I am planning an extended Scotland trip for Spring, but only want a rental car for the Orkney Islands. Any recommended company to pick up and return from Kirkwall? To book ahead, or, as it is off season, just to organize once arrived? (Weather may dictate my enthusiasm for driving on the other side).
Posted by
Mountains of S. Oregon
976 posts
Orkney Car Hire has a near monopoly, and are reasonably priced. They don't accept reservation for 2026 until Jan 1. I'd suggest a reservation rather than gamble. I'm pretty sure you pay at the counter, so cancellation/changes are not an issue. I don't believe you can waive the CDW, but it's not the typical outrageous amount. Also, you get a free second driver. Lastly, they have a counter at the airport that's open when flights arrive and an in-town garage for ferry arrivals.
Posted by
OP
Ontario, Canada
4686 posts
Thank you. This is very helpful. At this point, I am thinking to arrive on the Aberdeen-Orkney ferry as a walk-on passenger, so in-town pick-up the next day works best. I'll make a note to check it out after Jan 1.
Posted by
Lincolnshire, UK
2773 posts
There is also W R Tullock & Sons who are another local company based in Kirkwall.
It is definitley worth booking well in advance, especially if there is a cruise ship planning to dock at Kirkwall. This year the first arrival was 1st April. (On a day when one of the larger cruise ships arrive, all the car hires will be fully booked by passengers wanting to hire a car.) .)
Posted by
OP
Ontario, Canada
4686 posts
Thanks for the alternate suggestion.
I can't find any cruiseships scheduled for my April dates, but do tend to book early.
Posted by
Somerville, MA
748 posts
What a fantastic set of responses. While I have no immediate plans to go there, I had wondered about this same question. Much appreciated!