How rough are the seas around the Orkney and Shetland islands in early May? I am considering a ferry trip then but I don't have the best "sea legs" at all.
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
You can have gorgeous days at that time of year and blustery ones on Orkney. My parents and my sister and her husband both made separate trips in May early June. I visited in early July. The wonderful thing about May and June on Orkney is that it is when many of the migrating birds visit. Which ferry to Orkney are you thinking about? I've taken the Thurso ferry and it is a good-sized ship. The route takes you past The Old Man of Hoy and into Stromness on the Mainland. The John O'Groats ferry is a passenger only ferry that runs in the summer. There is another ferry out of Gills Bay. No matter what you are crossing the Pentland Firth which has notorious tidal races. Personally, I think it's worth the risk. Take the shorter route if you are worried. Check out this website for great info Orkney and its history and culture. Www.orkneyjar.com The regular tourist site is good too. You will get lovely long days in May, but it can be cool. My mom swore by her L.L.Bean lined jeans! Pam
Posted by
OP
Bellingham, WA, USA
94 posts
It's Smyril line out of Denmark that's offering a one-time sailing to Orkney, Sheltland and Faroes round trip out of Denmark. Thanks for the information
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
Well, that would be the North Sea then. ;). It would be a much longer trip and the weather governed by a broader area. It sound great! Pam