Welcome to the Lerwick cruise port guide. Lerwick is the capital city of the Shetland Islands which are part of Scotland. Did you know Lerwick actually means “Muddy Bay”. This historical town was founded in the 17th century. In town Fort Charlotte, the Town Hall and Commercial Street make up the main highlights. but you can also visit Clickimin Broch, Shetland museum and archives and the Bod of Greminsta to get acquainted with the history of this lovely town. The archipelago of Shetland is known for its seabird cliffs, wildlife and dramatic scenery. You will find a variety of wildlife on the island and in its waters like seals and the famous native Shetland ponies. Shore excursions can take you on wildlife safaris or for a scenic ride on the island. You are also able to visit the interesting archeological sites from the Bronze and Iron age on the islands. Find out where your ship is going to dock in the Lerwick cruise port guide underneath.

Cruise port guide Lerwick – Shetland: dock or tender

Cruise ships can dock or tender when making Lerwick their port of call. Check where your ship will dock or tender on the following link: http://www.lerwick-harbour.co.uk/cruise-ships. Please find a small explanation about Lerwick’s cruise and tender dock underneath:

Lerwick tender dock: Victoria pier

Most ships will drop anchor and tender you to shore. The tender cruise dock is located at the Victoria pier. From here you will conveniently walk straight into town. At the dock you will find a taxi rank, public toilets and a wi-fi point. The old town of Lerwick is right in front of you as you walk off the pier. There is usually either a representative of the tourist information available at the dock, otherwise there is a tourist information office about two blocks from the tender cruise dock.

Lerwick cruise dock: Homsgarth Pier

Smaller cruise ships are able to dock at the Homsgarth Pier. This cruise dock is not located in the city center of Lerwick. The distance from the dock to the city center is about 1 mile (1,6 km) , so you might want to use transportation to visit it. The port of Lerwick offers a free shuttle service from the cruise dock into town and visa versa. The drop off location is at the waterfront in the old town. Find its exact location marked in the map above. You will find a supermarket and large shopping center nearby your cruise dock.

Shetland tourist information

There is a tourist information center not far from the tender cruise dock. The tourist information here is referred to as the VisitScotland Lerwick iCentre. This iCentre offers great information on what to see and do. They also have specific hand out guides for cruise passengers. Additionally you can also book tours, activities and guided walks here. Visit their office to book or call 01595693434. The Lerwich iCentre is located at the Market Cross in the centre of Lerwick. Find its location in the map above.

Taxis in Lerwick

You will find a taxi rank at both cruise docks. There are standard and 7 seater taxis available. Agree upon a price before you step into the taxi.

Hikes around Lerwick

Lerwick offers great hikes which are known for their beautiful coastline and seabird colonies. Simply follow Twageos Road in a southern direction. This path along the coastline takes you to viewpoint The Knab , Waari Geo and The Sletts which are well known places to spot birds and seals. See the beginning of the hike marked in the map above.

Local transportation

Lerwick has a local transportation system that you can use to explore the island. Bus time tables are available at the tourist information center (a.k.a. Lerwich iCentre) and at the bus station (Viking bus station). We have marked the bus station for you in the map above. Bus fares range from 1 to 4 pounds. You can purchase a top up card on the bus. Children up to 5 years old travel for free. Children between 5 and 16 years old travel with 50% discount. You can find the bus schedules on the following link: http://www.zettrans.org.uk/bus/BusTimetables.asp

Car rental Lerwick

If you wish to venture out on your own and rent a car it is wise to pre-arrange this as cars are limited. If you pre-arrange it they can even bring it to the cruise dock for you. You can rent your car through Star-Rent-a-Car or one of the other car rentals in Lerwick. Generally car rentals offer vehicles ranging from regular 3 doors to 17 seater busses. Find the car rental location marked in the map above.

Bicycle rental Lerwick

The Community Bike Project offers the ability to rent a bike while you are there. See their location marked in the map above.

Wi-fi in port

Lerwick offers plenty of places for free wi-fi. The tender dock actually offers its own wi-fi spot. You can also find it at the Shetland Library, at the tourist information, one of the many restaurants or at the Shetland Museum and Archives.