Orkney and Shetland Ferries
The Northern Isles are a bucket-list destination for van lifers. Getting there requires ferry travel.
Routes
| Route | Operator | Time | Van Cost (Summer) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scrabster to Stromness (Orkney) | NorthLink | 90 min | £80-120 |
| Aberdeen to Lerwick (Shetland) | NorthLink | 12-14 hours | £180-260 |
| Kirkwall to Lerwick | NorthLink | 6-8 hours | £80-130 |
| Gills Bay to St Margaret's Hope | Pentland Ferries | 60 min | £60-90 |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance (especially summer — slots fill up weeks ahead)
- Campervans are charged as "cars with trailer" or "motor caravans"
- NorthLink offers a 10% discount for solo driver (no passengers)
- Pentland Ferries are cheaper and shorter but only serve Orkney
Cabin vs Lounge
For overnight ferries to Shetland, a cabin is worth the extra cost (£50-80). You arrive rested. The lounge seating is basic.
Time Needed
- Orkney: minimum 3-4 days
- Shetland: minimum 5-7 days
- Both: 10-14 days
Conclusion
The Northern Isles ferry trip is expensive but unforgettable. Book early and allow enough time to explore properly.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
Route Planning Tips
- Use OS Maps for detailed UK mapping
- Download offline maps before heading out
- Check road conditions and closures
- Plan fuel stops in remote areas
- Book campsites in advance during summer
- Have a backup plan for bad weather
