 4am. I do hope you got some sleep once you got home. Onto the next adventure. Thank you

[@Xantec]

5:04 in 2019 i travelled up saturday to catch the ferry sunday, slept by the cenotaph in my car. After boarding and getting my meal I went on to the upper observation deck

[@steve-marsh]

Nice!!!

[@timrosenburgh8597]

Another great video Steve, Nothing wrong with having Fish and Chips twice in one day. Glad you managed to get a beer. I don't know how you managed to stay awake. You must have been knackered when you got home. Thanks again. Look forward to the next one.

[@steve-marsh]

I slept all day long when I got back and it was a comfy sleep !

[@lardeyell]

Nicely highlighting the grim realities of our "lifeline" service there. Onboard accommodation has become ridiculously hard to book unless you're booking three months in advance. And nobody can tell why.

[@steve-marsh]

Yeah, totally noticed that when I was researching dates, every single one was like 'no cabins available'

[@lardeyell]

@@steve-marsh There's always been bottlenecks during school holidays...but this past year or so it's been grim. Your Southbound journey was probably a bit extreme, given the exodus after the Tall Ships started leaving on the Saturday. Incidentally, the boat slows in the lee of the mainland for the timing of its arrival at 7am. It'll never be early. The same happens coming North, once you're off Shetland it'll slow for arrival in Lerwick at half seven...

[@davidrle23]

It's why no one locks their cars in Shetland. Stealing the car is the easy bit, getting it off the island involves at least a 3 week lead time! The reality is we need bigger ferries, but these ships are only half way through their lifespan and given the Scottish Government's inability to build ferries for the west coast, I don't see them getting new ferries for Shetland any time soon. There has been talk over the years of new 'ropax' freight ships that would have space for 200 passengers, to eliviate some of the pain on busy crossings but so far nothing has come to light. There's also the bottle neck of Aberdeen which can't take ferries any bigger than the current Northlink twins and despite building a whole new larger harbour, didn't put a ramp in it. And despite some Shetlanders suggesting sailing to a different port, Aberdeen is and always will be the logical place for the lifeline ferry service to sail to. I think one solution is to try and have a dedicated Kirkwall > Aberdeen link with additional tonnage. Half the problem is Orcadian's and Shetlander's are fighting for the same cabin and car deck space. There's not a huge amount of interest in the Kirkwall > Lerwick leg of the journey, perhaps keep it in at the weekend like the olden days. Doesn't need to be their every other night!

[@postscript67]

Since the pandemic you can no longer book a bunk in a shared cabin. The ability to book a whole cabin to yourself did always restrict the availability of sleeping accommodation, but now that it is the only option it is much worse.

[@brianmcclure6702]

Another Good Adventure. Thanks for sharing Steve, good editing. Hope you get some sleep. B. McClure

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Brian! I slept all day when I got home!

[@cjyoung7372]

As a kiwi (and a ginger 🤭) I had no idea what to expect when when I visited Scotland what I found was a strong sense of home and belonging Steve really love that part of the world and every time I watch a video of the hebrides I drop a tear and yearn for a vist to a place where my ancestors come from i can't wait to return ❤

[@steve-marsh]

We both yearn for the other side of the world - house swap? :)

[@simonwhitlock9189]

I really admire your stamina Steve it is more than I could put up with at my age and I always look for a cabin, thanks for taking me along it was an insight into what was on offer. Till next time stay safe and cheers.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Simon! I got caught out a bit on the return, expecting it to be faster, a cabin is always the best shout, but they are booked solid all summer

[@maryreid4273]

@@steve-marsh Cabins are often booked up ahead of time, but you can sometimes find them at short notice if someone has had to cancel - we've had that a couple of times and have promptly booked them, because they disappear quickly! It's always worth checking the website if you are keen to get a cabin. You can also ask to be put on the cabin waiting list, though not sure if they only go through that on the day of sailing.

[@soykatwobadger2963]

Боже ж мій, Стіве, як ви витримали таку складну подорож? Дякую вам за це дивовижне відео! Я захоплююсь вашою витримкою на великих піших переходах, але цілий день і ніч без відпочинку- ви себе не бережете, шановний Стіве. 💕💕💕💕 Бажаю вам все ж таки більш комфортних подорожей

[@mikestephens5622]

Such a contrast, with the heavenly scenery, and the hellish atmosphere on the ship. Good you were sleeping the next day, because you had panda eyes at the end. Only for essential trips, but much better in winter. 😊

[@steve-marsh]

Spot on Mike! Out on that wee deck was the only place to be on the way back (I'm glad not to share the smell onboard as well!)

