The Shetland Hop on Hop off Bus Tour from Lerwick is a captivating way to discover the rugged beauty and cultural tapestry of the Shetland Islands. Travelers can enjoy the scenic landscapes, spotting wildlife like seals and Shetland ponies along the way, while learning about the region’s rich heritage from the knowledgeable drivers. With unlimited travel on the selected date, this tour offers flexibility and convenience. However, potential long wait times and limited Sunday services are factors to consider when planning the perfect Shetland adventure. Delving deeper into the details of this unique experience could uncover even more enticing reasons to embark on this journey.
This experience made our list of the Best Tours In Shetland Islands.
About Your Stay
- The Shetland Hop on Hop off Bus Tour departs from Lerwick and operates for 1.5 hours, with a capacity of 39 travelers.
- The tour provides unlimited travel on the selected date with informative commentary and covers scenic beauty and wildlife.
- Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons like cruise arrivals, to avoid long wait times between pickups.
- The tour is accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and service animals, ensuring a comfortable experience.
- Travelers should plan their visits around the operating hours of local attractions and consider alternative local bus options for greater convenience.
Tour Overview
The Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Shetland Islands in Scotland.
Departing from Lerwick, the tour operates for 1.5 hours, covering the island with a maximum capacity of 39 travelers.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as allowing service animals.
Travelers can enjoy unlimited travel on the selected date, with informative commentary from the bus driver and occasional photo stops.
The tour returns to the original departure point, providing a convenient way to experience the scenic beauty and wildlife of the Shetland Islands.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Shetland Islands.
Inclusions and Experience
Visitors on the Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour can enjoy all-day unlimited travel on their selected date. Gratuities are included in the tour, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience.
The meeting point is at the Bus Stop on the Esplanade in Lerwick, directly across from the Thule Bar. The tour returns to the original departure point, ensuring a seamless journey.
Passengers can look forward to informative commentary from the bus driver, who’ll share insights and point out photo-worthy stops along the way. With a maximum capacity of 39 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience amidst the scenic Shetland landscape.
Traveler Feedback
Travelers have shared mixed feedback on the Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from 22 reviews.
Positive comments highlight the scenic views, knowledgeable and humorous drivers, and the enjoyable experience.
However, some suggested improvements, including clearer signage for booked passengers and better audio equipment for the driver’s commentary.
Travelers also noted long wait times between pickups, which they felt reduced the tour’s value.
While the tour offers a picturesque experience, some travelers recommended exploring alternative local bus options for greater convenience, especially on Sundays when some attractions are closed in the morning.
Concerns and Recommendations
Some travelers found the service lacking value due to long wait times (minimum 2 hours between pickups) on the Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour.
The tour also has limited operation on Sundays, and some attractions are closed in the morning, which can be inconvenient. Travelers have suggested considering alternative local bus options for more flexibility and convenience.
However, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods like cruise arrivals, to ensure a spot on the tour.
Scenic Highlights
What scenic highlights can visitors expect on the Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour?
As the bus navigates the picturesque Shetland Islands, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas. Along the way, they may spot seals basking on the rocky shores, Shetland ponies grazing in verdant fields, and flocks of sheep dotting the rolling hills.
The tour also provides opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the region’s dramatic coastlines, quaint fishing villages, and ancient historic sites.
With informative commentary from the knowledgeable bus driver, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this unique Scottish archipelago.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of the Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour, it’s important to plan your visit carefully. The tour operates on a limited schedule, with some attractions closed in the morning, so it’s recommended to plan your stops around the operating hours.
Plus, booking in advance can ensure you secure a spot, especially during busy periods like cruise arrivals.
Consider these tips:
- Check the tour schedule and attraction hours to plan your itinerary.
- Book your tour in advance, particularly if visiting during peak seasons.
- Be prepared for potential long wait times between pickups and plan accordingly.
Key Tips for Travelers
When planning your Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour, travelers should consider several key tips to enhance their experience.
Book your tour in advance, especially during busy periods like cruise arrivals, to ensure a spot. Plus, plan your visits around the operating hours of local attractions, such as the Scalloway museum, to make the most of your time.
While the tour offers scenic views and the chance to spot wildlife, be aware that there may be long wait times between pickups, and Sunday service is limited.
If convenience is a priority, consider exploring alternative local bus options.
Questions About Staying Here
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Bus?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on the bus. The tour allows for on-the-spot ticket purchases, giving travelers the flexibility to decide on the day of their visit.
What Are the Operating Hours of the Tour?
The tour operates between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, with pickups approximately every two hours. It runs daily, except on Sundays when service is limited and some attractions may have reduced hours.
Do the Buses Have Restrooms on Board?
The buses do not have restrooms on board. Travelers should plan accordingly, as the tour operates for approximately 1.5 hours and makes stops where passengers can use facilities. Some stops may have limited amenities available.
Is Wi-Fi Available on the Buses?
Unfortunately, the tour information does not mention whether Wi-Fi is available on the buses. It’s likely that Wi-Fi is not provided, as this service is not listed among the tour inclusions. Travelers may want to check with the tour operator to confirm the availability of onboard Wi-Fi.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions before the tour to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Worth The Stay
The Shetland Hop on Hop off Bus Tour from Lerwick offers a captivating opportunity to explore the Shetland Islands’ stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. While it’s a delightful experience, travelers should be mindful of potential wait times and limited Sunday services. With its informative commentary, scenic stops, and a chance to spot wildlife, this tour is a fantastic way to discover the unique charm of the Shetland Islands.