Cruise stop in Invergorden Scotland

You might need to look at Inverness for car hire. There used to be a company in Invergordon who would rent to cruise ship passengers but I believe they decided it was not worth their while. In any case I'd suggest that the google itinerary you've shared is wildly optimistic in its timings. Assuming you are coming to Scotland in the 'season' i.e between Easter and the end of September you will find traffic heavy on that route, that follows part of the so called North Coast 500. The google time (assuming low traffic) is simply that - driving time - and doesn't allow any time for sightseeing, walks, photos, lunch etc. If you only have 1 day then I'd suggest taking an organised excursion instead.

Have a look at Undiscovered Scotland's driving tours. Perhaps one of these routes could be modified to fit the time you have available. https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/ustours/index.html. We modified the Gairloch Poolewe route. Did a few small walks, enjoyed the scenery.

Walkhighlands might be able to help you find walks within a reasonable driving distance to Invergorden. The site is a wonderful resource and the map is interactive. https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/

Good luck with your planning.

Invergordon is a small town.

There used to a car rental place called Ken's Garage. They closed for rentals at the end of the 2022 season. The nearest rentals AFAIK are now in Inverness, an hour south of the port.

Assuming you can secure a rental (where an Inverness company will collect and deliver from the port) given the sort of roads for most of that route it is almost a foolhardy route in a cruise day which will probably be about 8 hours or less. These are mainly single track roads where your speed will be low, especially if this is in summertime. Under 5 hours is highly optimistic. If a road is closed due to an Road Traffic Accident you have nowhere to divert to. Then try to add on a hike somewhere is a recipe for missing the ship. Even the good two lane road south of Ullapool is not one for high speed, or where you can assume you can overtake at will. If I was going to do a walk anywhere on that route (apart from a comfort stop in Ullapool with a short town stroll) it would be at the Shin Falls (Invershin) and/or the Corrieshalloch Gorge, at Braemore Junction south of Ullapool. The Ferrycroft Visitor Centre at Lairg is another suggested stop.

If you miss the ship due to getting caught somewhere you are driving to Thurso for the next morning's ferry to Orkney.

Thank you everyone for your help and knowledge, really appreciate it!
Would you know if there are any ride sharing or taxis in Invergordon?

Also, any recommendations on food while in or near Invergordon?

There are a number of taxi companies-
https://www.scotlandtaxitours.com/
https://www.highland-explore.com/invergordon-port-private-tours
https://www.highland.taxi/?fbclid=IwAR19oiWvd37l2XC1fcr4VLQUlwrhZudJQ-fH_ltSeKvp9FEG9OLq6ipm3C8

to name three, there are other smaller ones as well.

The top two also show what they think is suitable travelling distance from the port, and also offer what to me are good itineraries at quite reasonable prices,

No idea if ride share works up there.

Thank you for the information, very helpful!