[@leonb2637]

We appreciate your sacrificing your sleep and body to give us some video of your journey. A good lesson for anyone who takes this ferry. Not all travel is great, you just hope it balances out - and it usually does - with the good stuff, the unexpected, the joy of discovery.

[@steve-marsh]

Well said! I have just booked some more 'challenging trips' ;)

[@hollykacz1958]

It’s been a great video. I love ferries so I appreciate your fairy journeys.

[@TartanCatholic]

A few years ago I got decidedly inhibited through drink and fell asleep on this crossing, luckily a nice young Dutch man who I’d got talking to woke be up but I did hold the boat up and had to be escorted through the vehicle deck 😬

[@steve-marsh]

Haha that's hilarious :D

[@patriciafuchs5970]

Looks like a very nice ferry and a lovely evening. Your room was tiny. Your fish and chips looks good. People sleeping on the floor reminds me of the ferries to Newfoundland where people sleep wherever they can find a spot! Nice sunrise! Bet you’re glad to be disembarking! Enjoy your sleep .

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Patricia! I slept all day and it was the best ever! :D

[@jackyyuen1939]

Much appreciate that you showed us the wonderful moment of the rising sun from the horizon 22:07.

[@steve-marsh]

A pleasure! Not much else I could do on the ferry at that time :D

[@timbounds7190]

I'm sure Shetlanders will be very pleased to hear you say that inadvertently travelling to Shetland would be a nightmare!

[@steve-marsh]

Haha it would be if your accommodation is in Orkney!

[@maryreid4273]

A planned trip to Shetland would never be a nightmare, an accidental one might, especially on a rough crossing!

[@Ida-Adriana]

@@maryreid4273Maybe if you’re good at planning 😂

[@richardfurness7556]

I've only been to Orkney once. The ferry from John o' Groats to Burwick took about 45 minutes, the bus to Kirkwall quite a bit longer as it stopped to let passengers visit the church on Lamb Holm built by Italian prisoners of war. The funniest thing about my stay was realising that when Orcadians talk about going 'down south' they mean Thurso or Wick.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha brilliant! Nice route that past (over) the causeways!

[@maryreid4273]

There's also a running joke that sometimes they 'go south' to Shetland too! I moved here nearly 20 years ago, vowed I'd never say 'going south' and now say it all the time! Kirkwall to Aberdeen is handy for getting right into a city, but the Stromness - Scrabster (Northlink) and St Margaret's Hope to Gills Bay (Pentland) are both popular too.

[@wandaenman5630]

Wow, another interesting video. I am shocked they let people just camp out in all the public spaces on the ship, that doesn't seem very safe. You were a trooper for staying up and filming this for us. That loud music at 3 am was certainly extra. You will need to sleep for a couple of days after that. Amazing filming as always. Great job Steve. 😃

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Wanda! Oh my own bed was comfy after this! :)

[@maryreid4273]

There are not enough cabins on the boats unfortunately. There are pod lounges, but the pods are glorified seats and apparently not comfortable to sleep in. There are also recliner seats, again not that comfortable to sleep in. If you have to travel but cannot get a cabin (quite common as they are often booked in advance) then the only other option is to lie down somewhere.

[@duncanmcewan1049]

@@maryreid4273 Maybe I am weird (My wife would say no maybe about it lol), but I can sleep well enough in a recliner seat. I would be more comfy in a recliner seat, than lying on the floor. Lucky for me that there seemed to be an abundance of spare seats 😂

[@maryreid4273]

@@duncanmcewan1049 I have slept in the recliner chairs a long time ago, but I wouldn't want to do it again unless I really had to. We try to only go if we can get a cabin but sometimes people need to travel at short notice and all the cabins are booked! I am glad you find the recliners ok though.

[@charlesscott1512]

Slighty out of the area but the Alaska State ferries from Bellingham to Haines about 4days they do allow passengers to actually pitch tents in public areas and sheltered deck areas

[@marcy3127]

For such a busy ferry ⛴️ service, you'd think they'd be better equipped re food and drinks, etc. I loved seeing Aberdeen again, thanks Steve.

