Getting to Rousay - relax, and enjoy your journey to our unique island

The Orkney Islands as a whole are incredibly rich in natural beauty and ancient history, resulting in a holiday experience like no other.

Let Rousay be the number one destination for your trip to Orkney. Once you have arrived on the Mainland of Orkney, you are only a 20-minute boat journey from this beautiful island. The ferry departs the Mainland of Orkney at regular intervals during the day, seven days a week. The ferry departs from Tingwall (near the village of Evie) on the Mainland of Orkney, which is approximately 20 minutes from both main towns, Kirkwall and Stromness, and so is very accessible, with a regular public bus service meeting most of the sailings.

The M.V. Eynhallow ferry to Rousay can take both passengers (up to 95) and vehicles (up to 10), and features a passenger lounge, drinks machine, and toilet facilities. If you are taking your vehicle to Rousay, it is advisable to book your place at Tingwall Booking Office - book online at www.orkneyferries.co.uk or telephone 01856 751 360. You are not normally required to book passenger places, unless travelling in an exceptionally large group.

You are also welcome to park your vehicle in the FREE car park at Tingwall Ferry Terminal. This is an excellent option if you are planning on walking or cycling around the island, or if you are taking a guided tour.

See below for the M.V. Eynhallow's sailing timetable between Rousay and Tingwall, showing departure times. Please ensure that you arrive at the Ferry Terminal at least 15 minutes before your departure time.

M.V. Eynhallow Sailing Timetable: Tingwall & Rousay

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday*
Rousay 0745 0745 0745 0745 0745 0745 ----
Tingwall 0820 0820 0820 0820 0820 0840 ----
Rousay 1005 1005 1005 1005 1005 1005 1010
Tingwall 1040 1040 1040 1040 1040 1040 1045
Rousay 1115 1115 1115 1115 1115 1115 1120
Tingwall 1150 1150 1240 1150 1150 1150 1155
Tingwall 1445 1445 1445 1445 1445 1445 1445
Rousay 1520 1520 1520 1520 1520 1520 1520
Tingwall 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605 1605
Rousay 1730 1730 1730 1730 1730 1730 1730
Tingwall 1800 1800 1800 1800 1800 1800 1800


*This timetable operates throughout the year, except that there are reduced Sunday sailings throughout the winter months (i.e. from mid-September until May the following year). Please always check the timetable with Orkney Ferries before sailing.


Cost of Getting to Rousay: Amazing value for money!

A trip to Rousay offers amazing value for money, as once you have paid for your boat fare, you can enjoy most of Rousay without any further costs - from visiting the many archaeological sites, to enjoying the breathtaking scenery, refreshing walks and wonderful nature trails, these are all completely FREE for everyone.

A detailed list of prices, including discounted ticket options, are available from our the 'Getting Here' page on our sister site, www.AroundRousay.co.uk
Single and return journeys can be purchased either at Tingwall Booking Office, or on-board the M.V. Eynhallow ferry.