9.0 hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Lerwick for around 9.0 hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.

Tours & Experiences in Lerwick

16 experiences available — book through our trusted partners

Shetland South Mainland Tour St Ninian Isle and Jarlshof
Shetland South Mainland Tour St Ninian Isle and Jarlshof
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
Discover the captivating South Mainland of Shetland, where history and nature intertwine. Explore the pristine St Ninian's Isle, famous for its Pictish silver horde, and stroll along its stunning 500m long tombolo. Witness seals basking on secluded beaches and marvel at the impressive Sumburgh Head lighthouse, nestled within a seabird sanctuary. Uncover 5000 years of history at the ancient Jarlshof site, before enjoying a warm cup of tea and local crafts in Hoswick. Optional lunch or afternoon tea can be arranged for your delight. - Visit St Ninian's Isle and its remarkable tombolo - Explore the Sumburgh Head RSPB Reserve and lighthouse - Discover 5000 years of history at Jarlshof - Enjoy tea and local shopping in the village of Hoswick
Free cancellation VIATOR
4 Hours Rugged Northern Exposure Private Guided Tour from Lerwick
4 Hours Rugged Northern Exposure Private Guided Tour from Lerwick
★★★★★ 5.0 (7 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Join us for a private guided tour to Shetland's rugged & dramatic North Mainland. Explore Northmavine's history at Tangwick Haa Museum, admire the spectacular Eshaness Cliffs and visit the pretty village of Hillswick. Along the way we will see the finest scenery Shetland has to offer, it is truly breath-taking.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Cliffs and Rocks of the North
Cliffs and Rocks of the North
★★★★★ 5.0 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
With three fault lines running through the isles, the Geology of Shetland is some of the most diverse in Europe and is the reason why Shetland currently holds UNESCO Geopark Status. We drive to the North West mainland of Shetland where the oldest rocks in Shetland, Lewisian Gneiss at 2.9 billion years old, can be found. On our way North we witness fantastic cliff scenery and sea stacks shaped by the full force of the Atlantic. We arrive at Shetland’s volcano – Eshaness – active 390 million years ago. After a short photo stop, we return South, taking in the view of Shetland’s highest point, the red granite of Ronas Hill, 450m high and 450 million years old. We stop at Tangwick Haa Museum, built in the late 17th century as the home of the laird and where you can browse the exhibits to learn more of the history of Northmavine and have an opportunity to browse some local crafts. We return South via Brae for lunch at Frankie’s Fish and Chip shop before heading back to Lerwick
Free cancellation VIATOR
Shetland TV Locations Private Full Day Tour
Shetland TV Locations Private Full Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (4 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
With nine series, Shetland has put Shetland on the map. Our brand new Shetland Locations Tour is a great way to see the sights you've seen on the small screen up close. Plus, you'll get to see the best of our beautiful island home along the way.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Half Day Tour in Shetland South Mainland
Private Half Day Tour in Shetland South Mainland
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 4.5h
Based on the hit Puffins & Ponies tour, the Best of Shetland's South Mainland lets you experience the wonders of the island home once the puffins have flown south for winter. Join us for a private guided tour to Shetland's scenic south Mainland. Departing Lerwick we visit the island's former capital, Scalloway, before heading to Sumburgh at the southern tip of the islands. Here you'll visit the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof before concluding your tour with a visit to Sumburgh Head.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer
Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer
★★★★★ 5.0 (3 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Often overlooked by tourists, the west side of the Shetland Mainland (known as the Wastside locally) is a haven of unspoilt beauty. Never visited by large tour groups or shore excursions, join us to discover some of Shetland's most scenic spots. During your private guided tour, you'll pass through some of Shetland's most spectacular scenery, visit our most important Neolithic site- Stanydale Temple- and stop off at an authentic Cake Fridge.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Full Day Historic Shetland Tour
Private Full Day Historic Shetland Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (2 reviews) ⏱️ 8.0h
With some of the richest archaeological sites in the British Isles, Shetland is a history lovers' paradise. From prehistoric settlements to tales of the Viking-era and the dowry that gifted Shetland from Norway to Scotland, our Shetland history tour will take you on a journey through millennia as we travel the length and breadth of the Shetland Mainland.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Departure Airport Transfer - Lerwick to Sumburgh Airport (LSI)
Departure Airport Transfer - Lerwick to Sumburgh Airport (LSI)
★★★★★ 5.0 (1 reviews) ⏱️ 0.5h
Our services can be tailored to suit your needs and are available at times to suit you. Our varied fleet comprises of vehicles from 7 seats to 57 seats, so we can accommodate a wide range of group sizes from couples & families to school & business groups and sports teams.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland
Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland
★★★★★ 4.9 (49 reviews) ⏱️ 4.5h
Join us for a private guided tour to Shetland's scenic south Mainland. Departing Lerwick we visit the island's former capital, Scalloway, before heading to Sumburgh at the southern tip of the islands. Here we visit the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof before concluding our tour with a visit to Sumburgh Head.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Full-Day Private City Tour in Lerwick
Full-Day Private City Tour in Lerwick
★★★★★ 4.9 (40 reviews) ⏱️ 6.5h
Lerwick is the main town and port of the Shetland Islands. On our first stop we will visit the incredible Clickimin Broch. After seeing this remarkable site, we will drive back to the centre and spend some time visiting some of the main attractions in this amazing village: Fort Charlotte- Hay´s Dock is a beautifully restored historic dock. Visit the Shetland Museum and Archives where the galleries are split into different zones. Enjoy the picturesquely grouped house and stores built on lodberry. Enjoy the views over Victoria Pier. You will visit the Scalloway area, until 1708 it was the capital of Shetland Island but now it is a fishing port, really worth a visit, on your way to Scalloway you can have a quick look some famous ponies of Shetland PLEASE NOTE: Walking is involved MISSING YOU ALREADY!!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Ponies Express Private Tour to Scalloway
Ponies Express Private Tour to Scalloway
★★★★★ 4.6 (5 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
Travel to Scalloway the ancient capital where you will stop at Carol’s Ponies, you have a chance to meet, learn about and photograph these wonderful animals. Originating in Shetland the breed was a packing pony and are now found all over the world, used as popular riding ponies for children and a companion to horses. Carol the stud owner will explain all in her talk about these beautiful creatures, remember they have teeth and may assume fingers for carrots! So please do not feed the ponies.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Round Trip Airport Transfer - Sumburgh Airport (LSI) to Lerwick
Round Trip Airport Transfer - Sumburgh Airport (LSI) to Lerwick
⏱️ 0.5h
Our services can be tailored to suit your needs and are available at times to suit you. Our varied fleet comprises of vehicles from 7 seats to 57 seats, so we can accommodate a wide range of group sizes from couples & families to school & business groups and sports teams.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Scalloway & Shetland Ponies Private Shore Tour
Scalloway & Shetland Ponies Private Shore Tour
⏱️ 5.0h
Explore the charming town of Lerwick and the scenic village of Scalloway on this private shore tour, where history, culture, and nature come together. Visit the famous Shetland Ponies at Carol’s Ponies, discover the local history at Scalloway Museum, and enjoy breathtaking viewpoints along the way. Your knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating stories about Shetland’s past, including its WWII history, Norse heritage, and maritime traditions.
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Shetland at War Half Day Private Tour
Shetland at War Half Day Private Tour
⏱️ 5.5h
Join military historian and professional archaeologist Chris Dyer, a Shetland resident for over twenty years, to explore Shetland’s fascinating wartime heritage on our brand new Shetland at War tour. We will visit astoundingly well-preserved military fortifications within a range of spectacular, beautiful landscapes. During the twentieth century, Shetland played a crucially important role in the defence of Britain during both World Wars due to its strategic military location on the northern periphery of Britain and Europe. Enemy shipping and submarines favoured the North Sea as their preferred passage to the North Atlantic Ocean. Shetland was therefore an important base for the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, who patrolled the surrounding waters, and for the associated military radar stations, scanning the skies and seas.
VIATOR
Lerwick Shetland Private Walking Tour Experience
Lerwick Shetland Private Walking Tour Experience
⏱️ 3.0h
Explore Lerwick, the vibrant capital of Shetland, on this guided walking tour that unveils the town's rich maritime history. Start at the bustling harbour and wander past historic lodberries, including the iconic location from the detective series 'Shetland'. Ascend to the highest point for panoramic views, then delve into the Lerwick Lanes, a testament to the town's fishing heritage since the 1700s. Visit the impressive Town Hall and Fort Charlotte, both steeped in history, before concluding your journey at the Lerwick Museum to further immerse yourself in the local culture and history. - Discover Lerwick’s history from the harbour to the Lerwick Lanes - Visit key landmarks including the Town Hall and Fort Charlotte - Enjoy insights into Shetland's maritime heritage from an expert guide - Conclude your tour with free time at the Lerwick Museum to explore further
Free cancellation VIATOR
Shetland South Mainland Scenic & Historical Private Shore Tour
Shetland South Mainland Scenic & Historical Private Shore Tour
⏱️ 5.5h
This comprehensive private shore tour is perfect for those with one day in Shetland, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and wildlife. Explore St. Ninian’s Isle, see seal colonies at Rerwick Beach, and visit the restored Shetland Crofthouse for a glimpse into past life. Discover the archaeological site of Jarlshof and enjoy the seabird cliffs at Sumburgh Head. Finish with a visit to the charming village of Hoswick for local knitwear and refreshments. A perfect blend of Shetland’s natural beauty, culture, and history.
VIATOR