[@scorpionrider25]

Great video Steve. The difference in duration in the crossing has to do with HGV-drivers. By making the nighttime crossing take longer they get their uninterrupted rest (as required by law). It is this way for all the ferries with nighttime crossings. If you'd be able to see the occupation for the sleepers in the inside cabins (you can't btw), you'd probably find those matching the number of HGV's on board.

[@steveemery546]

Love seeing our van at the start. Daisy’s on it :-). Good films well made and informative

[@john07973]

Good video Steve 👍 The ships security should have dealt with the grubs playing music at 3am, a clump or moving them to the kennels would do the trick.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha beautiful! :D

[@tsr207]

Steve's videos are always highly enjoyable. He shows the total travelling experience (both the good and bad) in a style that creates the feeling that you are on the ship beside him! Excellent as always!

[@steve-marsh]

Exactly how I like to show it, so very appreciated!

[@stuartsutherland7664]

How about a fish supper tour round Scotland by ferries and public transport? You might need to fast afterwards though!

[@steve-marsh]

Haha I need a few gym visits already!

[@johnallan4826]

I take your point on busy overnight ferries and sleepers in corridors, but compared to the overnight train or coach, a ferry is so much better, more space to have a beer, and a chance of a good breakfast, plenty areas to move about it. Time would be too short to get a cabin unless you are doing the full journey, very enjoyable though. Thanks Steve

[@steve-marsh]

You are spot on mate! Even with limited nighttime deck access, it's a treat to be able to stand outside in the fresh air (and believe me the air inside was anything but fresh!)

[@cindi7955]

You are real trooper and make the best of every situation. Would think those sleeping in the hallway would be breaking a fire rule if there was a fire that could be very bad. I'm with you only in the winter for nicer sailing.

[@cindyd8646]

Reminds me of the Alaska Marine Highway ferries in the summer....bedlam! But, oh, the lighthouses on your journey! Especially the one in Footdee. You didn't go to Lerwick to see Jimmy Perez? Oh, I forgot...he's not there anymore. Is the "new" Shetland been broadcast yet? Your videography of the sunrise is beautiful!

[@steve-marsh]

Haha the new one will be out soon, I'm just not sure about it without Jimmy you know!!!

[@angelikac6767]

Thank you for another entertaining video , your give me "itchy feet" - been inspired to go explore less traveled parts of my own corner of the world more

[@steve-marsh]

Go for it! :)

[@okeesmokee6658]

Wow - the timing on this could not have been better. We are taking the same ferry Sunday next - Aberdeen to Kirkwall. We are taking the shorter ferry to Scrabster on the return so we can drive back down. Thanks for taking us along on your adventures.

[@steve-marsh]

That is ABSOLUTELY the way to go! Enjoy it!

[@maryreid4273]

Look out for the spectacular Old Man of Hoy on your crossing from Stromness to Scrabster.

[@MarkJohnson-hw2xo]

In mid-September we’re doing that trip in reverse: from Scrabster to Stromness, Orkney for a couple days, then the overnight route (but with a cabin) from Kirkwall to Aberdeen. We’re bringing our rental car on this trip.

[@okeesmokee6658]

@@MarkJohnson-hw2xo Just finished our tour. Loved Orkney - very different than I had imagined - much more going on but still tranquil. The ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall got a little old - after dinner we didn't have much to do, but it was all still pretty good. The ferry from Stomness to Scrabster was quick, quiet, and peaceful - different ship layout and we were able to find a quiet place to relax. We then made the drive along the North Shore and then from Laxford Bridge down to Lairg - not what I was expecting. The scenery is spectacular, but the driving was like some sort of warped video game. Now in Edinburgh for the Tattoo and then to London and then home. Hope you enjoy your trip - we really had a good time.

[@walterfillingham]

The mv Hrossy (the horsy as we knew it working on the sister ship mv Hjaltland) there was a lot of rivalry between the two! I remember once during a period of bad weather we sailed as usually whilst the Horsy never sailed with the unusual outcome of the two ships being side by side in Aberdeen harbour… you should have heard the abuse being shouted between crew members on both vessel in Aberdeen Harbour! Lol

[@steve-marsh]

Haha I can believe it! Superb! Any would love to have seen the 2 ships docked next to each other!

[@davidrle23]

@@steve-marshhappened every other day during Covid however Aberdeen harbour is real difficult to find anywhere to take a decent photo.

