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Port of Kirkwall

GBKWL🇬🇧United Kingdom

Port Location

About Port of Kirkwall

Also known as: Kirkwall Ferry Port, Kirkwall Harbour

This port serves as a key transport hub for the Orkney Islands, located north of mainland Scotland. It handles ferries connecting to various locations and is a stopping point for cruise ships. The harbor offers good shelter.

Background
Kirkwall is the largest town in Orkney, an archipelago to the north of mainland Scotland. First mentioned in the Orkneyinga saga, it is today the location of the headquarters of the Orkney Islands Council and a transport hub with ferries to many locations. It is the centre of the St Magnus International Festival and is also a popular stopping off point for cruise ships. St Magnus Cathedral stands at the heart of the town.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
5ft
Tidal Range
2ft
Elevation
1m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Unknown
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Mobile
Drydock
None
Repair Code
C

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
32440 →
GeoNames ID
9828273 →
Wikidata
Q208329 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Seamark Type
harbour

Identification

UN/LOCODE
GBKWL
Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Time Zone
UTC+0
Feature Type
PRT (Port)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Good

Region

Subdivision
GB-ORK
Area
UK Coast & Atlantic
Sub-area
North Sea
Latitude
58.9871°
Longitude
-2.9591°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Kirkwall?+
The approach to Kirkwall is supported by 1 navigation aid within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Wick North Pier Lighthouse at 33.1 NM to the S. Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Kirkwall on?+
The Port of Kirkwall is situated on the North Sea in GB. The area falls within the subarctic climate zone with cold winters and potential ice conditions, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Kirkwall?+
You can track vessels near Kirkwall (GBKWL) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for GBKWL on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Kirkwall?+
The Port of Kirkwall operates in the UTC+0 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.