When to Visit Lerwick

Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes

Spring Season
Mar – May
67,652 estimated passengers across 43 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.
Summer Season
Jun – Aug
181,412 estimated passengers across 93 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
63,116 estimated passengers across 33 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.

Cruise Lines Visiting Lerwick

12 cruise lines. View full breakdown →

Viking Cruises Cruises (59) Holland America Cruises (56) Princess Cruises Cruises (36) MSC Cruises Cruises (22) AIDA Cruises Cruises (22) Oceania Cruises Cruises (15) Ambassador Cruise Line Cruises (13) Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Cruises (8) HX Expeditions Cruises (7) Ponant Cruises Cruises (6) Celebrity Cruises Cruises (6) Saga Cruises Cruises (5)

Ships Arriving Soon

Next scheduled visits to Lerwick

Mon 14 Sep
Viking Mira
Viking Cruises Cruises
Wed 16 Sep
Oceania Insignia
Oceania Cruises Cruises
07:00 – 16:00
Thu 17 Sep
Viking Saturn
Viking Cruises Cruises
Sun 20 Sep
MS Hamburg
Small Cruise Lines Cruises
08:00 – 13:00
Mon 21 Sep
Viking Jupiter
Viking Cruises Cruises
Thu 8 Oct
AIDAsol
AIDA Cruises Cruises
08:00 – 18:00

View all scheduled visits →

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