[@SelfMade717]

That must have been a rare occurrence 😂. Its usually the Hjatland that now doesn't sail. Must have the Old Hrossey captain on it now 😉

[@barvdw]

I won't be asking which of the vessels is the better one, but are they very different?

[@SelfMade717]

@@barvdw both identical. The Hamnavoe is the 3rd 1 and that's different. There's cargo ships also.

[@maxwellleung6068]

I am definitely with you Steve, as a solo traveller most of the time , always much more enjoyable in Winter with quietness and calmness, LOVE all of your videos, icing on the cake to me is your charming Scottish accent ;)

[@steve-marsh]

Hey thanks very much! :)

[@EMB238]

Yes, winter travel is the best. Late October through March. Few crowds, local folks less stressed, accommodations reasonably priced, and holiday markets/processions/festivals are everywhere. 😊

[@maryreid4273]

@@EMB238 April, October and January are my least favourite months to leave the island - higher/choppier seas and more chances of storms - although we can get choppy seas any time it's more likely in the winter I'd say!

[@Newalks.]

Awe the memories of the Harbour Fry and a good fish supper. Love Orkney so much so Thanks Steve for all you put yersel through to bring us all you do. Legend 🙏💜

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers mate :)

[@elainehowell2836]

Thanks Steve for showing me around the ferry ⛴ round the shops and nice weather and early sunshine Thanks

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks once again for coming along Elaine!

[@craig.bryant]

Great video mate! I don’t think I’d fancy that party boat for 6 hours back with no cabin. Totally agree on the noise curfew although you’d expect people to use their common courtesy and intuition not to play music off their phone at 3am!!!

[@steve-marsh]

It's sad that you need to introduce these things at ALL, but that's the world we live in eh!

[@vivellasmum]

The joy of these ferry videos is that I can watch them again & it's like the first time! SO Steve.... when are you taking us to Fair isle & when are we trying the shortest flight again? 😉

[@keithwhite1478]

Oe of your best Steve. Photography was fantastic and some emotive scenes. Fish and chips looked good. When I was living in Machrihanish my favourite night time meal in the town was deep fried Haggis and very brown chips. Your return journey looked dreadful. Not to be repeated i high season. Thanks Steve.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Keith! I was actually tempted by haggis at the chippy in Kirkwall, but they only served really small slices of haggis there and I was hungry! Aye, one to be avoided in high season for me!

[@robertofraser101]

Great video Steve pity about folk sleeping on floors on the upside its good the service is busy the food was great deal and the sunrise shots etc were brilliant

[@Bo88y22]

I reckon Steve’s day in Orkney was filled by a flight from Kirkwall to Papa Westray . Then the worlds shortest scheduled flight from Papa Westray to Westray. 90 seconds…….. The back to Kirkwall. I remember him being on Papa Westray and watching the flight over to Westray.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha that may have been the PLAN!

[@walterfillingham]

There is an Orkney Island Council bus (operated by Stagecoach) which takes you from the town centre to Hatson Ferry terminal and it waits at the terminal to take passengers from the ferry into town. Service X10 and it actually starts and finishes in Stromness

[@steve-marsh]

Oh good to know! I just went for the easy option this time, not often I'm in a taxi :)

[@Bearleena]

We took that bus last week to the centre of Kirkwall and it worked out perfectly, a quid each, and a lovely driver who knew exactly which stop each passenger needed to get off at.

[@irenestrmnss4496]

Stromness is my name, but I am norwegian so it s spelled Strømnæss 😊 fun !!! So fun. Never knew. Hello from Norway 🙋‍♀️🌅

[@paulsurelynotsmith8179]

Another trip Steve Fish n chips yum great sunset that’s a wow the room looks ok swift trip to the pub looks busy round the pub area interesting stuff Steve

[@steve-marsh]

I was really looking forward to a quiet pint! Nae such luck! :D

[@petersborrelinniehove7939]

Thanks so much Steve! The times to & from Kirkwall always put me off. Thanks for showing me why! 😉

[@EGAVgames]

21:16 I AGREE THEY SHOULD HAVE A NOISE CURFEW I GUESS 12AM IF IT WAS A THING

[@colin.d]

When I was a kid in Aberdeen I remember the Orkney and Shetland ferries were all named after saints - St.Clair and St.Ninian were the biggest, then there was St.Magnus, St.Clement and St.Rognvald. I believe they also linked with Leith for some years.

