Ferry traffic Aberdeen

NorthLink Ferries (also referred to as Serco NorthLink Ferries) operates a lifeline of passenger and vehicle ferry service between Aberdeen and the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland. Northlink took over the route from P&O in 1999. Since July 2012, it has been operated by international services company Serco.

Between 2013 and 2023, passenger numbers to Shetland have risen from 116,800 to 141,636 - 21% increase. Car numbers have increased by 54%. For Orkney, passenger numbers have remained broadly stable with a 9% increase in cars. Both services saw a marked reduction during the restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, but have since recovered.

Northlink also operate a service for commercial vehicles which has seen a 13% increase from Aberdeen to Shetland and 6% increase to Orkney. This is at full capacity for many sailings.

Work is currently in preparation to build new 140m long freight flex ferries will replace the Helliar and Hildasay on the service operated by Serco NorthLink Ferries. They will provide extra freight capacity and capability for quicker crossings on the routes, and will have the flexibility to allow space for up to 200 passengers to travel at peak periods.

Work is underway to develop cold ironing technology to allow vessels to use mains electricity when in port, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve local air quality.