Tips for Travelling Between Papa Westray and the Mainland

There are limited transportation options on Papa Westray, so planning your journeys between the island and mainland Orkney takes some strategy. This guide provides tips to help you travel smoothly between the island and the mainland. From booking ferries to timing your airport shuttle, we’ll cover how to get to Papa Westray and back with ease.

Planning Your Trip

Check ferry and flight schedules in advance - Services run on limited schedules, so plan your outbound and return journeys beforehand. Flights can take as little 15 minutes, while the ferry takes over 2 hours or more.
Book early - Ferry crossings and flights can fill up quickly during peak periods. Reserve your tickets early, especially in summer.
Have a Plan B - Be ready for delays or cancellations of flights and ferries due to bad weather. Have a backup plan to rebook travel. Allow plenty of time for onward connections, especially when travelling by ferry which can be delayed by cargo operations.

Travelling by Ferry

Check routes - Foot passengers can connect to Kirkwall through daily boats to neighbouring Westray and onward ferries to the town but the journey takes several hours. Car ferries from Papa Westray operate on Tuesdays and Fridays. However, Tuesday boats are combined with the North Ronaldsay route. Friday boats are quicker but can be delayed if there is a lot of cargo to load or unload.
Arrive on time - Get to the pier at least 15 minutes before departure - boarding may start 10 minutes before leaving.
Dress sensibly - Even on sunny days, it can get chilly out on the open deck during the crossing. Bring jackets and scarves.
Carry motion sickness medicine - The ferry crossing can get choppy and rocky. If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions. Ginger sweets or motion sickness bands can help.

Flying Between Islands

Weigh luggage - Loganair has a strict luggage allowance of 15 kg for checked bags on these inter-island flights. Pack light.
Get to the airport early - Walking to Papa Westray's airport can take longer than you imagine. Be there at least 15 minutes before your flight to check-in and get your luggage weighed.
Dress for windy weather - It can be extremely blustery outside on the tarmac at both island airports. Tie back long hair and secure hats.
Check-in again at Kirkwall - You'll need to go through security and check-in again for flights leaving Kirkwall for mainland UK airports.

Staying Overnight on Papa Westray

If you plan to stay on the island overnight before returning to ainland Orkney, book accommodation well in advance. There are only a couple of options on Papa Westray, including the Beltane House Hostel. Alternatively, bring a tent or book one of the island's camping 'pöds' for a true island camping experience.

Driving to Papa Westray

Cars are allowed on the island and can be taken via the twice-weekly ferry service. This is not a ro-ro service - vehicles are craned on and off. If you live on the island, it’s best to buy a car from mainland Orkney or further afield. Be prepared to visit dealers all over Scotland and the borders region to find the model you want, such as used car dealers in Newcastle or Edinburgh.

With some advance planning and preparation, the journey between Papa Westray and the mainland can be smooth and enjoyable, showcasing the best of Orkney island life. Make the ferry crossing or flight part of your island adventure in northern Scotland.