[@beverlymcfarlane8681]

I sailed on the St Clair a few times. On one occasion, the only people still standing and not seasick, were me and somebody's labrador dog. I got my comeuppance though, after disembarking and getting on a bus, I was really nauseated, as the bus appeared to be rolling. Storms on the St Clair were legendary!

[@maryreid4273]

That would have been P and O Ferries? They stopped just before I moved here and now it's Northlink Ferries, well technically the full name is Serco Northlink Ferries.

[@colin.d]

@@maryreid4273 No, further back, talking 1960's and 1970's.

[@maryreid4273]

@@colin.d I was under the impression it was P and O then too, but I am maybe wrong (it's a few years since I spent one crossing reading about the Orkney and Shetland boats on a roughish crossing!).

[@colin.d]

@@maryreid4273 It was originally the North of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland Steam Navigation Company (or something similar) which became part of the P & O stable by the 1970's. I remember the yellow funnelled ships berthed in Aberdeen in the days before ro-ro ferries.

[@terencemills3512]

Hi Steve did exactly the same trip last year in May . My reasons were to research my dads posting on the Orkneys during WW2 . Took a bus to the other port then did a couple of tours in the day . Realy enjoyable trip . Keep up the excellent work .

[@steve-marsh]

Nice trip! I like the sound of that one!

[@martincannon1078]

As Captain Hamish Blair said when stationed in the Orneys during the war: "This bloody town's a bloody cuss no bloody trains no bloody bus and no one cares for bloody us in bloody Orkneys etc...

[@Bipstravel]

Enjoyed your trip on cruise, hope you show svalbard, northern most part of the world some day. Thanks, cheers

[@steve-marsh]

I am still trying to re-book it at a similar price to what I had to cancel, will get there one day!

[@Bipstravel]

It's very exotic and beautiful 😍 but probably not for Nordic winter , thanks so much 😊

[@Bearleena]

If you do go to Svalbard, you could get in touch with the resident KZbinr Cecilia and her partner Christoffer, I‘m sure they‘d be happy to see a fellow KZbinr.

[@WestonMike]

Another great and informative video Steve. It's nce to see that I'm not the only one that dashes about a "new" ship like a gleeful 12 year old school boy - exploring every corridor and deck, opening every door I can find. 😄

[@steve-marsh]

Haha every time mate :)

[@halcroj]

My great uncle used to farm Hatston, but the farm was requisitioned during WW2. I can't remember if it was an airfield or a seaplane depot, but something like that. He came down to Aberdeenshire and farmed there instead.

[@steve-marsh]

Interesting! Did requisitioning come with a payment or was it all for the war effort I wonder?

[@halcroj]

@@steve-marsh Yes I think there was a scheme for compensation, but how equitable it was I really don't know.

[@CarlPritchard-x2i]

Your videos are better than any TV shows I'm amazed you haven't been snapped up by the big media channels... but watch this space!

[@brewsterkits]

I like the sea even if there isn't any scenery, lovely weather too and a sunset!!😊😊!

[@steve-marsh]

It's always made me fancy a cargo ship voyage too!

[@myrabenson1603]

Another excellent video and well stamina is needed me thinks for the night ferry x

[@steve-marsh]

It sure was a challenge! Thanks :)

[@amycalhoun2939]

My husband and I really enjoy your videos. Looking forward to watching!

[@steve-marsh]

I really appreciate it! Hope you both have a lovely weekend!

[@amycalhoun2939]

@@steve-marsh same to you! :)

[@willywonka2614]

I always like watching your videos sitting here in Dublin. Your videos give me an idea of what to expect on ships.

[@AScottishOdyssey]

I worked on an archaeological dig on the Isle of Westray for a couple of months. I miss Orkney.

[@JK_Clark]

Aww, my heart sunk for you when you'd missed breakfast to catch the sunrise after not finding anywhere comfy to sit. But at least you were near the end of your journey home and not starting another day's travel.

[@FrankC321]

Demanding viewers wanted more Ocean Ferry and Steve delivered. I'd be ok too, not getting a state room on the ferry - either way. Instead, just hang out, catch some zzz's in a quiet place. Even sleep outside if they would allow it. I'm sold on that trip from Aberdeen to Kirkwall. Your local viewers are lucky!

[@steve-marsh]

It was a challenge, but I ALWAYS end up back on the Northlink because it's a great route - maybe in winter next time though !

