The semi-private tour of Orkney and Kirkwall promises an intimate glimpse into the region’s rich UNESCO-listed heritage. Travelers can explore iconic sites like the Stones of Stenness and Ring of Brodgar, alongside historical landmarks such as the Italian Chapel and St. Magnus Cathedral. Led by knowledgeable guides, the small group experience ensures personalized attention. With a flexible schedule that accommodates cruise ship arrivals, this tour offers a convenient and insightful way to uncover Orkney’s captivating past. Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of the islands’ ancient culture or simply want to learn about their natural beauty, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- This semi-private tour offers visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Orkney, including Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, and Broch of Gurness.
- The tour also includes the Italian Chapel and St. Magnus Cathedral, known as the "light in the North," with a maximum group size of 20 for an intimate experience.
- The tour is accessible to most travelers, but not recommended for pregnant women or those in wheelchairs due to the walking requirements.
- Positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and comprehensive site visits, with some communication and timing issues noted by customers.
- The tour is priced at $267.19, with a lowest price guarantee and 29 five-star reviews, and features adjustable start times based on cruise schedules for flexibility.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The semi-private tour of Orkney and Kirkwall allows visitors to explore the region’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Broch of Gurness.
The tour also includes a visit to the Italian Chapel and St. Magnus Cathedral, the "light in the North."
With a maximum group size of 20 people, this tour offers a more intimate experience.
Though walking is involved, the tour is accessible to most travelers, except for pregnant women and those in wheelchairs.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and comprehensive site visits, though some note communication and timing issues.
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Tour Logistics
The tour meets at the Kirkwall Pier, located on Harbour Street in Kirkwall, KW15 1HU, UK.
The tour starts at 9:00 AM, but the times are adjustable based on the cruise schedule.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 people.
Participants should expect some walking involvement during the tour.
Included Experiences
Admission tickets are included for several of the tour’s key sites, providing visitors convenient access to the UNESCO World Heritage destinations.
Travelers will explore the Stones of Stenness, dating back to 3100 BC, as well as the iconic Ring of Brodgar, a circular late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age stone ring.
The Broch of Gurness, an Iron Age broch village, offers a glimpse into ancient Orcadian life. Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Italian Chapel, the second most visited site, and St. Magnus Cathedral, the heart of Kirkwall, known as the "light in the North."
While gratuities aren’t included, the tour experience aims to be comprehensive and accessible to most travelers.
Accessibility Information
This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to the walking involved. The tour is also not wheelchair accessible.
However, most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The sites visited may not be fully accessible for those with limited mobility, as some walking is required.
Visitors should assess their own physical capabilities before booking. While the tour may not be suitable for everyone, the operator strives to accommodate guests’ needs as much as possible.
It’s important to consider accessibility requirements when deciding if this tour is the right fit.
Customer Feedback
Customers have provided largely positive feedback on this semi-private tour of Orkney and Kirkwall. Highlights include the knowledgeable guides and the comprehensive site visits that cover extensive ground not available on typical bus tours. Reviewers praise the excellent service and the opportunity to see unique historical sites like the Stones of Stenness and the Italian Chapel. However, some customers have noted communication and timing issues with the guides and drivers. Recommendations include bringing snacks, as there’s no scheduled lunch break.
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable guides | Communication issues |
| Comprehensive site visits | Timing problems |
| Excellent service | No lunch break |
| Unique historical sites |
Pricing and Booking
Priced at $267.19, this semi-private tour of Orkney and Kirkwall is operated by Top Private Tours UK.
The tour features a lowest price guarantee and has received an impressive 29 five-star reviews.
Key booking details include:
- The tour is adjustable based on cruise ship schedules, providing flexibility.
- Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, ensuring timely communication.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, offering convenience.
With a range of positive customer feedback, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and the historic city of Kirkwall.
Meeting Point and Start Time
The meeting point for this semi-private tour of Orkney and Kirkwall is at the Kirkwall Pier, located on Harbour Street in Kirkwall, KW15 1HU, UK.
The tour starts at 9:00 AM, but the times are adjustable based on the cruise schedule. Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
This allows for flexibility in planning the day. The tour covers a range of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other notable landmarks, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the area.
Adjustable Schedule Options
The tour’s start time is adjustable based on the cruise schedule, allowing for a flexible itinerary that caters to participants’ needs.
This ensures that the tour can be tailored to accommodate different arrival and departure times, providing a seamless experience for those joining from cruise ships.
The tour operators offer the following:
- Customized start times to align with cruise schedules.
- Flexible itinerary adaptations to ensure visitors can maximize their time.
- Coordination with cruise lines to ensure a smooth transition from ship to tour.
This level of adaptability sets this tour apart, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a personalized Orkney and Kirkwall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide?
While customers can’t request a specific tour guide, they can provide feedback on guides after the tour. The tour operator give you a knowledgeable, professional guide for each outing.
Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage Size?
The tour doesn’t appear to have any specific restrictions on luggage size. Most travelers can participate, but pregnant women shouldn’t book this tour. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
Is There an Opportunity for Shopping During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specifically include shopping time, but there may be opportunities to explore local shops and markets during free time at certain sites. Guests can check with the tour guides for any recommendations or suggestions.
Are Food and Drinks Available for Purchase on the Tour?
According to the tour overview, there is no scheduled lunch break. However, it’s recommended for travelers to bring their own snacks, as options to purchase food and drinks during the tour may be limited.
Can I Take Photos at the Historical Sites?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos at the historical sites on this tour, though some restrictions may apply. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific photo policies at each location.
Recap
The Semi Private Tour of Orkney and Kirkwall provides an intimate and insightful exploration of the region’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historical landmarks. Travelers can expect personalized experiences led by knowledgeable guides, with a flexible schedule to accommodate cruise itineraries. This tour offers a convenient and immersive way to discover Orkney’s rich cultural heritage in a small-group setting.