Shetland: one of Europe's best cruise destinations

Shetland’s tourism industry goes from strength to strength as it was announced this week that Lerwick has been recognised as one of the best destinations in Britain and Western Europe to visit by cruise ship.

Lerwick came third in the list, with Kirkwall in Orkney ranking number one and Cork, Amsterdam and Bruges completing the top five.

The Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards is based on cruise ship passenger ratings posted on the Cruise Critic website, an online cruise guide, featuring more than 350,000 cruise reviews.

“To be placed third in the category is another great accolade, bringing more international recognition that Lerwick and Shetland are providing what passengers and cruise operators want,” said Melanie Henderson, Lerwick Port Authority Cruise Manager.

Earlier this year, Shetland was named in the Lonely Planet’s top 10 must-see European destinations for 2019, the only UK location included. This latest award is proof that the islands are fast becoming a destination of choice for tourists.

“We’re thrilled that Lerwick has been recognised as one of the best places in Britain and Western Europe for cruise passengers to visit,” continued Lauren Doughton, Project Manager at Promote Shetland. “The fact that the awards are voted for by the passengers themselves, based on their positive experiences in Shetland, is testament to the warm welcome and first-class facilities they find when they arrive here.”

Cruise Critic reviews relating to Lerwick and Shetland include:

“After a half day tour of the lighthouse, Viking ruins and watching seals, we then had a walk through the town of Lerwick which shows both the beautiful old town and a new modern area.”

“Definitely the highlight of the cruise, we loved Lerwick and Shetland. Beautiful island with lovely friendly local people.”

To find out more about what to expect on a cruise visit to Shetland, including popular attractions and activities, head to the Shetland Cruise website. To find out more about Lerwick Harbour, including visiting Cruise Ships in 2019, visit the Lerwick Port Authority website.