[@JBFlytography]

I worked in Kirkwall for a short time last May. The ferry arrived late the bus that connects with the ferry had left. No phone signal for a taxi, so had to walk that road with all my gear, in the pitch black wasn’t all that fun. Cheers, Steve.

[@michaelhill7045]

Reminds me of when I slept under the stairs on an Esbjerg to Harwich ferry. Nice views of the oil rigs!

[@glenyshillary4195]

Ferry's are always busy in summer. We're travelling from Hull to Rotterdam next week on a busy crossing. Thanks for taking us along

[@steve-marsh]

Enjoy the trip! :)

[@ScottishT]

Brilliant video as always, love the kilts btw

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers, aye loving that too!

[@christopherfox735]

Had a great haddock & chips when I stayed at the Orkney Hotel in Kirkwall. Also, had great coffee at the Sunbeam coffee house.

[@steve-marsh]

Oh I've never tried either, will need to put that right!

[@christopherfox735]

It should be Sunbean coffee. Still great though.

[@louisajones3535]

That was an eye opener…thank for all you put yourself through! Love the sea shots especially. Thanks a lot

[@steve-marsh]

Hey you're very welcome!

[@MaxBarnish]

St Ola Hotel back bar, Albert Hotel Bothy bar are more old man sort of pubs. The busy one was the Skippers Bar owned by Kirkwall Hotel. If a little earlier that's nice for dinner or drinks

[@steve-marsh]

Ach I wish I'd known!

[@MrSCOTTtheSCOT]

Watching that sunrise is a bit of compensation for that overnight body boat.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha so true! I hadn't;t really intended to be out there at that time, but space onboard was surprisingly limited :D

[@jonclassical2024]

Ha Steve....I love the dedication to finding a wee-drink in the late evening...I can't believe you passed up where the youngsters were drinking...shame on you, you old man. So that 2 miles walk was very relaxing indeed, but screw that sleeping on the floor shit...I'm too old....after partying with the 20 somethings...i need a room and a proper bed...how would you like to Capt. her back into that harbor dockage...major props to that ships master...cheers Mister!

[@steve-marsh]

A tight squeeze eh! Haha I had this old man's pub in my head but the reality was just the fresh smell of vomit :D

[@chrisolsson321]

I remember the old days when it was The North of Scotland Orkney and Shetland Steam Packet Company, from Leith. The old St Ninian rolled and corkscrewed like a pig in a barrel going over Niagara Falls. Kersploosh every seventh wave, or so it seemed.. Cabins which had 'windows' (;lights, in seaman's language) looked like watching the window into a modern washing machine. I remember the creaking of the oak timbers in the cabins and the sight of the Skipper barfing over the Starboard bridge wing; and the seagulls fighting over the chunky bits in the water. Ah! Those were the days: when men were men - and Orcadian sheep were nervous. Shetland sheep just got used to it. But that's for another channel..

[@steve-marsh]

I must say that sounds WONDERFUL!

[@chrisolsson321]

So, i take it that your time in Orkney. Wink.

[@chrisolsson321]

Opos! Meant to say "your time in Orkney was not entirely ovine'.

[@scottie2636]

Hello Steve, great video as usual. Do you ever get lost on these excusions? I can't imagine going too far from my lodgings in a place I'd never been before, to go find a pub. How do you find your way back. It seems like you take many twists and turns. I'd be lost.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha I had time on my side, but it's difficult to get lost in Kirkwall, even in the dark :)

[@nathan9207]

Love the insight to these North Sea ferries. Thanks Steve.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Nathan!

[@KPP365]

Spent a full day in Kirkwall, The cathedral is awesome, The whole cruise was fantastic.

[@kathyhedges5064]

If you make it to Alaska you can take the Alaska Marine Highway, our ferry. People do put up their tents on the top deck to sleep.

[@pbsteamatspeed7683]

Another great video Steve, beautifully shot.

[@velvet111music]

You need to try the alternate trip from Scrabster to Stromness and visit the standing stones.Great quiet journey and loving walking

[@mrandrews3616]

I consider you as one of the great philosophers of our time.

[@kevinferguson8905]

I am relatively new to your videos Steve, but I really enjoy watching your trips. I am binge watching a lot of them at the moment. Interestingly, the electronic information sign seen in this video at 17:40 was built and tested in the west of County Clare in Ireland (very near the cliffs of Moher) in the factory that I work at, and I would likely have tested it. It doesn't show up too good on camera due to the visual scan rate, I hope it looked better in real life :) Keep up the great videos.

[@grunt22]

Another fantastic video. I didn't want it to end. The sunrise scenes were spectacular. I would love to do that journey and have always wanted to go to Orkney. Thank you

[@steve-marsh]

The weather was SO CALM that morning spectacular sight!

[@amazer747]

I think Steve wanted it to end and get to bed! Thanks for another great video.

[@jackharrison6771]

I missed this one, Nice looking ferry, and another great video - again. It always makes me laugh when people go on about those wind turbines. When painted grey and out at sea, they're hard to see, and even when ashore, they often merge with the landscape and we have to be very close before hearing them.

[@robertblechle6365]

Another fun video. Thanks for all your work. My son watched it also said when we go back to Scotland , and properly do Orkney and Shetland, we have to take a ferry. I think you are a grea advert for the Northlink. Cheers

[@steve-marsh]

Oh I hope you get a cabin though :) Hi to your boy!

[@lindashoemaker8940]

Mornin Steve nice ocean view leaving Aberdeen weather accommodating great chippy return don’t sleep in hallway someone might step on your head up all night with a beer 🍺 Stay safe see ya around 😘🌸🌺

[@steve-marsh]

Likely it would be me while focussed on the camera screen :D

[@IvermectinFTW]

Thank you for making this video Steve. It's clear from the excellent quality and attention to detail that a lot of time and effort went into it. I feel like I made that journey with you!

[@rabh6746]

Cracking journey out to Kirkwall Steve but that return journey looked like hell on earth! You can always tell a hardy Scot out on deck in a kilt and short sleeved t shirt and everyone else wrapped up to the nines😂

[@steve-marsh]

Haha so true! Aye, hell on earth is a good description!

[@kyleop1]

You really do produce some bloody good content mate, very enjoyable and entertaining - cheers!

[@novola1972]

Steve thank you for another video and greetings from Los Angeles !!!

[@steve-marsh]

Hey thanks so much!!!

[@mickclark427]

Hello Steve mick from Hull really enjoyed this episode hope you are very well and I will look forward to your next episode 😊😊

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers mate!

[@mickclark427]

You are very welcome mate 😀

[@hughrainbird8190]

Steve, talking of nightmarish journeys I once caught an overnight train from Glasgow Queen Street to Inverness to catch the first train to the Kyle of Lochalsh next morning. The Inverness train was packed with returning holidaymakers from the Costas. Apart from the straw donkeys and sombreros the main object of everyone seemed to be the first one to finish their duty frees. No sleep on that train!

[@steve-marsh]

Oh that sounds like a nightmare to me!

[@emmaradford4548]

Think I would prefer returning on the other Northlink ferry on the short Scrabster route …then catch the train… The things you endure Steve!

[@steve-marsh]

That's a good shout actually! Then you could also have the wee bus journey Kirkwall to Sromness!

[@d3091]

I live in orkney use northlink a lot

[@sjb1058]

look forward to the "real" video from Orkney, though enjoyed the sunset and sunrise on this one! the packed, unruly ferry reminded me of those in the Aegean--loud partying 24/7!! ugh... cheers!

[@steve-marsh]

Not the best experience eh! :D

[@PlanesTrainsEverything]

Wow, what a contrast in journeys!

[@steve-marsh]

You know the route well :)

[@BricktopsPigs]

Only found your channel today. Watched Ben Nevis,Bus Stop in Shetland and about 10 otĥers. Im the guy from Stonehaven-i left a comment on another Ferry vid. I despise those turbines in the sea.wish they were further off the coast-spoils my view at meal times as my kitchen window faces that way.

[@michaelgoode9555]

Westray and Papay are beautiful islands. I have a dream to live in Pierowall. I am of course guessing as to your intended adventure ...

[@6yjjk]

Regarding the crowding, have you ever thought about crossing the Atlantic on a freighter? It's definitely on my bucket list.

[@steve-marsh]

I'm always looking at them, but pricy affairs these days, and wouldn't want to do it without Alicja by my side. But 100% in my bucket too!

[@6yjjk]

@@steve-marshDefinitely something to do with your most special human. If I can find a girl who thinks it'd be a great honeymoon, I'll be set for life.